Sigma dp3 Quattro

February 10, 2015 | Mark Goldstein | Digital Compact Cameras | Comment |

The Sigma dp3 Quattro compact camera incorporates a newly developed Foveon X3 direct image sensor and a 75mm lens f/2.8 lens. When the dedicated conversion lens FT-1201 (optional) is attached to the front of the lens, it magnifies the focal length of the lens by 1.2 times. Pricing and availability of the Sigma dp3 Quattro are yet to be announced.

Sigma UK Press Release

Reinvention of camera, reinvention of DP

SIGMA dp3 Quattro

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the new generation of high image quality compact camera, the “SIGMA dp3 Quattro” that incorporates a newly developed Foveon X3 direct image sensor (generation name: “Quattro”).

Unique and without peer among image sensors, the Foveon direct image sensor is similar to traditional color film in that its multiple layers capture all of the information that visible light transmits. Along with Sigma’s proprietary image processing technology, this sensor produces incredible resolution, precise gradation, gorgeous color, breathtaking realism with a 3D feel. In other words, full-bodied image quality.

The “SIGMA dp3 Quattro” incorporates a high performance 50mm F2.8 (equivalent to a 75mm lens on a 35mm SLR) lens, which is optimized for the Quattro sensor to maximize the sensor performance, enabling sharp rendering performance from the maximum aperture. The lens offers enhanced macro functionality, making the camera perfect for quality macro shooting. When the dedicated conversion lens FT-1201 (optional) is attached to the front of the lens, it magnifies the focal length of the lens by 1.2 times.

With the release of the “SIGMA dp3 Quattro”, photographers can suit cameras to each photography style; “SIGMA dp1 Quattro” for wide angle photography, “SIGMA dp2 Quattro” for standard photography and “SIGMA dp3 Quattro” for mid-telephoto and macro range photography.

SIGMA dp3 Quattro

Launch: TBD

UPC Code:0085126-931179

With every element optimized for lens and sensor performance, this camera is simple yet powerful

To deliver full-bodied image quality with all of its rich and colorful detail, we rethought and optimized every element of the camera, including the ultra-high-resolution sensor, the top-performance lens, and every component involved in motion and operation. Unchanged from the first generation is a key element of the specification, the fixed focal length lens, which we selected as the optimal way to deliver the highest possible level of image quality.

The dp is able to process high volumes of image data at a level similar to that of a high-end DSLR, and the shape, weight, layout, and other camera elements all come together in a compact body to deliver outstanding image quality. In addition, the dp offers superior handling and highly intuitive operation. In summary, these features allow the photographer to concentrate fully on photography itself, leveraging the camera’s potential to produce outstanding images.

In everyday life, the dp series lets photographers find unexpected opportunities for experiencing emotion and enjoying photography and personal expression in exciting new ways. It is an outwardly simple yet extremely powerful embodiment of Sigma’s philosophy of photography.

[Key Features]

The world’s only image capture system to use vertical color separation technology

Leveraging the light absorption characteristics of silicon, the sensor comprises three layers of photodiodes, each at a different depth within the silicon and each corresponding to a different RGB color. Since it is the only sensor to use this superior vertical color separation technology, it is also the world’s only direct image sensor.

The Foveon direct image sensor captures color vertically, recording hue, value, and chroma accurately and completely for each pixel, enabling the expression of rich gradation and tone. Moreover, there is no low-pass filter needed to correct the interference caused by a color filter array, unlike the data from other sensors, which requires artificial interpolation to “fill in” missing colors. The data from the Foveon direct image sensor is complete with light and color information for every single pixel.

Newly developed Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor

The SIGMA dp3 Quattro incorporates a newly developed Foveon X3 direct image sensor (generation name: “Quattro”).  The new sensor structure features a pixel ratio of 1:1:4 from the bottom, middle to top layer. The Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor is able to detect a broad range of light wavelengths. While the top layer captures both brightness and color information, the middle and bottom layers with their larger surface area capture color information only. During the image data processing stage, the brightness data captured in the top layer is applied to the top, middle, and bottom layers, resulting in brightness and color data for each individual pixel.

Retaining the principle of the three-layer structure where colors are divided vertically, by applying the brightness data captured in the top layer to the layers below, high resolution and high-speed for broad data processing required are achieved.

Equivalent to 39 megapixel high resolution

A conventional color sensor captures resolution information through green megapixels, which means the information it can contain is only 50% of the whole pixels. On the other hand, the new Quattro sensor captures resolution information with the whole top layer. It holds twice as much resolution compared to conventional color sensors. 19.6 megapixel resolution information of the top layer achieves high resolution equivalent to 39 megapixels.

