PERFORMANCE
To process image from Foveon sensor require good processor. And this is what Sigma lacks in previous DP cameras (DP1 and DP2). This is made worse because Sigma is not a strong electronic company like Sony or Samsung. Therefore, processing image and general performance of DP1 and DP2 is slower.
However, Sigma uses new processing engine called TRUE II, which I think improves the overall camera performance significantly. I say “significantly” because I haven’t tried the previous generation.
For me, DP2s performance is very good compared to compact cameras. It starts up and shut down reasonably fast (around one to two seconds). Auto focus speed is quite slow but bearable at around .5 to 1 second. When shooting close subjects, auto focus regularly won’t work well.
Overall, the performance of Sigma DP2 is about a bit below average compared to compact cameras. However, it has been improved significantly from previous series, which could be a lot worse (according to critics).
What to like about Sigma DP2
+ Image quality (color, crispness in detail, sharpness) is excellent in low ISO
+ Sharp and popular 41mm (normal) equivalent lens with reasonably fast lens f/2.8
+ JPG output requires less post processing adjustment
+ Solid built quality with boxy inconspicuous design
+ Simple user interface and Quick Menu
What I don’t like about Sigma DP2
- Auto focus performance could be a bit faster
- Auto focus won’t work well especially for close subject
- LCD screen freeze when shutter is half pressed for AF
- Poor image quality at ISO 1600 and 3200 and it is only available when you shoot in RAW
- When shooting in long exposure, the processing become longer than usual. It could takes up to 4-5 seconds.
- Long exposure is limited to 15 seconds
Sigma DP2s and Panasonic Lumix LX3
COMPETITORS
Leica X1 Price: $1995
Leica employ 24mm f/2.8 lens (equiv. 35mm), an APS-C sized sensor (equal to DSLR camera) and no nonsense classic interface design, including dedicated shutter speed and aperture dials with excellent built and “Leica feel.”
Ricoh GXR + A12 50mm f/2.5 Macro $1080
Ricoh GXR is an unique interchangeable lens/sensor (lensor). Ricoh GXR – A12 also use 12 MP CMOS sensor that you will find in DSLR cameras. Ricoh cameras are famous for its user interface.
Panasonic GF1 with 20mm f/1.7 $800
Panasonic GF1 is a compact interchangeable camera that use four third sensors. It is smaller than CMOS or FOVEON. GF1 is more responsive. It has leading auto focus performance and wide array of lenses.
CONCLUSION
If you choose Sigma DP2s, it should be because of its image quality. Because the overall performance (speed) is not that great, DP2s is suited for people who is more deliberative in making photos and less suitable for fast action photography.
Subjective Rating – Relative to mirrorless camera and compact with large sensor 2010
Image Quality : 6/5 Excellent quality
Features : 2/5
Performance : 3/5
Body and Handling : 3/5
Value for Money : 3/5
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
the Foveon sensor looks like a real winner
Hi, I have a question and I am looking for an opinion from a Pro Like You.
Would you say that this camera is better than the Leica D-Lux.
hi Elyar, in term of image quality, it is better because the Sigma has significant larger sensor, in term of versatility (zoom) and speed/performance, Leica D-Lux/Panasonic LX3/5 is better.
Sigma is only superseded by Leica for image quality – indeed Sigma has been described as the poor man’s Leica.
The Sigma DP2s is quite special – I just hope that there is an arms race on who can build the best compact SLR – However, most people do not really know about image sensor size & how much difference it makes to photo quality. Maybe over time as the online photographic enthusiast community grows (in a way that only the internet allows for) then this knowledge & technical criticism will seep out into the wider public.
In about 5 years (maybe), fast, image stabilising , zoom, compact DSLR’s will be the norm and everyone can take great pics all the time.
Take it further – technology may allow for camera phones to have full size sensors – although the lenses would need to protrude enough for focus and depth.
Who knows?
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