Nikon have now officially released details of the upgrade to the Nikon D70s
DSLR. The changes from the original Nikon D70 are fairly minor, with upgrades to
the AF system and some tweaks to the user interface. There is no change to the
6MP sensor. The most significant changes are:
- The Nikon D70s has a refined 5-area autofocus system now has an all-area
search priority to go along with the camera's single area, dynamic area, and
close subject priorities, improving the camera's ability to acquire focus on fast
moving subjects within the frame.
- The Nikon D70s now boasts a larger 2.0" LCD monitor, making it easier for
users to review images and access menus.
- A new remote port for the Nikon MC-DC1 electronic cable release (optional)
allows users to trigger the camera and hold the shutter open via an electronic
cable release
- A built-in Speedlight with a wider angle of coverage, supports 18mm
lenses.
- A new easier-to-read menu design in the Nikon D70s uses color-coded menus,
and a larger type-face.
- A higher capacity EN-EL3a battery offers users more pictures per charge. The
EN-EL3a battery comes with a new, smaller MH-18a battery charger. Both the new
battery and charger are included with the D70s.
While these changes are good (and some of the software improvements will be
available as a fiemware up grade for the N70), some Nikon users have been
underwhelmed by the changes. I guess they were hoping for more, or hoping for an
upgrade of the D100 which doesn't seem to be coming anytime soon either. The
original D70 was released at the end of January 2004. The D100 was released at
the end of February 2002.
The estimated street price (body only) of the Nikon D70s is $899.95, the same
as the 8MP Digital Rebel XT. With the Nikkor 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED lens the
price will be $1199.95. The Nikon D70s is expected to start shipping in May
2005.
Press
Release
6.1-Megapixel Nikon D70s Features Internal and External Refinements
to Become a Worthy Successor to the Venerable Nikon D70 Digital SLR
Camera
MELVILLE, N.Y., April 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Incorporating upgrades based on
user feedback and advancement in technologies, Nikon(R) (
http://www.nikondigital.com )
today introduced the D70s(TM) 6.1-effective megapixel digital SLR camera. The
D70s builds on the success of its popular predecessor, the D70, with multiple
internal and external refinements including an improved autofocus system, larger
LCD monitor, the addition of a remote cord port, new graphic user interface,
among several other enhancements. Designed for a broad range of consumers from
experienced and amateur photographers to beginning photo enthusiasts and
hobbyists, the D70s offers a proven track record of superior image quality,
robust performance, and advanced new features.
The
Nikon D70s maintains leadership in its class of cameras and offers tremendous
value to customers by combining various new and existing technologies into a
comprehensive feature set. Its DX format 6.1-effective megapixel CCD sensor is
optimized to deliver images with excellent sharpness and clarity. An improved
autofocus system delivers enhanced performance, especially in Dynamic area AF and
Dynamic area AF with closest subject priority modes. This combined with Nikon's
unique Dynamic Buffer technology (that allows the camera to continuously take up
to 144 pictures at a speed of three pictures per second*) makes the D70s even
more responsive when photographing fast moving subjects.
"Nikon's commitment to its customers is exemplified with the introduction of
the D70s. Nikon has taken an internationally best-selling digital SLR camera and
made it even more appealing to hobbyists and photo enthusiasts by incorporating a
range of enhancements and new features that were based largely on the feedback we
received from our customers and research findings," said Steve Heiner, general
manager of Digital SLR Systems for Nikon Inc. "The D70s now represents the best
combination of performance and value for photo enthusiasts, and offers superb
image quality, advanced speed and simple, intuitive usability. We are confident
the D70s will continue to build on the popularity of the D70."
Smart
New Enhancements
The
D70s incorporates a host of new enhancements and refinements internally and
externally, in addition to all of the advanced features and innovations found in
the D70:
- A
refined 5-area autofocus system now has an all-area search priority to go along
with the camera's single area, dynamic area, and close subject priorities,
improving the camera's ability to acquire focus on fast moving subjects within
the frame.
