PMA 2010: Sigma announces DP1x and DP2s

By Jamison Cush and Allison Johnson

Sigma rolled out the DP1x and DP2s at PMA 2010, updates to their existing DP1 and DP2, respectively. The changes are relatively minor, with each model seeing various tweaks to the image processer, firmware, bundled software, and autofocus speed. We snagged a couple of hands-on photos of functional, pre-production models at the Sigma booth.

Sigma DP2s
The 14 megapixel DP2s is a successor to the DP2, which hit the market last year. The mid-size DP2s features a FOVEON X3 CMOS image sensor and incorporates a new autofocus algorithm for a speedier AF. Also new is a Power Save Mode. The new mode reduces battery consumption, which Sigma claims allows users to snap more pictures per single battery charge. The pre-production DP2s pictured below has been fitted with a lens attachment and hood. The DP2 features a 24.2mm (41mm equivalent) f/2.8 lens.

Sigma has incorporated a noise reduction algorithm that reduces Chroma and Luminance noise for images taken at ISO 400 and higher. Mac users will also find new features with the DP2s, including batch white balance settings and JPEG conversion, which were previously both PC exclusive.

Finally, the DP2s sports a new rear design that helps users quickly recognize and adjust the unit's controls through the addition of red markings and icons.

Sigma DP1x
The DP1x is very similar to its predecessor, the DP1. Sigma's main addition to the 14 megapixel high-end compact is the "TRUE II" image processing engine, the same processor found in the DP2. Sigma claims that "TRUE II" improves image processing time and provides a speedier autofocus when compared with the DP2.

The user interface has also been simplified and is now more in line with the DP2 series. This means the set up menus have been overhauled and a quick set button has been added.

Both the DP2s and DP1x feature a 20.7x13.8mm image sensor, which Sigma touts as "approximately seven to twelve times larger than the 1/1.8 inch to 1/2.5 inch image sensors used in ordinary compact digital cameras," or roughly DSLR-sized.

Five new Sigma lenses
In addition to the new compact cameras, Sigma rolled out five new lenses to cover the needs of portrait and nature photographers alike. Here's a roundup of the new equipment:

• APO 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM super telephoto
• 17-50mm f/2.8 EX DC OS HSM standard zoom
• 8-16mm f/4.5-5.6 DC HSM ultra wide angle zoom
• 70-200mm f/2.8 EX DG OS HSM wide aperture telephoto zoom
• 85mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM prime

We picked up the very compact 8-16mm for a couple of photos. Designed for an APS-C sized sensor, it fit easily into my hand. It offers up to 121.2 degrees of a wide angle of view.

We'll have more on the whole line of lenses and digital cameras (and a guest appearance by one of Sigma's monster telephoto lenses) in our PMA wrap-up.

Pricing and availability
Sigma did not announce pricing or availability for the DP2s, DP1x, or the five new lenses. However, the previous models, the DP2 and DP1 are listed on Amazon for $650 and $600, respectively, at the time of this announcement.