We have written about the affordable full frame DSLRs from both the Canon and Nikon camps a couple of months ago. The D600 was probably one of the worst kept secrets in the photography world, with leaks galore making not much a surprise when the camera was launched last week. That being said, the leaks have not made the D600 any less desirable to Nikonians worldwide.
Looking like a crossbreed between the D7000 and the D700/D800, the D600 seems to fit the bill as an ideal upgrade for photographers who want to take the plunge to an FX upgrade but don’t have the money to shell out for a Pro model. The D600 features a 24MP FX sensor that shoots at a somewhat decent 100 – 6400 native ISO and 5.5fps. The camera will also feature full 1080p recording at 24,25 and 30fps with 60fps at 720p with the incredible feature of clean HDMI output. The D600 will have dual SD card slots instead of the more commonly used CF cards in the pro bodies which leads me to believe that it really is a camera for upgraders and not those who just want a second pro body.
So does the D600, one of the most anticipated cameras of the year, fit your bill for an upgrade? Personally at the previously assumed prices of US$1,500 It would have been a no brainer. At the Malaysian launch, no price was announced, however we managed to get the estimated RRP to be RM7,998 with retailers like Shashinki opening preorders at RM6,998. I think at that price, it’s a world of difference from the D800, which was the only FX upgrade choice which was current for DX users. If you’re coming off a D90 or even a D300s, this is a perfect upgrade for you and I’d say don’t hesitate. Even if you have a stable of DX lenses, the crop on the D600 is good enough.
When push comes to shove, the D600 is a perfect camera for an upgrade but perhaps not for a second body for people like me using the D700. This is a great indication of things to come and a wonderful move for the photography world in general making the larger sensors a lot more accessible to people.
Hit the jump for more images from the Malaysian Launch!
Images made possible by Chapree Zulkefli