- The
camera now boasts a larger 2.0" LCD monitor, making it easier for users to review
images and access menus.
- A new
remote port for the MC-DC1 electronic cable release (optional) allows users to
trigger the camera and hold the shutter open via an electronic cable
release
- A
built-in Speedlight with a wider angle of coverage, supports 18mm lenses.
- A new
easier-to-read menu design in the D70s uses color-coded menus, and a larger
type-face.
- A
higher capacity EN-EL3a battery offers users more pictures per charge. The
EN-EL3a battery comes with a new, smaller MH-18a battery charger. Both the new
battery and charger are included with the D70s.
System
Versatility: DX Nikkor Lenses
The
D70s joins Nikon's current selection of digital SLR models and inherits the
popular DX format sensor and Nikon F-Mount, making it seamlessly compatible with
all AF Nikkor lenses and Nikon's exclusive DX Nikkor lenses. Designed exclusively
for use with DX Format digital SLR cameras, DX Nikkor lenses deliver a wider
picture angle, higher performance, and outstanding center-to-edge-to-corner image
quality, while realizing smaller and lighter designs. All DX Nikkor lenses have a
picture angle comparable to that of 35mm format lenses with a 1.5x factor. Since
the introduction of the DX Nikkor lenses, the series has grown to include six
lenses. These include:
- New
AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED
- New
AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 55-200mm f/4-5.6G ED
- AF-S
DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5 IF-ED
- AF-S
DX Zoom-Nikkor 17-55mm f/2.8G IF-ED
- AF-S
DX Zoom-Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED
- AF DX
Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED
Simplified Creativity: Revolutionary Built-in Speedlight with
i-TTL
Taking
its cue from the D70, the D70s' built-in Speedlight offers a level of performance
that is unrivalled in any other digital SLR camera in its class. Designed to be a
part of Nikon's growing Creative Lighting System, the D70s' built-in Speedlight
adopts Nikon's exclusive i-TTL flash control technology. In addition to normal
on-camera use, the D70s' built-in Speedlight can also be used in Commander Mode
to remotely control one group of multiple SB-600 or SB-800 Speedlights
wirelessly, offering users remarkable creative lighting control while still
maintaining point-and-shoot simplicity. Alternately, an SB-800 can be mounted on
the D70s and used as the Master Speedlight for even more control of up to three
remote groups of wireless Speedlights, with each group consisting of any number
of Nikon SB-800 or SB- 600 Speedlight units. The D70s lets you shoot at
synchronized speeds up to 1/500 second for great fill effects under brighter
light conditions, while FV Lock maintains the measured flash value while
recomposing the shot so you still achieve the appropriate flash output for the
subject.
Powerful Software: New Nikon PictureProject(TM) and PictureProject In Touch
Software is a key component of the digital photography experience, and a key
component of Nikon's Total Imaging System. After conducting exhaustive worldwide
research into customer expectations, requirements and work habits, Nikon has
developed the new PictureProject 1.5 image management and editing software. Based
entirely on a new software architecture that empowers customers of varying skill
levels to maximize their digital photography experience, Nikon PictureProject 1.5
boasts powerful features wrapped into a brand new interface that navigates
quickly and is easy to master. While PictureProject 1.5 is already a dynamic new
addition to Nikon photography, the software also supports plug-ins, allowing
users to add new features, as technology and the digital camera market evolve.
The software allows users to easily transfer images to PC's or MAC's and browse,
organize, and share them. With support for JPEG, TIFF and NEF and compressed NEF
(RAW) files, PictureProject 1.5 works in close unison with Nikon Capture 4.2 as
the ideal companion to its powerful feature set.
With
Nikon's PictureProject In Touch(TM), users can share photos without attaching
them in an email or uploading them to a website. PictureProject In Touch is a
free desktop software application, available via download on
http://www.nikonnet.com and included
with the newest version 1.5 of PictureProject(TM) software. It enables the fast,
seamless and easy transfer of pictures between a sender and one or more
recipients and can be viewed as full-screen slide shows with the click of a
button. With this powerful software, Nikon can ensure that its customers will
always keep ahead of the technology curve.
