Sigma 46 Megapixels Flagship SD1 DSLR Review by PB With Rating 4/5

On September 21 2010, Sigma announced the flagship SD1 DSLR camera, which comes with a brand new 46 Megapixels 24x16mm APS-C X3 direct image sensor (4800 x 3200 x 3 layers). The SD1 is Sigma's flagship DSLR model, adopting a lightweight yet solid magnesium alloy for its body and O-ring sealing connections to make a weather-resistant design throughout for use in harsh conditions. The combination of the 46 megapixel sensor and dual TRUE II processing engines ensure the high resolution images are processed quickly with high definition and smooth and subtle graduation of colour. The SD1 features also inclues 3-inch 460k dot LCD, a new 11-point twin-cross AF system and TYPE I CF Card slot that is compatible with UDMA Mode6 for fast processing of large amounts of data. 

The Sigma SD1, is listed for the MSRP at $9,700. Here's the summary of review by PhotographyBLOG, giving the camera a rating of 4 out of 5:

"We were really excited to get hold of the Sigma SD1, it's a lovely camera to hold and you can feel the workmanship that's gone into it. The magnesium alloy body ensures rigidity and the weather sealing means you don't have to rush out of the rain. We like the colour rendition of the sensor and can't fault the low ISO images for smoothness, sharpness and - frankly - noise free performance. Given the right lens, we think that the SD1 would be able to pick out every pore on a model's face and get the colours and contours of the skin bang on. There are a few underlying issues with the SD1 that we're disappointed with. The lack of live view was an issue when we were photographing the cars. We wanted a low angle but couldn't get our eye to the viewfinder comfortably and it shows. Live view would have helped us get the framing spot on.  We would love to see what the video capability of the new Foveon sensor is like but alas, the SD1 doesn't feature it. Our curiosity aside, more and more photographers, especially fashion photographers, are using video to bolster their portfolio of skill. Wedding photographers are also using video on a DSLR because it's convenient and the depth of field from the larger sensor is sublime. Sigma have missed a trick by not including it. It's also a shame that the sensor isn't full frame. However, we love the inclusion of a flash sync socket, it's a rarity these days and we also like the small interior technological advantages, namely the twin motors for the mirror and shutter curtain.

It's difficult to recommend a camera at this price in the financial situation that the world is in, especially because of the Sigma SD1's obvious shortcomings. If it was around the £1800 to £2000 mark then it would be a different matter but at just over £5000 it's a big ask. Especially as it's a Sigma fit and there are currently no SAF adapters, so anyone on another brand will have to buy all new glass. However, looking past the negatives, we would recommend it because it's a good camera that gives very good results. If you're a studio photographer looking for mind bogglingly big files from a DSLR, you want a decent build, good colour performance, you're not tied to a brand and you have a lot of money to spend then take a look at the Sigma SD1. The pictures are very good after all and ultimately that's what's important."