...from both, though not in C1 LE, since as I previously shared, I
don't like the IQ (or workflow) at all. I used Aperture and, rarely,
Lightroom to evaluate the files. They were softer and, thus, less
prone to moire by a small degree than D70/s files, but in terms of
noise performance and dynamic range, I didn't find them significantly
different from my D70 files at all. Thus, I didn't end up keeping
either, instead picking up a D80, which was an improvement in almost
every way, but still trailed the Canon in terms of highlight headroom
and shadow detail beyond ISO 500. At lower ISO values, there are far
fewer differences and, in fact, I prefer the Nikons for their faster
handling, better UI and superior metering, which make for better
casual use cameras. Which is the reason I got a D80 to begin with
(D70 was a stinker because of too-frequent moire and other aliasing
artifacts resulting from the too-weak AA filter).
With CCD Nikons, there is sufficient shadow noise beyond ISO 500 to
make the extraction of useful shadow detail (luminance detail)
limited at best. Even with my D80, I find I must simply crush shadows
rather than lift them in order to minimize the appearance of grain in
prints. On the other hand, until pattern noise become intrusive (ISO
1600 on the 30D with tungsten light and mild underexposure or
daylight with severe underexposure), the Canon XXD cameras,
generally, yield appreciably greater shadow luminance detail, along
with more chroma noise which can largely be minimized, if not
eliminated, without detriment to the overall appearance of the
shadow. The Canons also give 1/3 to 2/3 more recoverability of
highlight detail thanks to lossless compression of RAW data.
Meanwhile, Nikon's compression scheme for NEFs in the DXX cameras
involves throwing away highlight data determined (by the camera's
algorithms) to be imperceptible, limiting the ability to recover
highlights. In short, beyond ISO 500 the XXD Canons provide files
that are much more flexible for post-processing than do the DXX
Nikons because of cleaner, more detailed shadows and greater
highlight recoverability.
That's my experience through the 30D/D80 generation, which are my
most recent firsthand experience with the respective brands.