The
Nikon D70s will be available either as an Outfit or a Set. The D70s Outfit
includes the camera body, rechargeable battery, charger, new Nikon
PictureProject(TM) software, neck strap and the new high-performance AF-S DX
Nikkor 18-70mm f/3.5-4.5G IF-ED lens. The D70s Set includes all items mentioned
above except the lens. The D70s Outfit will be available for an estimated street
price of $1199.95, while the D70s Set (body only) will be available for an
estimated street price of $899.95***. The camera will ship in early May
2005.
MAJOR FEATURES OF THE NIKON D70s DIGITAL SLR
Accurate, vivid color
- 6.1
effective megapixels Nikon DX Format CCD imaging sensor produces 3,008 x
2,000-pixel images with high resolution and superbly sharp details.
- Advanced digital image processor uses advanced algorithms to optimize image
quality, while also controlling auto white balance, auto tone and color control,
as well as real-time processes to diminish digital noise and produce beautiful
long exposure shots.
- Accurate white balance achieved by Nikon's acclaimed 3D Color Matrix Meter
with 1,005-pixel for highly precise control over white balance under widely
varied lighting conditions.
High Performance and Quick Response
- Continuous shooting at 3 frames per second for a continuous burst of up to
144 pictures (When using JPEG NORMAL - Large setting, and a SanDisk SDCFH (Ultra
II), SDCFX (Extreme/Extreme III), or Lexar Media 80X WA CompactFlash(TM) card)
thanks to improved buffer memory handling, faster image processing, increased
memory card access speed and greater system bus bandwidth. (The number of
continuous shots possible in a single burst may be fewer depending on the type of
CF card used.)
- Ultra-short shutter time lag is hardly noticeable and offers very quick
response.
- Immediate power-up has the D70s ready to take pictures before your finger
can reach the shutter button.
- High-speed, high precision 5-area AF system with predictive focus tracking
and Lock-on(TM) ensures quick response and sharp focus, while an AF-assist
illuminator helps ensure top performance in dark situations.
- Fast
shutter speed with a range from 30 to 1/8,000 sec. for full creative
control.
- Fast
flash sync shutter speeds up to 1/500 sec. available for great fill-effects under
brighter light conditions.
Optimized and Predictable Results
- Seven
Automated Digital Vari-Program selections easily accessed from the Mode Dial
deliver automatic operation that optimizes white balance, sharpening, tone,
color, saturation and hue for crisp and vivid results that match the intended
shot. Selections include Auto, Portrait, Landscape, Close-up, Sports, Night
Portrait, and Night Landscape.
- Image
enhancement options optimize sharpening, contrast, tone, color, saturation and
hue while using Auto Multi Program [P], Shutter-Priority Auto [S],
[Aperture-Priority Auto A], or [Manual M] exposure modes to best match the scene
or intended use for the picture. The easy to set choices include Normal, Vivid,
Sharp, Soft, Direct print, Landscape or Custom optimization
- Optimized exposure with a choice of three TTL exposure modes, including
Nikon's acclaimed 3D Color Matrix Meter with 1,005-pixel RGB Sensor, variable
Center-Weighted Meter and choice of Spot Meters.
- Nikon's built-in iTTL automatic balanced Fill-Flash can shoot at
synchronized speeds up to 1/500 second for great fill effects when shooting in
brighter lighting conditions; compatibility within Nikon's Creative Lighting
System.
- Flash
exposure compensation; a comprehensive selection of compensation tools enable
more versatile picture taking; tools for ambient light, flash illumination and
the two combined are provided.
