Sigma unveils DP2 Quattro with 19.6MP Foveon sensor

Not sure what weed Sigma have been smoking but here we go, the brand new DP2 - APS-C sensor and fixed focal length cameras. The latest, 45mm-equivalent, model features dramatic styling and a fundamental re-think of the company's Foveon multi-layer sensor design. The Quattro sensor still uses three layers to detect color information but now only captures its full, 19.6 million pixel resolution in the top layer, with lower two layers capturing 4.9MP of information each. The sensor will also appear in 28mm and 75mm equivalent dp1 Quattro and dp3 Quattro models.

Price and availability have not yet been announced.

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Sigma announces 50mm F1.4 DG HSM 'Art' lens

Sigma has announced the 50mm F1.4 DG HSM a fast prime for full frame DSLRs. It will also work on APS-C / DX format cameras, offering a 75mm equivalent short telephoto effect.

It's a completely new lens, rather than a revision of Sigma's existing 50mm F1.4 EX DG HSM, with an unusually complex optical formula for its type (13 elements in 8 groups). It's also rather large, with a strong family resemblance to the excellent 35mm F1.4 DG HSM. The 50mm F1.4 will be available in Canon, Nikon, Sigma and Sony mounts.

The lens employs an ultrasonic-type focusing motor, and according to Sigma uses improved autofocus algorithms. It's also compatible with Sigma's USB dock (allowing the user to update the firmware when required), and Sigma's Mount Conversion service. Pricing and availability are still to be confirmed.

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