TRUE III image processing engine

The new dp series cameras feature the newly developed TRUE (Three-layer Responsive Ultimate Engine) III. This image processing engine has evolved in pace with our Foveon direct image sensor and incorporates all of the image processing expertise we have developed over the years. Thanks to new refinements, it is the ideal engine for processing the rich and complex image data produced by the new-generation Foveon X3 Quattro direct image sensor. Our proprietary algorithm makes possible ultrafast processing of an immense volume of image data without any deterioration of the final images. The result is high-definition, 3D-like photographs with outstandingly rich color detail.

High performance 50mm F2.8 lens

The lens incorporates a Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass element and a glass mold aspherical lens to minimize every type of optical aberration. The superior telecentric optical design improves image quality throughout the frame and maximizes the sensor’s ability by passing on information about subjects to the sensor. The lens has a minimum focusing distance of 22.6cm (8.9”) and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3, which can offer quality macro shooting.

Magnesium Body

A solid and lightweight magnesium alloy is incorporated in the exterior. With rigidity and strength, the body is highly reliable and superior as a tool for photography.

Quick Set Menu

The Quick Set (QS) Menu which consists of the 8 most commonly used functions such as ISO and White Balance can be easily displayed by pressing the QS button. Using the Selector, the Front Dial and the Rear Dial, change of the settings can be made in no time. It allows photographers to change the menu content and the order depending on their preferences.

Auto Focus

The SIGMA dp3 Quattro features a “9 point select mode” which can select the desired focusing point from 9 different frames and “Free move mode” which can move the desired point as you like. “Face Detection AF” prioritizes focus on the face of the subject when detected by the sensor. Moreover “AF Limit Mode” which adjusts the range of auto focusing and “Speed Priority AF” which offers faster focus adjustment by stopping the live view can be selected to increase the speed of the auto focusing. By selecting “AF+MF mode”, the focus can be adjusted manually after verifying the AF by rotating the focus ring. The SIGMA dp3 Quattro has an AF auxiliary light inside, which enables auto focus shooting in a low light environment.

Manual Focus

Manual Focus is available for use when autofocus or focus lock is not desired. It is possible to use the focus ring for focusing just like an SLR camera. It is also possible to magnify the display to ensure precise focusing.

14-bit RAW data

RAW data records information of light captured by the Quattro sensor. 14-bit (16384 tones) signal processing is incorporated when the analog output signal is transformed to a digital signal, achieving photography data with excellent tones and smooth gradation of subjects.

RAW data incorporates lossless compression that prevents data from degradation. By processing images using SIGMA Photo Pro, it is possible to create images with natural balance like no other.

RAW processing inside the camera body

RAW data (X3F file) taken with the SIGMA dp3 Quattro can be processed and saved as a JPEG inside the camera body without using a PC. Exposure correction, white balance, color mode and aspect ratio can be adjusted by checking them on the LCD monitor.

SUPER HIGH size with 39 megapixel high resolution

The SIGMA dp3 Quattro has High size and Low size to select from depending on the purpose of the photography. High size gets the best performance out of the image sensor both with RAW data and JPEG and Low size focuses more on the number of images that can be recorded. With both of the sizes, simultaneous recording of RAW and JPEG is possible. Moreover, for JPEG recording, SUPER HIGH, suitable for larger prints, or SUPER LOW, suitable for SNS uploads, can also be selected to accommodate photographers’ various needs.

Capable of 7 frames continuous shooting

A large volume buffer memory enables the camera to capture up to 7 RAW images per sequence in continuous shooting mode in High size. Using high speed data transfer and processing, the SIGMA dp3 Quattro features a continuous shooting speed of up to 3.7 frames per second. In addition, depending on the situation, it is possible to capture up to 4.5 frames per second and up to 12 images per sequence in continuous shooting mode in Low size.

Aspect Ratio

The aspect ratio of 3:2 is set as standard however 6 different aspect ratios are available including 1:1, 21:9, similar to those of wide screens used in cinemas, as well as 7:6, similar to those of 6x7 cameras, depending on your photography needs. Images recorded as RAW format can be changed to different ratios in SIGMA Photo Pro.

Electric Level

An electric level that is useful in determining composition can be displayed. The camera’s horizontal and vertical directions are displayed while shooting.

10 White Balance options

In addition to the Auto (Default) option that allows the camera to automatically determine the appropriate white balance adjustments, Auto (Lighting Source Priority) option is incorporated. This option allows the camera to adjust white balance while valuing the color and atmosphere of light source. 10 options are available and it is also possible to adjust white balance based on the image incorporated, and to set the amount of color temperature (Kelvin). Moreover, each white balance mode can be fine-tuned, enabling detailed correction of white balance and creative work with a filter effect.

