| |
 |
|
|
Imaging: 12.3MP (effective) CMOS sensor captures images at 4288x2848 pixels with up to 14 bits/color in RAW mode.
Storage: CompactFlash Type I/II including UDMA; microdrives. Stores JPEG, RAW (12 or 14 bit), RAW + JPEG and TIFF files.
Burst rate: Fine-quality JPEGs: 6 fps up to 100 shots. RAW: Up to 19 RAW at 6 fps (12-bit); 8 fps with optional battery grip.
AF system: TTL phase detection with 51 illuminated focus points (15 cross-type). Single-shot and continuous AF with 3D focus tracking. Sensitive down to EV -2 (at ISO 100, f/1.4).
Shutter speeds: 1/8000 to 30 sec plus B (1/3, 1/2, or 1-EV increments). 150,000 cycle rating.
Metering: TTL metering using 1005-pixel RGB sensor, 3D Color Matrix II, centerweighted, and spotmetering (approx. 2.0% of viewfinder). EV 0-20 (at ISO 100).
ISO range: Normal: ISO 200-3200; expanded: ISO 100 or 6400 (in 1/3-EV increments).
Flash: i-TTL built-in pop-up flash, GN 39 (ISO 100, feet). Flash sync to 1/250 sec. Provides wireless control of Nikon SB-600 or SB-800 units. Dedicated Nikon hot shoe.
Viewfinder: Fixed eye-level pentaprism.
LCD: 3-in. TFT with 307,00-pixel resolution, 170-degree viewing angle.
Output: Hi-Speed USB 2.0, HDMI video, 9-pin GPS, and 10-pin remote control.
Battery: Rechargeable EN-EL3e Li-ion, CIPA rating, 1000 shots, 50% with flash.
Size/weight: 5.8x4.5x2.9 in., 1.82 lb without card and battery.
Street price: $1,800, body only; $2,100 with Nikkor 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G ED-IF AF-S DX lens.
For info: www.nikonusa.com.
VIEWFINDER TEST
Accuracy: 99% (Excellent)
Magnification: 0.94X (Excellent)
Competitive Set
• Sony Alpha 700 ($1,400, street, body only): With its similar-sized 12.2MP CMOS sensor, the A700 captures nearly as much detail as the D300, but the color is not as accurate. The noise control advantage also goes to the D300 at ISO 1600 and above, and its AF system squeaks past the A700's in very low light (the A700 is faster in very bright light). The A700 boasts the same spectacular 3-inch LCD monitor -- but with no live view, and it captures 5 fps in burst mode vs. the Nikon's 6 fps. To its credit, the A700's SteadyShot IS gives it up to a 3-stop handholding advantage with any lens.
• Olympus E-3 ($1,700, street, body only): For only $100 less, the E-3 ranks as the closest competitor to the D300 in most categories. Like the Sony, it features a sensor-based IS system, but it also has a swiveling LCD monitor (albeit a 2.5-incher) and live view with AF. The tough body has more control buttons (some in odd places), and its AF system is slightly faster in very bright light. However, the D300's AF wins hands-down in moderate and very low light. Plus, its AF tracking is superior, and its better noise reduction at high ISOs also gives it the image-quality advantage.
|
