Nikon D700: Camera Test

Imaging: 12.1MP effective, full-frame CMOS sensor captures images at 4256x2832 pixels with 12 or 14 bits/color in RAW mode.

Storage: Single CompactFlash Type I/II including UDMA; microdrives. Stores JPEG, NEF RAW, RAW + JPEG and TIFF files.

Burst rate: Full-sized JPEGs (Fine mode), up to 100 shots at 5 fps; RAW, up to 19 shots at 5 fps (12 bit) and up to 17 shots at 5 fps (14 bit); TIFF, up to 17 shots at 5 fps.

AF system: TTL phase detection with 51 illuminated focus points (15 cross-type). Single-shot and continuous AF with 3D focus tracking. Tested sensitivity down to EV -2 (at ISO 100, f/1.4).

Live view: TTL phase detection and contrast detection autofocus modes.

Shutter speeds: 1/8000 to 30 sec plus B (1/3-,1/2-, or1-EV increments). 150,000-cycle rating.

Metering: TTL metering using 1,005-pixel RGB sensor, 3D Color Matrix II, centerweighted, and spotmetering (approx. 1.5% of viewfinder). EV 0-20 (at ISO 100).

ISO range: Normal, ISO 200-6400; expanded ISO 100, 12,800 (in 1/3-EV increments), and 25,600 (in 1-EV increments).

Flash: Built-in pop-up unit GN 43 (in feet at ISO 100), covers angle of view of 24mm FX lens. X-sync at 1/250 sec.

Viewfinder: Fixed eye-level pentaprism. Accuracy: 95% (Excellent) Magnification: 0.74X (Very Good)

LCD: 3-in. TFT with 921,000-dot resolution, 170-degree viewing angle.

Output: Hi-Speed USB 2.0, HDMI (mini-type) video, 9-pin GPS, and 10-pin remote control.

Battery: Rechargeable EN-EL3e Li-ion, CIPA rating, 1,000 shots.

Size/weight: 5.8x4.8x3.0 in., 1.82 lb with card and battery.

Street price: $3,000, body only.

For info:www.nikonusa.com.

WHAT'S HOT

• Full-frame 12.1MP CMOS sensor.

• Sensitive 51-zone AF.

• Sharp 3-inch LCD.

• Pop-up flash with wireless flash control.

WHAT'S NOT

• No second CF card slot.

• Blackout time when focusing in live view.

• No built-in image stabilization -- you'll need a VR lens.

WHO'S THIS FOR?

Pros and enthusiasts who want the low noise, high sensitivity, and super-wide angles of a full-frame sensor, but who don't need the super-high-end Nikon D3.