Sigma SD15 no video mode?

Norman99

Norman99

Well-known member
Ever since Foveon put a chip in Sigma cameras, I was wishing for a full frame Foveon on a DSLR. With every new model. I was dissapointed that what if..
1080P 29.97fps continuous recording (no file limit size), full frame as I can use all my legacy 35mm lenses (yes those cool F1.2, F1.4, F2) manual focus of course that were made the way they should. Twin card slot, stereo mic in and other stuff I know will not materialize sometime soon. A Foveon sensor for video hmm.. what are the negative aspects of that in a full frame ? and why haven't other cam mfrs. looked into that? just wondering.
 
I've often wondered what the video would look like from a Foveon camera, and also from another maverick sensor camera: the Fuji DSLR (but there's been nothing since the 5D pro). The Sigma SD15 finally (finally) appeared, and despite my irrational hope they would include a video feature on a DSLR this year, they didn't! Oh well, maybe next time. Strangely, the new Sigma compacts announced (DP1x and DP2s) which have large DSLR sensors do shoot video -- but, only at a laughable 320 x 240 x 30p.
 
I think that Foveon is the ultimate sensor. I mean, have you had a chance to see the concept of it ? All other sensors are in the dark ages. Just google it. If a full frame Foveon is put in a camera with 20 megapix or more and can support full 1080P at variable frame rates and a few other pro desired features, eliminating all them useless bells and whistles, it would be top gun. Call it a nice name such as Sigma SDX-V with continuous HD no file limit capture, mirrorless interchangeable lens, large 16:9 lcd, stereo mic in, sensor image stabilization( sensor moves).Make it under a grand for body only and I will get 3 in different colors for my tools of the trade.
 
Consider the possibility that the Sigma's sensor is simply much too slow for video in Full HD resolution.

The reported "burst rate" of 3 pictures per second does give a hint, I believe, especially since this is for only 4.6 MP (where full HD would be 2-ish).
 
Sensor too slow ? no way, that sensor with the right processing IC's and electronics can run circles around anything out there. How does RED do it with their monstrous size sensors capturing ultra FULL HD. It's all in the electronics. Have you seen the size of RED's sensors ? The technology is there, question is, will they make one? and at what price. Mass production lowers cost and final price. This is interesting times indeed. Much iprovements are needed in the hybrid DSLR arena.
 
Norman99 said:
Sensor too slow ? no way, that sensor with the right processing IC's and electronics can run circles around anything out there. How does RED do it with their monstrous size sensors capturing ultra FULL HD. It's all in the electronics. Have you seen the size of RED's sensors ? The technology is there, question is, will they make one? and at what price. Mass production lowers cost and final price. This is interesting times indeed. Much iprovements are needed in the hybrid DSLR arena.
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I said the same thing 3 years ago when the RED went public. So far, no one has stepped up to the plate so to speak with mass production. However, HDSLRs are filling in the middle ground pretty quick.
 
Norman99 said:
Sensor too slow ?
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Yes, very obviously so.

Norman99 said:
no way, that sensor with the right processing IC's and electronics can run circles around anything out there.
Click to expand...

No, apparently it can't. Foveon says you can read 30FPS at 640 * 480 resolution from their latest product, not more. And that limit has nothing to do with "the right processing IC's" outside the sensor, I'm afraid :cry:

You can look at the sensor's specifications for yourself, here: http://www.foveon.com/files/F13_image_sensor_Product_Flier_RevD.pdf
 
The Japanese will always make something that's affordable and mass export it all over the place. They are mostly geared up for the amateur, semi pro, prosumer market in the scheme of things. Don't get me wrong, they also make truly pro gear as I have always used their Nikon F system and Canon F1's since I can remember. Leicaflex and Zeiss Contarex SLR just couldn't compete in their ballgame pricing as well as the Swiss Alpas. Japan rules the roost when it comes down to mass affordability. They give you more features for less moola. Kodak did have a go at interchangeable lens SLR way back and had the lensed made by Schneider and Zeiss in Germany. Japan's schrewd marketing and quick product improvement with new models having added features made others think twice. Sure Zeiss and Leica still make cameras for the holder of a thick wallet, but that is a completely different user. Competition is good, very good for the consumer as it lowers prices. Like the saying goes, lead. follow, or step out of the way. The leader gets the big bucks.
 
I think Foveon can make a higher res sensor. Just look at the small size of the one they are using now. Come on, just make it 36X24 mm full frame and see the res go up, way up.
 
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