Editor's Choice 2007: Imaging Essentials

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This innovative camera is unique among its peers -- the only digital SLR with an image sensor that works essentially the same way as film, recording color with separate red-, green-, and blue-sensitive layers. That proprietary chip design allows the SD14 to record a full spectrum at each pixel location, rather than having to interpolate color as other cameras do. The payoff is purer hues, sharper per-pixel detail, and the absence of moiré patterns produced by conventional CCD and CMOS designs. The SD14's second-generation Foveon X3 sensor has 4.6 million pixels per layer, capturing 35 percent more than its predecessor, the Sigma SD10. Its resolution is comparable to that of a conventional 10-megapixel D-SLR. The SD14 also gets a much bigger, brighter pentaprism viewfinder; a new five-point AF array; a pop-up flash; a rechargeable Li-ion battery; and, perhaps the most useful improvement, the ability to shoot JPEGs in addition to Sigma X3F RAW files. We particularly like the removable filter protecting its mirror chamber and sensor from dust. Take it off and the SD14 becomes an excellent tool for infrared photography. Now reduced to $1,199.

Epson Stylus Photo 1400

This is the new dye-based model in Epson's lineup of 13-inch, wide-carriage printers. Compared to its predecessor, the long-lived Stylus Photo 1280, the SP1400 offers three big advantages: faster printing, higher maximum definition (5760x1440ppi), and longer print life (rated at 98 years displayed under glass). Its image quality is very good, thanks in part to the use of six Epson Claria inks applied in droplets as small as 1.5 picoliters. Print sizes range from 4x6 to 13x19 inches, and an included adapter permits direct printing on CDs and DVDs. The SP1400 doesn't support the use of thick fine-art paper; for that you need the more sophisticated, pigment-based Stylus Photo R1800. But with a little TLC I was able to coax the SP1400 into printing fairly thick DVD inserts. Overall, this printer offers solid, mid-pack performance at a reasonable price that includes Adobe Photoshop Elements software. About $375.

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