- New
Generation Color Reproduction System offers a choice of three color modes to
ensure the best match for the shot when operating the camera manually. Mode Ia:
Renders natural-looking skin tones out of the camera. (sRGB) Mode II: Realizes a
wider color range suited for processing or retouching. (Adobe RGB) Mode IIIa:
Renders vivid landscape and flora colors out of the camera. (sRGB)
- JPEG
and NEF Combination Filing System enables simultaneous recording of compressed
NEF (RAW) and JPEG data for the same shot to optimize and accelerate
workflow.
- Exclusive use of Compressed NEF files to maximize number of raw images
possible for each CF card used.
Creative and Versatile System for Subtle Expression
- High-Quality Nikkor lenses: The unrivalled performance of AF, AF-S and DX
Nikkor lenses expand creative possibilities to the maximum.
- Built-in auto pop-up flash features exclusive i-TTL flash control, fast
1/500 sec. flash sync shutter speed, and supports Nikon's Creative Lighting
System for wireless control of remote SB-600 and SB-800 Speedlights. Also
supports wide-angle lenses up to 18mm.
- ISO
flash shoe makes it easy to attach an SB-600 or SB-800 Speedlight directly to the
camera.
- Integrated Nikon Software Solutions: Nikon Capture 4 (optional) is a
comprehensive image editing and remote camera control package that fully supports
NEF* (compressed and uncompressed) (RAW), TIFF and JPEG data. Among other
features, the package offers Image Dust Off sensor dust and particle shade
removal control; D-Lighting for scene-specific automatic dodge and burn control;
and transformation of shots from the AF DX Fisheye-Nikkor 10.5mm f/2.8G ED lens
to ultra-wideangle images.
- Picture Project is Nikon's versatile bundled software that simplifies and
improves data transfer, as well as browsing and editing of image files. Picture
Project introduces an entirely new intuitive user interface, and supports
exclusive Nikon plug-ins for added function.
Improved Overall Performance
- Large
2 inch LCD monitor with user-friendly menus located directly below the viewfinder
displays bigger menu fonts and icons that use familiar keywords for ease of
understanding. A protective clear LCD cover is also included with the
D70s.
- Versatile LCD playback options include Single frame, Thumbnail (4 or 9
segments), Zoom playback (up to 4.7x), Slide show, Histogram indication, and
Highlight point displays with automatic image rotation for vertical shots.
- 25
Custom Settings allow you to personalize the operation of your D70s to match your
shooting style or the demands of different shooting conditions.
- Remote
control operation made available with optional ML-L3 (IR) or MC- DC1 electronic
cable release.
- Direct
printing from the D70 to any PictBridge compatible printer using the supplied USB
cable.
About Nikon
Nikon,
At the Heart of the Image(TM). Nikon Inc. is the world leader in digital imaging,
precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognized for
setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning
consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Inc. distributes the
Nikon Total Imaging System of consumer and professional digital SLR cameras,
Nikkor optics, Speedlights and System Accessories; Nikon Coolpix(R) compact
digital cameras; Coolscan(R) digital film scanners; 35mm film SLR cameras; Nikon
software products and Nikon sports and recreational optics. At the heart of every
Nikon camera is Nikon's Exclusive Feature System, making it easy for anyone to
take amazing digital pictures. Through the Nikon Spirit Initiative(TM), the
company, plays an active role in supporting aspiring and advanced photographers
through a variety of philanthropic organizations, educational programs, events
and workshops. For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visit
http://www.nikonusa.com , which links
all levels of photographers to the web's most comprehensive photo learning and
sharing communities.
* D70s
continuously takes up to 144 pictures at a speed of three pictures per second
when using JPEG NORMAL -- Large image settings, and a SanDisk(R) 256 MB Ultra II
CompactFlash(TM) card
***
Estimated selling prices listed are only an estimate. Actual prices are set by
dealers and are subject to change at any time.
SOURCE
Nikon Inc.
Where to buy the Nikon D70s
The following retailers support photo.net when you use these links to purchase
from them.
Related Reviews
Nikon D70 review
All Nikon reviews
Canon Rebel XT revivew
Robert M. Atkins (www.bobatkins.com)
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