Nikon Canada Inc. has announced a new flagship DSLR. The D4 employs Nikon's latest EXPEED 3 image processor and a new 16.2-megapixel FX-format (full-frame) CMOS sensor.

The full-frame sensor has large 7.3-micron pixels, a gapless micro-lens design and anti-reflective coating. Coupled with the new processor, this results in superb low-light capability. Native ISO range is 100 to 12,800, and expandable from 50 (Lo-1) to an incredible 204,800 (Hi-4).

The new processor also improves performance. The D4 can capture full-resolution JPEG and RAW files at 10 frames per second with full autofocus and auto-exposure, or up to 11fps with AF and AE locked. There are slots for UDMA CompactFlash cards, and the new XQD format. The camera powers up in 0.012 second, Nikon says.

In addition to JPEGs and uncompressed RAW files in Nikon's NEF format, the D4 can capture compressed RAW files, for more efficient storage and faster workflow. The D4 can also record 1080p Full HD video at 24 or 30fps, or 720p HD video at 60fps. It uses H.264 / MPEG-4 AVC coding, and can capture clips as long as 20 minutes. The camera has stereo microphone and headphone jacks, and an HDMI port for connection to an HDTV monitor or external recording device. When a telephoto effect is required, users can select DX mode for a 1.5x crop factor, or the new CX mode for a 2.7x crop factor.

The D4 employs the Advanced Multicam 3500 AF, the latest generation of Nikon's 51-point AF system. Its 15 cross-type AF sensors work with lenses f/5.6 and lower. Nine of the cross-type sensors will work with Nikkor TC14E and TC17E teleconverters; and a single cross-type sensor will work with the TC20E teleconverter with aperture up to f/8.

The AF sensor can detect up to 16 human faces in a frame, even when using the optical viewfinder, allowing for accurate focus and exposure, even if the subject is backlit. The AF system also receives colour information from the metering system's 91,000-pixel RGB sensor, improving focus accuracy.

The D4's RGB 3D Colour Matrix Metering System analyzes colour and brightness information from the metering sensor, comparing it to information on different types of images in the system's database.

Other features include in-camera high-dynamic-range (HDR) processing that merges consecutive exposures; time-lapse shooting; remote shutter operation; and a new 3.2" 921,000-dot LCD with a zoom function for confirming critical focus.

The Nikon D4 will be available in Canada on February 16 for $6,300.

Article Tags:  Nikon, D4, flagship, DSLR, DX, FX, full frame, 1080p, HD, EXPEED, Nikkor