Monty,

Knowing oneself is like looking in a kind of mirror, one that is reflections coming from interacting with people and things, the world around us. I started doing camera and equipment user report writing in the beginning of '75 (after 20 some years practicing photography), every month testing, one, two or sometimes three products a month. By 1990 I was burned out by film photography of just about very thing imaginable, and was glad to end film photography (except scanning) and learn what digital could do, and I've been at it almost every day ever since, almost 20 years now. So I have a very good set of reflections of what the photography world is to me by my experience of every niche and corner of it. Brand names mean little, but some models of equipment have been very effective and valuable and others from mediocre to a pain you know where.

The rest of you have not the time, fortune or dedication to do the same thing, which is why what I write is of some limited value even though I cannot see things as others might, just the way I do.

At 76 and having some physical limitations I go out and do a very little shooting any more, in large part because there are not too many things I have not photographed in 50 some years, and repeating myself is a bore. But there is always another way of seeing and capturing an image. So what would I prefer to take out, and instead of my complex Canon EOS 5D system, but something I can put in a pocket. So far I have not decided between the Sigma DP1S or a DP2, but little else that is offered by any brand or model is more appealing - and i keep up with most of what is new out there!

David, I respect your thoughts here. I have not the experience You have. I too for the most part have limited time and it is much easier to carry a small camera. I have concidered th Dp2 for it's value. My budget will define the final choice.

David, Since you have used the Dp2. How do you feel it does for BW.

My experience is really very limited as I have not made a decision and purchase, but my test of image file made with the Foveon processor indicate that it really is an advantage to have a image chip in three, one R, G, and B on top of each other that mimics color film in structure so detail is exposed and formed before any post exposure processing; compared to the standard Bayer CCD.CMOS lateral pattern where the sharpness and detail has to be brought together by rater extensive post exposure processing.

I am waiting to make a purchase decision until after the just announced DP1S is available, which brings its features more in line with the DP2. The reason is that I really prefer the DP1's shorter focal length lens, more like the 24mm f/2.8 I have used for years with Canon SLR bodies - always my main lens.

Like any other digital camera the Sigma DPi and DP2 image once converted and in Photoshop look a lot more like scanned color film images in terms of detail, sharpness and tone separation compared to other digital camera file images.

So I would assume using a good multi-channel color interpretation to convert from digital color to B&W will yield and grayscale images that are also better detailed and with more distinct tone separations. In other words the advantages of the Foveon 3 layer imaging processor chip shold continue into B&W conversions grayscale as well.

BTW the Leica X2 was shown behind the counter at this last week's New York show from what I have heard.

David any price on the DP1S yet. Has Sigma addressed the issues from the other models. I am impressed with the image quality from the images I have seen on the internet from DP2. I have not seen them first hand. As far as the X1 the only way I will ever see one if I have one. The word is the first ones to come in will be sold before they arrive at the dealers.

What's in a name, add over a $1,000 for the look and the Leica logo and you have what, a standard "C" CMOS chip. That makes for an expensive ego trip. And you can buy one from Amazon.com!

Sorry, I am not that impressed!

The DP1S was just announced, and I have no information as to when it will be released for sale, but the changes are not that big a deal, so it should not be too long.I would doubt it would be much different in price compared to the DP2, but that is just a guess. When it shows up on the Sigma web site in full bloom, I'll start checking around. And what REAL issues are you talking about?

I guess the software updates addressed any issues they had if any really. Once again I do respect your thoughts because of your time and experience. The Leica attracted me mainly because of the bigger sensor before the DP1's came out. Now that it is coming I believe the decision will be an easy one. I just want a nice camera which can give me a quality image. The Dp2 have gotten my attension for some time. With the DP1's coming out I am sure that be the one.I love single focal lens. It is nice to have a fast lens but if image quality is good at higher ISO settings then you can get by with a slower lens. Truth of the matter is for the most part I hardly ever shoot wide open so it is not a real issue.I will follow the reviews when the DP1's comes out. I believe the cost factor is not justified between the two cameras. Thanks David.

From the information released about the upcoming Sigma DP1S model, the sensor and lens will be the same as before and the capture image quality should be essentially the same between the DP2 and the DP1S. The only new changes are the user features in the DP2 will be adopted in the DP1S making some users find it more "congenial". Both lenses have very high performance, but the DP1S will be a bit more compact and lighter due to its shorter, smaller lens.

So I just now wait for product to be available, and my checkbook able to withstand it, or I'll maybe sell some of my Canon gear to make the move. One consideration would be if I could get the Sigma SD-14 body with the 60mm macro lens to replace my whole Canon system - Oh! well you never get too old to fantasize a little.

I might just trade my Nikon for the Dp2. From what I have read the DP1S will not be t hat much different. I have read a lot About the DP2 and I believe I would like it. I am kinda like all the rest of us we well see.