Nikon confirm Sony make D3X image sensor
Posted: Tue Dec 09, 2008 9:50 pm
Listed in Nikon DPR D3 Forum and found on http://www.robgalbraith.com/bins/conten ... -9319-9802" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;In response to questions we and others had posed to Nikon USA about the imager in the D3X - both its origin and what technical features might set it apart from the imager in the Sony DSLR-A900 - the company has crafted a response. In it, they acknowledge that Sony is the manufacturer of the D3X's 24.39 million image pixel CMOS sensor, but go on to say it's a "unique sensor design" that was "developed expressly for the D3X."
The full text of the response is below:
The Nikon D3X’s 24.5-megapixel FX-format (35.9 x 24.0mm) CMOS sensor was developed expressly for the D3X in accordance with Nikon’s stringent engineering requirements and performance standards, with final production executed by Sony. Featuring refined low-noise characteristics, 12 and 14 bit output, Live View capability and more, the D3X’s unique sensor design was carefully blueprinted to perform in perfect concert with proprietary Nikon technologies including EXPEED Image Processing and the Scene Recognition System. Meticulous efforts allowed the sensor to become one of the many essential components and technologies which contribute to the D3X’s superior image fidelity.
It will be interesting to see the difference in performance between the D3X and A900 at higher ISO settings. My guess is that there will be little in resolution and IQ at lower settings. If there is little difference at higher ISOs the Nikon forum will be re-ignited over the $5000 premium for the D3X they have been ranting about for days.