D600 officially OUT!

[D70FAN]

Interesting replies.

So question 3 is:

Isn't the pixel density between a 16MP DX sensor and a 24MP FX sensor essentially the same? (that's sort of a rehtorical question since I was an applications engineer for immage sensors). The answer is not really as 16 x 1.5 = 24.

Any gain in iso would be in a tighter control of noise in the ADC's, and signal path, or better in-camera processing, but at this point I'm not sure how much better that would be.

And finally the sweet spot of any lens radiates from the center with diminishing returns as you move outward. This being the case I would have to believe that a DX camera would better utilize a lens built for FX sensors as the crop would eliminate the typically weaker lens perimeter.

Anyway, the bottom line is: would I expect the D600 to be a better immager than the D7000? Maybe marginally, but on the whole probably not. For sports shooting? Definately not. With similar ISO characteristics, slightly faster continuos shooting, and the extra 1.5x reach, better use of the lenses sweet spot, as well as a faster maximum shutter speed I would think the D7000 would still be a better sports camera.

[Screenclutter]

Interesting replies.

With similar ISO characteristics, slightly faster continuos shooting, and the extra 1.5x reach, better use of the lenses sweet spot, as well as a faster maximum shutter speed I would think the D7000 would still be a better sports camera.

Until reviews come out, it will be hard to know. The D7000 is two years old now, and just because the D600 is said to be a FX version of the D7000 does not mean Nikon has not also increased the processing power and efficiency for image processing and autofocus within its bodies and the sensors it uses. Already we know the D600 is much better at video (which also means autofocus improvement I presume when the mirror is up) than the D7000 so Nikon has obviously improved some of this computing power in one area.

[Rooz]

I think looking at specs to determine the iq is fraught with danger. My bet is the d600 iq will blow the d7000 out of the water. The d700 blows the d7000 out of the water so why wouldn't a brand spanking new d600 ? I think you're reasoning is somewhat sound about the sports shooter but I don't shoot ports so can't comment.

[RichNY]

Frame rate is only one aspect for shooting sports. When you want to isolate a player against a distracting background having a full frame camera with shallower DOF is definitely an advantage and frame rate doesn't come into play when shooting strobed sports like a basketball arena where you are waiting for your lights to recycle.

[D70FAN]

Thanks for all the answers guys.

I'm not saying that the D600 is a bad camera, I'm just questioning it's value in the scheme of things. If I'm a pro (sports) photog, I already have a D4, so...

But heck-fire, I've even had a cover published (in the last few years) using the D70, so the camera is still just a tool.

Believe me the D700 is still on my list... when I can afford a few new lenses. Maybe the D600 in a few years. For now the D7000 should fit the bill and intro me to video as well. For $500 more I would have jumped all over the D600. For $1K more, no.

[jcon]

I think looking at specs to determine the iq is fraught with danger. My bet is the d600 iq will blow the d7000 out of the water. The d700 blows the d7000 out of the water so why wouldn't a brand spanking new d600 ? I think you're reasoning is somewhat sound about the sports shooter but I don't shoot ports so can't comment.

Completely agree. I think the D600 will have much improved AF, IQ, ISO, to name a few. The D7000 doesn't have the new EXPEED Sensor that the D800/600 have, and they are incredible. Im always surprised at the IQ from my D800. Im seriously considering the D600 as my second body. Of course, waiting your real world samples and reviews.

[D70FAN]

Thanks again for the inputs/feedback. Not sure how they might improve the ISO, but we'll see. Like I said maybe a couple of years.

Pocket book said D7000 (with 18-105 VR) $1259 vs. ~$2700. My old large format Epson 2000 bit the dust, so new printer takes priority.

Just received the D7000... Yes it is 100 times better than my old D70 (70 X 100 = well you get the idea ). Set-up was a breeze. Lots of new (to me) options. I actually like the button locations. Very quick. Very accurate. Very sharp (at f/8). Will be fun to try the old AI (43-86 f/3.5), 50 f/1.8, and the Sigma's.

So now I'm broke, but happy.

[K1W1]

The D600 isn't going to be a wonderful sports camera the D7000 based focus system and no 3D tracking will see to that. Yes it will work but you won't see pros using it even as a second body I suspect. If I get one I'd still be relying on my D300 for sport and using the D600 either for close up shots of in low light where the D300 she no work too good (iso 3200+)

[Dread Pirate Roberts]

Jcon, I thought you had the left focusing issue on your D800 and got rid of it?

[Rooz]

i think i may skip a generation.
if my d700 bites the dust then i'll be forced to make a decision but right now, im not particularly thrilled with the d800 or 600 to be honest.