SIGMA dp3 Quattro Compact Digital Camera
Newly designed fixed 50mm F2.8 lens
Newly designed Foveon sensor
Of the trio, the Sigma dp3 Quattro's lens is the most complex. It has ten elements in eight groups, but a coarser seven-bladed iris aperture than the nine-bladed apertures in its siblings. Focusing is possible to as close as 22.6 centimeters, and maximum magnification is 1:3. With lens, the dp3 Quattro has a body depth of 4.0 inches, making it the bulkiest of the three cameras. Weight hasn't yet been disclosed for this model.
Sigma dp3 Quattro review -- Sensor
Processor. Handling output from the new image sensor, there's also a brand-new TRUE III image processor. We don't yet have any information as to how much of a performance improvement it brings.
Autofocus. The dp3 Quattro uses a nine-point contrast-detection autofocus system. Three AF point sizes are available, and the focus point can also be moved freely around the frame. Face detection is provided, as is a focus lock function.
Sensitivity. The Sigma dp3 Quattro offers sensitivities ranging from ISO 100 to 6400 equivalents in 1/3 EV steps. The whole range is available under automatic control, courtesy of configurable high and low limits.
Exposure. There are a choice of just four exposure modes in the dp3 Quattro, just the way experienced shooters like it-- Program, Aperture-priority, Shutter-priority, and Manual.
Exposures are determined using evaluative, center-weighted average or spot metering, and +/-3.0 EV of exposure compensation is available in 1/3 EV increments. There's also a three-stop auto-bracketing function within the same range. An AE lock function is available.
Shutter speeds vary from 1/2,000 to 30 seconds, although the entire range may not be available depending on your chosen aperture, suggesting that the iris itself is used to time the exposure.
Creative. Among the dp3 Quattro's creative options are a choice of 11 color modes and 10 white balance modes, with the latter including Color Temperature, Flash, and Custom modes.
Connectivity. The Sigma dp3 Quattro's connectivity options couldn't be much simpler -- USB data (presumably 2.0 High Speed), and a cable release switch.
Power. The dp3 Quattro draws power from a BP-51 lithium-ion rechargeable battery pack. No information on battery life had been provided at press time.