Sigma SD1
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| I own it | I want it | I had it |
The Sigma SD1 digital SLR is a significant departure from previous SD-series DSLRs in that rather than being limited to 4MP or less, it uses a brand new 15.3MPx3 1.5x crop Foveon X3 sensor (4800 x 3200 x 3 layers). Designed as the company's flagship camera, the SD1 has a weatherproof magnesium alloy body, 3" 460k dot LCD, and new 11-point twin-cross AF system. Image processing is in the hands of a 'Dual True II' engine that promises improved speed and image quality, and the camera is compatible with the full range of Sigma lenses.
| Body type | Mid-size SLR |
| Max resolution | 4800 x 3200 |
| Effective pixels | 15 megapixels |
| Sensor size | APS-C (24 x 16 mm) |
| Sensor type | CMOS (Foveon X3) |
| Lens mount | Sigma SA Bayonet |
| Focal length mult. | 1.5× |
| Articulated LCD | Fixed |
| Screen size | 3″ |
| Screen dots | 460,000 |
| Storage types | Compact Flash (Type I, UDMA compatible) |
| USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
| Dimensions | 146 x 113 x 80 mm (5.75 x 4.45 x 3.15″) |
| GPS | None |
The SD1 is a no-frills SLR with a very basic feature set that offers exceptional image quality at low ISOs (100-400). However, it's let down by slow file write times and erratic control behaviour during this process. High ISO image quality is unremarkable, and there's no live view for tripod shooting. It's a specialist tool, but if you can live with its limitations it's capable of excellent results.
Good for: Photographers looking for exceptional low ISO image quality, and willing to spend the time processing RAW to achieve it.
Not so good for: Sports, action, or any kind or photography requiring high ISOs
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