While Nikon's new APS-C-format D7100 DSLR may look remarkably similar to the camera it replaces (the D7000), the new model boasts some interesting new features under its magnesim-alloy chassis, including a 51-point AF system, a redesigned 24-megapixel sensor and, unusually, no optical low pass filter.
Low pass filters are used in most cameras to minimise moire effect in scenes containing fine repeating patterns (such as brickwork, pinstriped fabrics, etc) but at the cost of some sharpness in the image. Without a low-pass filter, the D7100 should produce sharper images generally, however it's not clear at this stage what, if any, steps the D7100 takes to address the moire issue.
The AF system marks a big step forward, with the D7100 offering 51 AF points (and 15 cross-type sensors) compared to 39 AF points in the D7000. As well as making the camera better suited to sports and action photography, the camera is able to focus automatically in lighting measuring just -2 EV, roughly equivalent to moonlight. Movie mode has also been enhanced with the camera offering 1080p resolution at 30fps, compared to 24p, and built-in stereo microphones.
A new optional 1.3x DX crop mode for stills and video capture allows users to extend the 'length' of their lenses (a 50mm lens increases from an effective focal length of 75mm to 100mm in 1.3x crop mode) and boost continuous shooting speeds from 6 to 7fps. The new model is also slightly lighter than the D7000, dropping from 780 to 765g (with batteries).
Other key specs include a 3.2-inch high-resolution TFT LCD monitor with a wide viewing angle, an ISO sensitivity range of 100 to 6400 expandable to 256,00 (Hi 2), magnesium-alloy body construction and a high-performance optical viewfinder that offers close to 100% frame coverage.
Smart device compatibility for the D7100 is available via the optional wireless WU-1a mobile adapter, which allows the camera's live view function to be displayed on a smart phone or tablet screen for remote capture (remote movie recording isn’t supported). Images captured with the D7100 can also be transferred to the smart device over a wireless connection using the WU-1a.
The D7100 also supports the WR-1, a new transceiver that enables verification and adjustment of camera settings, and control over remote shooting. The WR-1 uses radio waves and supports 15 channels for communication over a maximum range of 120 m between multiple WR-1s. Not only can one WR-1 be configured as a transmitter and a second as a receiver to control one remote camera, but multiple WR-1s can be configured as receivers for remote controls over multiple cameras. A number of remote shooting options are available, including simultaneous release and synchronized release, as well as interval timer shooting and a division of multiple cameras into groups for separate control over each group. Remote control is also possible using both the WR-R10/WR-T10 together.
The Nikon D7100 is expected to be available in March 2013.