More preset Color Mode options

Color Mode can adjust rendering and contrast to best suit each photography scene. With the SIGMA dp3 Quattro, 4 preset Color Modes are added including “Cinema”, which reduces saturation and emphasizes shadows to recreate an image like in a cinema and “Sunset Red” which emphasizes red color rendering, and expresses the scenes, such as sunsets, more impressively. True artistic expression has become easier than ever.

Monochrome options

With Filtering Effect contrast can be changed as if the images are taken using a color filter for black and white photography, and with Toning Effect color tones can be adjusted according to preferences such as WARM, COLD and SEPIA, so that photographers can create more impressive image of subjects.

Overexposure Correction

Blown-out highlights caused by overexposure can be corrected, based on the gradation information obtained through the arrangement of pixels on the sensor, to minimize loss of detail. In addition, by utilizing that gradation information, it is possible to expand the dynamic range while processing RAW files.

ISO Sensitivity can be set by 1/3 Step

ISO sensitivity can be set from ISO 100 to ISO 6400. By setting the range to 1/3 EV steps from the default 1 EV steps, it is possible to set the sensitivity to ISO 125 or ISO 160. ISO AUTO, where the camera automatically sets the ISO sensitivity according to brightness of the shooting environment, enables you to set the upper limit and lower limit depending on your shooting style.

Exclusive Sigma Photo Pro software

SIGMA Photo Pro software makes it possible to process RAW data instinctively. With an easy operation like moving sliders left and right while looking at the photographed image, your desired expression can be achieved. By changing modes, this software helps produce the stunning tones and gradation for which the Foveon X3 Quattro sensor is famed. In addition, the software also makes possible monochrome photographs of impressive depth.

SD card

The SIGMA dp3 Quattro adopts the SD Card (SD, SDHC, SDXC compatible) which is compact and easy to carry. Moreover, since it is compatible with SDHC and SDXC’s UHS-I standard, large volume data can also be recorded with high speed.

Large, highly visible 3.0” TFT color LCD Monitor

The SIGMA dp3 Quattro features a 3.0 inch TFT color monitor which ensures great visibility even outside in the daytime. This approximately 920,000 pixel resolution LCD monitor benefits from a wide viewing angle, making it easy to capture detail and to check focusing and composition.

Hot Shoe

The SIGMA dp3 Quattro is equipped with a hot shoe, allowing use of the dedicated external flashgun EF-140S (optional) as well as SIGMA electronic flashguns for SD series such as EF-610 DG Super (optional) and EF-610 DG ST (optional).

Dedicated Cable Release

The dedicated cable release (CR-31) (optional) allows release of the shutter without touching the camera by connecting it to the camera’s USB terminal. It is useful when releasing the shutter from a distance or with a slow shutter speed, as well as to prevent image blur.

Dedicated Lens Hood

The dedicated bayonet lens hood LH4-01 (optional) can be attached to block out extraneous light. Moreover, the extension hood can also be added to ensure an even greater shading effect.

Filters

Attaching Sigma’s dedicated 58mm filters such as the SIGMA WR CIRCULAR PL FILTER to the camera body extends the shooting possibilities. * 58mm filters are sold separately

Copyright information can be attached

“Photographer” and “Copyright” information can be saved in the Exif data when shooting. Respectively, it is possible to enter up to 48 single-byte characters and symbols each in “Photographer” and “Copyright”. The attached information can be checked on the Copyright Information screen and in the “Image Information Window” in SIGMA Photo Pro and other software compatible with Exif data.

Dedicated Conversion Lens FT-1201 (Optional)

When the dedicated conversion lens (optional) is attached to the front of the lens, it magnifies the focal length of the lens by 1.2 times (60mm / equivalent to 90mm on a 35mm format), and does not change the f/2.8 aperture value. It consists of 4 ultra-high quality lens elements in 3 groups, and maintains excellent rendering performance while offering a different focal length and therefore more shooting possibilities.

LCD View Finder LVF-01 (Optional)

By attaching it to the LCD display of the dp Quattro cameras, the LCD viewfinder cuts off outside light. It magnifies the LCD display 2.5 times and allows photographers to check the focusing more easily.

It is exclusively designed for Quattro series and achieves clear visibility by incorporating a high performance lens and coating. Similar to the viewfinder of a DSLR, it is possible to hold it stably, thus reducing camera shake, and look at the detail of the image. Its diopter adjustment range is from -2 to +1.

