New Nikon DSLR coming. (Thanks Sony!)

[priller]

Nikon has just put out a "teaser" ad saying a new 10.2 MP camera is on its way. Most people seem to think it will be a replacement to the ageing D70, probably to be called the D80 or D90. It will probably be similar to the D200, but with a D70-sized body and controls, with slightly lower performance specs.

I say "Thanks, Sony!" because I'm sure this is at least partially in response to the Sony Alpha, which has the same 10.2 MP sensor (also in the D200) but with built-in VR and dust shake, at a much lower price.

I have no idea what the price is going to be, but I'm thinking it has to be sub-$1K, to compete with Sony. I'm excited! Because I've been toying with the idea of moving up to the D200. Now I have another option. (Plus Cindy wants a DSLR also, I can just let her have my D70s. Win-win!)

[regnaD kciN]

1. I've heard it will be about the same price as the D70s...

...in other words, about $1000-$1100 with kit lens. About $100 more than the Sony, and with less of a feature set, but I'm sure they will make that up in most people's minds with Nikon's reputation and selection of lenses. Most likely, if you shoot Raw and use a tripod (to negate the Sony's image stabilization feature), you won't be able to notice much of a difference.

[priller]

2. More info leaked out...

To be called the D80. Body looks similar to the D50, but with larger D200-like viewfinder bulge (yea!) and controls more like the D70, with large LCD from the D200 (yea!). Small card door looks to be for SD card size (boo!). And, like I said earlier, 10.2 MP sensor, supposed to be 4.5 fps. Basically, very close to D200 specs and performance in a slightly smaller body.

List price is supposed to be $899 for body only. Looks good! :applause: