Nikon has announced they will be releasing the D90 DSLR to replace the 2 year old D80. While similar from the exterior, the D90 will sport a 12.9 mega-pixel DX-format CMOS sensor to match the new generation of D3, D300 & D700 DSLRs. Also following suit of these DSLRs, the D90's LCD will increase in size from 2.5-inch to 3-inch. The D90 will also inherit the Live Vew of the other Nikon CMOS DSLRs.
D90 Observation Summary
While still aimed at the serious amateur, the D90 should offer a good bang for the buck for those planning to shoot with only DX-format lenses. The new sensor should offer ISO 6400 quality close to that of the D300. Unless you plan to shoot with older AFD,AF,Ai or Ai-s lenses, ponying up for the D300's other features may not be worth the money.
Main Features Include:
- 12.9 megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor (effective pixels: 12.3 million)
- 3.0-inch 920,000 pixel (VGA x 3 colors) TFT-LCD (same as D3 and D300)
- Live View with contrast-detect AF
- Image sensor cleaning (sensor shake)
- Movie capture at up to 1280 x 720 (720p) 24 fps with mono sound)
- IS0 200-3200 range (100-6400 expanded)
Other Features Include:
- optional compact GPS unit (fits on hot shoe)
- Illuminated focus points
- 4.5 frames per second continuous shooting
- Expeed image processing engine
- 3D tracking AF (11 point)
- Short startup time, viewfinder blackout and shutter lag
- Slightly improved viewfinder (96% frame coverage)
- Extensive in-camera retouching including raw development and straightening
- Vignetting control in-camera
- 72 thumbnail and calendar view in playback
