14 DAY TRIAL // Nikon have announced their final addition to the DSLR lineup and as expected, it is a hybrid between the D70s and the D200.
The new camera incorporates a 10.2 effective megapixel DX Format CCD image sensor, resulting in images with a resolution of 3,872 x 2,592 pixels.
Other improvements include 3D Colour Matrix Metering II and the 11-area AF system.
Compared to the D70/D70s, the fastest shutter speed has decreased from 1/8000 to 1/4000 and the X-sync speed has suffered the same faith, from 1/500 to 1/200.
Nikon's exclusive 3D Colour Matrix Metering II ensures accurate automatic exposure control, even in the most challenging lighting conditions. The system offers the added advantage of evaluating, rather than simply measuring the true content of each scene. Variable centre-weighted metering and spot metering are also available, as are exposure compensation and auto exposure bracketing.
Refined 11-area AF system packs the same number of focus areas available for the professional D2 series into a space-efficient system that features fast, precise operation. Each of the 11 focus areas can be used individually, the centre sensor can be switched to wide-frame operation for broader coverage and new Auto-area AF mode measures all 11 focus areas. The system automatically determines which are on the primary subject and activates only those areas.
ISO AUTO mode automatically adjusts sensitivity between ISO 100 -1600 to maximize available light and achieve optimal exposure. Sensitivity can also be set manually between ISO 100 - 1600 in steps of 1/3 EV, plus HI-0.3, HI-0.7 and HI-1. Three levels of High ISO Noise Reduction are available when shooting at high ISO settings. Long Exposure Noise Reduction is also available when shooting at shutter speeds of 8 seconds or slower.
A large new 2.5-inch, 230,000-dot high-resolution LCD provides an ultra-wide 170-degree viewing angle from all directions. Images can be previewed easily thanks to a new dedicated zoom button which helps assess sharpness up to 25 times magnification.
A new RGB histogram display also assists when evaluating exposures with greater precision. The D80 boasts built-in Standard or Advanced Pictmotion slideshow options, including style selections that control transitions and background music.
Similarly to the D200, a new Multiple Exposure option creates a single image from up to 3 consecutive exposures to offer a similar effect of that produced with film.
Another important improvement is the possibility to attach a Nikon grip, a feature absent in the D70/D70s and present in the D200.
The D80 is priced at ?699.99, or $999 (body only) and for the body and the new kit lens, 18-135mm, Nikon says the RRP (recommended retail price) is ?949.99.
