New Sigma DP1 Merrill, Sigma DP2 Merrill and Sigma SD1 Merrill announced

Three new cameras have been announced by Sigma, named after Foveon Sensor developer Dick Merrill who died in 2008. The DP1 Merrill and DP2 Merrill now possess the same sensor at the SD1, offering three layered 12MP sensors for a unique level of colour rendition. The SD1 Merrill changes little from the standard version, offering the same sensor and aesthetics.

The DP1 and DP2 have both changed quite dramatically, receiving an overhaul in looks and specifications as mentioned previously. Where the previous incarnations used the same sensor as the SD15, the Merrill versions use a 4800 x 3200 3 layer Foveon X3 Sensor as seen in the SD1. Lenses on both models are also altered, with the SD1 Merrill using a 19mm f2.8 lens and the DP2 Merrill offering a 45mm f2.8 lens.

Both also boast an altered design, presumably partially prompted by the sensor change, looking far smoother and sleeker than the originals. As the body design had barely changed from the DP1 to the DP1x it comes as no surprise this step has been taken. Although it has yet to be confirmed it appears there’s no built-in flash on either model.

The SD1 Merrill simply carries the insignia of the new range at the bottom of the LCD screen but otherwise offers nothing different from the previous incarnation. As no prices or release dates have been announced it’s difficult to determine what the benefit will be of this new model, but a number of websites are reporting a price drop of around a third, putting the SD1 Merrill at around the £2,000 mark.

As both the DP1 and DP2 models have offered some impressive results but flawed ergonomics a fresh look may well elevate them both into more desirable offerings. For more information on Sigma head to the Sigma Website.