[Individual Specification]

Focal Length

50mm

35mm Equivalent Focal Length

Approx.75mm

Lens F number

F2.8~F16

Number of Diaphragm Blades

7 Blades

Lens Construction

10 Elements in 8 Groups

Shooting Range

22.6cm~∞, LIMIT Mode (It is possible to choose Macro, Portrait and Scenery.)

Maximum Magnification Shooting

1:3

Dimensions

161.4mm/6.4"(W), 67mm/2.6"(H), 101.8mm/4.0 "(D)

Weight

465g/ 16.4 oz. (without battery and memory card)

Image Sensor

Foveon X3 Direct Image Sensor (CMOS)

Image Sensor Size

23.5×15.7mm

Color Photo Detectors

Effective Pixels: Approx.29MP

T (Top):5,424×3,616 / M (Middle):2,712×1,808 / B (Bottom):2,712×1,808

Total Pixels: Approx.33MP

Storage Media

SD Card, SDHC Card, SDXC Card

File Format

Lossless compression RAW data (14-bit), JPEG (Exif2.3), RAW+JPEG

JPEG Image Quality

FINE、NORMAL、BASIC

Aspect Ratio

21:9,  16:9,  3:2,  4:3,  7.6,  1:1

Number of Recording Pixels

RAW

 

HIGH

T:5,424×3,616 / M:2,712×1,808 / B:2,712×1,808

 

LOW

T:2,704×1,808 / M:2,704×1,808 / B:2,704×1,808

JPEG

[21:9]

SUPER-HIGH

7,680×3,296

 

HIGH

5,424×2,328

 

LOW

2,704×1,160

 

S-LO

1,920×816

[16:9]

SUPER-HIGH

7,680×4,320

 

HIGH

5,424×3,048

 

LOW

2,704×1,520

 

S-LO

1,920×1,080

[3:2]

SUPER-HIGH

7,680×5,120

 

HIGH

5,424×3,616

 

LOW

2,704×1,808

 

S-LO

1,920×1,280

[4:3]

SUPER-HIGH

6,816×5,120

 

HIGH

4,816×3,616

 

LOW

2,400×1,808

 

S-LO

1,696×1,280

[7:6]

SUPER-HIGH

6,352×5,120

 

HIGH

4,480×3,616

 

LOW

2,224×1,808

 

S-LO

1,584×1,280

[1:1]

SUPER-HIGH

5,120×5,120

 

HIGH

3,616×3,616

 

LOW

1,808×1,808

 

S-LO

1,280×1,280

ISO Sensitivity

ISO100~ISO6400 (1/3 steps for appropriate sensitivity), AUTO: High limit, low limit setting is possible between ISO100~ISO6400. When using with flash, it changes depending on the low limit setting.

White Balance

10 types (Auto, Auto (Lighting Source Priority), Daylight, Shade, Overcast, Incandescent, Fluorescent, Color Temperature, Flash, Custom)

Color Mode

11 types (Standard, Vivid, Neutral, Portrait, Landscape, Cinema, Sunset Red, Forest Green, FOV Classic Blue, FOV Classic Yellow, Monochrome)

Auto Focus Type

Contrast Detection Type

AF Point

9 points select mode, Free move mode (It is possible to change the size of Focus Frame to Spot, Regular and Large.) Face Detection AF mode

Focus Lock

Shutter release halfway-down position (AF lock can be done by AE lock button from menu setting)

Manual Focus

Focus Ring Type

Metering Systems

Evaluative Metering, Center-Weighted Average Metering, Spot Metering

Exposure Control System

(P) Program AE (Program Shift is possible), (S) Shutter Speed Priority AE, (A) Aperture Priority AE, (M) Manual

Exposure Compensation

±3EV (1/3 stop increments)

AE Lock

AE lock button

Auto Bracketing

Appropriate, under, over; 1/3EV steps up to ±3EV for appropriate exposure

Shutter Speed

1/2000* - 30sec. (*Depending on the aperture value, shutter speed changes)

Drive Modes

Single, Continuous, Self Timer (2sec. /10sec.) Interval timer

LCD Monitor Type

TFT color LCD monitor

Monitor Size

3.0 inches

LCD Pixels

Approx. 920,000 Pixels

LCD Monitor Language

English/ Japanese/ German/ French/ Spanish/Italian/ Chinese (Simplified)/

Chinese (Traditional)/ Korean/ Russian/ Nederlands/ Polski/ Português/

Dansk/ Svenska/ Norsk/ Suomi

Interfaces

USB (USB2.0), Cable Release Switch

Power

Li-ion Battery Pack BP-51, Battery Charger BC-51, AC Adapter SAC-6 (with DC Connector CN-21) (Optional)

Battery Life

Approx. 200 (+25℃)

Accessories

Lens Cap (on the camera) / Hot shoe cover (on the camera) / Strap / Li-ion Battery BP-51 (2 pieces) / Battery Charger BC-51 / Battery Charger Cable / USB Cable / Instruction Manual

 

[Optional Accessories]

ELECTRONIC FLASH : EF-140S SA-STTL

This compact design flashgun has a maximum Guide Number of 14 (ISO100 / m).

