14 DAY TRIAL // As most expected, Nikon has announced today the latest incarnation of the company's most advanced technologies in the form of the new D700, a full-frame version of the D300. Apart from the main dish, the manufacturer has also introduced the new SB-900 Speedlight and two perspective control lenses, the PC-E Micro NIKKOR 45mm f/2.8D ED and PC-E Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/2.8D.
Let's start off with the D700, which is basically a D3 with a smaller form factor. The new digital single lens reflex camera incorporates an FX-format CMOS 35mm full-frame sensor with the same resolution as the aforementioned D3, namely 12.1 megapixels. The imaging solution is joined by the Expeed processor, which ensures 14-bit A/D conversion and 16-bit processing pipeline for the same performance as the D3.
Shooting speed in continuous mode is the same 5fps when using a single 2500mAh EN-EL4a and 8 fps with the optional MB-D10 battery pack.
All the other goodies found in the D3, including here the 51-point MultiCAM3500 AF system, DX Crop Mode, Live View with contrast-detect AF and the 3-inch TFT monitor, Virtual Horizon level indicator during Live View, are also present in the new D700, which raises an interesting question. Why would one buy the considerably more expensive D3 (priced at around $5,000) when the D700 carries a MSRP of $2,600 (the press release mentions the price in Euros, but it's likely that the US price is the same) and the optional MB-D10 battery pack is available for around $230?
Next in line is the SB-900 Speedlight, the successor of the five year old SB-800. The new flagship model boasts a completely redesigned control system, which looks easier to use compared to the SB-800. Wireless fans will surely appreciate the dedicated mode button for remote and master.
However, design is not the only thing changed compared to the SB-800 as there's a new and improved booster circuit for high-speed recycling and a built-in thermal sensing system that protects the unit against overheating. An interesting addition is the ability to choose between three illumination patterns (centre-weighted/standard/even) for better control over the flash light.
While there's no information on the actual price, we do know that the SB-900 will be available as of 25th July 2008.
Last but not least, there are the two PC-E lenses joining the PC-E 24mm f/3.5D ED launched at the end of January 2008.
Here's a list with the major features of both lenses.
Nano Crystal Coat minimizes ghosting and flare for fine image reproduction Superior optical performance with minimized distortion and chromatic aberration Electromagnetic diaphragm enables auto aperture control (for compatible camera bodies) Preset aperture possible with aperture ring and aperture stop-down button Macro-shooting capability down to 0.25 m and 0.39 m for PC-E Micro NIKKOR 45mm f/2.8D ED and PC-E Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/2.8D respectively (at 1/2x) Nine-blade rounded diaphragm Superior protection against dust and moisture.
The PC-E Micro NIKKOR 45mm f/2.8D ED will be available starting July 11, 2008, for 1800 Euros, while the PC-E Micro NIKKOR 85mm f/2.8D ED is slated for August and will carry the same MSRP (manufacturer suggested retail price).
