Nikon's DL series (premium compact)

[ThisBougieLife]

I'm sure most people here are mirrorless/DSLR users, but is anyone interested in Nikon's new 1-inch sensor DL series?

I was waiting for Nikon to come out with new premium compacts (the days of 1/1.7" being the largest sensor in a compact seem to be over) and I was pleasantly surprised to see these:

http://petapixel.com/2016/02/23/nikon-unveils-new-dl-series-trio-premium-1-compact-cameras/

At the same time, they're fairly expensive for what they are. The DSLR I own now cost half the price of the cheapest of these models, and it has a sensor almost twice as big. I would, however, not mind having a smaller camera on hand, so I may consider it.

 

[Mr Kram]

they sound great, but for me it's DSLR (D750) and compact P&S with zoom (S9900). i usually lug the big camera with me whenever i can. the P&S only goes where the DSLR is not allowed. i.e. sporting events, concerts, etc.

 

[Apple fanboy]

Not for me. I can take a DSLR anywhere I want to shoot.

 

[OreoCookie]

I couldn't care less about a camera with a 1" sensor size.

 

[ThisBougieLife]

I couldn't care less about a camera with a 1" sensor size.

See that's sort of what I'm thinking. I'm new to DSLRs; I only got my first one for last Christmas. But already I'm aware of the huge differences an APS-C sensor makes. I don't know if I can go back, even if it means a smaller camera. That's why the Nikon Coolpix A interested me: an APS-C sensor in a pocket-sized camera (with fixed lens of course). Unfortunately they don't seem to be coming out with an update to that one (and indeed it's from 2013 with no update in sight).

 

[OreoCookie]

You see, for anything serious, I have my X100s and my Nikon dslr, for everything else I have my iPhone. While I am sure some of these DL-series cameras are smaller than my X100s, the difference is not big enough so one of them could wedge themselves in the middle. I cannot think of an instance when I would take a DL-series camera because my X100s is too big, but I'd want better images than what my iPhone can offer.

 

[Ray2]

I have the Sony RX100 M3. Bought it for convenience. I've been FF dslr, now APS-C mirrorless for my prime camera. I'd say the difference between FF sensor (D800) IQ and APS-C (Fuji) is minor compared to the difference between APS-C and 1". You give up a lot in terms of high (800 and up) ISO performance. Which means you sacrifice shutter speed in low light situations. The lenses get slower rather quickly beyond the wide end. Typically I'm giving up 2 full stops versus my 1.4 mirrorless primes. The stabilization systems are good for perhaps 2 stops compared to 4 on a decent IBIS or lens based 4 or 5 axis system. Basically, I use the Sony as a daylight only camera. A disappointment.

For my carry anywhere camera I went from a reasonably compact, fixed lens, Fuji X100 and X100T to the Sony. I got pocketability and a zoom. I lost a lot of IQ. Not to mention the Sony in-camera processor leaves a lot to be desired creating more time in post. As well as poor white balance in artificial lighting (a Sony trademark) again causing more work in post -- as in shooting raw all the time.

On the positive side, the RX is a pleasure to work with. Controls are very well thought out if one takes the time to set it up to best support one's shooting style. Grip/handling is excellent with the addition of a grip and the judicious use of some gun tape. Size is divine for a carry anywhere approach. There's a big difference between not minding lugging around a dslr and it being a practical carry when one's primary objective is not shooting but normal daily life.

For anyone considering one of these for uncontrolled shooting environments (say travel) I'd think again. You need to love doing post and you will be constrained in terms of IQ. Indoors it's a non-starter without flash. My keeper rates are substantially down versus APS-C. Given what these camera's cost, as well as the fact they're also using Sony's 1" sensor, one should carefully consider how much IQ and versatility one is willing to sacrifice versus just using your smart phone.

 

[ApfelKuchen]

Nikon's been making 1" sensor cameras for years. Until they come out with APS-C or FF mirrorless, I don't consider it news.

Since I'm already a MFT user, one can say I've chosen my "acceptable compromise" - I don't personally see a need to go smaller. But if one is enamored of the Nikon name, wants "enthusiast" features, and wants to add a compact to the lineup... why not?

Still, regardless of the marketing spin, I feel 1" is designed to appeal predominantly to small-sensor users moving up, rather than large sensor users moving to something more compact. P&S users are accustomed to having non-interchangeable lenses - these babies give them improved IQ and faster lenses - major steps up without having to go all the way to the bulk of a DSLR.

 

[AppleHater]

This is a RX100 X competitor, and I think it's got a good chance because of the price tag and superior focusing system. Focusing system wise, it'll be pretty hard to beat this one according to the specs even for DSLRs.