UPC Code: 0085126-930288

 

LCD VIEW FINDER : LVF-01

By attaching it to the LCD display of the SIGMA dp Quattro cameras, the LCD viewfinder cuts off outside light. It magnifies the LCD display 2.5 times and allows photographers to check the focusing more easily. Its diopter adjustment range is from -2 to +1.

UPC Code: 0085126-931209

 

Dedicated Conversion Lens : FT-1201

The conversion lens is exclusively designed for the SIGMA dp3 Quattro and when it is attached to the front of the lens, it magnifies the focal length of the lens by 1.2 times. It consists of 4 ultra-high quality lens elements in 3 groups, and maintains excellent rendering performance.

UPC Code: 0085126-931315

 

Hood Set

Exclusively for the SIGMA dp3 Quattro, the Extension Hood (HE1-01) can be used in combination with Lens Hood (LH4-01) on the SIGMA dp3 Quattro to obtain an even better shading effect.

UPC Code:  0085126-931360

 

LENS HOOD LH4-01

This lens hood blocks out extraneous light and reduces flare and ghosting. It can be attached to the tip of the lens easily.

UPC Code : 0085126-930516

[HE1-01] EXTENSION HOOD HE1-01

This long extension hood is for the SIGMA dp3 Quattro and fits onto lens hood LH4-01.

UPC Code : 0085126-931353

 

CABLE RELEASE SWITCH : CR-31

This cable release allows releasing the shutter without touching the camera by connecting it to camera USB terminal. It is useful when attaching the camera to a tripod, and releasing the shutter from a distance, or slow shutter. (Cable length: Approximately 1m)

UPC Code : 0085126-930271

 

CAMERA CASE : HC-21

This jacket type camera case can be attached to the camera while photographing. It perfectly fits the camera, which improves the usability of the camera.

UPC Code : 0085126-930509

 

Battery Charger : BC-51

The dedicated Li-ion battery “BP-51” is supplied with the SIGMA dp3 Quattro.

* AC cable varies depending on the country. Please use a suitable AC cable.

UPC Code : 0085126-930400

Li-ion Battery : BP-51

This is dedicated Li-ion battery, supplied with the SIGMA dp3 Quattro.

UPC Code : 0085126-930394

AC Adapter : SAC-6

It is possible to power the SIGMA dp3 Quattro from a wall outlet using the provided AC Adapter (SAC-6). This helps when using your camera for an extended period of time or connecting the camera to a computer. AC Adapter SAC-6 is used together with DC connector CN-21. DC connector CN-21 is supplied with AC Adapter SAC-6.

UPC Code : 0085126-930301

SIGMA WR PROTECTOR 58mm

Protector is developed to protect the lens surface from dirt and dust as well as scratches. It is an ideal filter for regular use as it is completely colorless so does not affect color reproduction. WR type is water-repellent and antistatic, enabling easy handling for shooting and maintenance.

UPC Code : 0085126-930929

SIGMA PROTECTOR 58mm

Protector is developed to protect the lens surface from dirt and dust as well as scratches. It is an ideal filter for regular use as it is completely colorless so does not affect color reproduction.

UPC Code : 0085126-931056

SIGMA WR UV 58mm

UV filter prevents the bluish tone that generates when the weather is fine, by absorbing ultraviolet rays. It is effective in most situations, such as landscape, portrait and general photography on a sunny day. It is also an ideal filter for regular use as it is completely colorless so does not affect color reproduction. WR type is water-repellent and antistatic, enabling easy handling for shooting and maintenance.

UPC Code : 0085126-930660

SIGMA WR CIRCULAR PL 58mm

Circular PL filter removes the reflection of water surface and glass windows, and increases the contrast in landscape photography. WR type is water-repellent and antistatic, enabling easy handling for shooting and maintenance.

UPC Code : 0085126-930790

CAMERA BAG:CB-31

The camera bag dedicated for the SIGMA dp Quattro is a single shoulder type and convenient for carrying the camera. It can store three dp Quattro cameras. The bottom of the bag is designed to fit comfortably to your body when carrying. This compact and light-weight bag also has pockets for accessories such as batteries and flashguns.

UPC Code : 0085126-931216

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