Hi Jono,Hi Dave
I think it's all rather simple. s2, m9 and MF cameras use CCD. Everything else is CMOS.
It's not so much about Leica/ Pentax technical knowhow as the sensor They choose.
Looking at the DXO figures for the new Sony sensor (same in d7000, sony a580, k5) is enlightening to say the least ( look at the DR figures). I'm quite sure that this tech will be in the next round of FF sensors from Nikon and Sony. As for the RAW files, 3000 shots in with the Pentax have proved to me that they are very malleable, with the best shadow recovery I've seen in anything.
But this really is off topic!
You're right, I didn't touch on the implications of choice of sensor and its appropriateness for its selection in various bodies and also its implication in high ISO performance. I also agree, the dynamic range of these new crops of APS DSLR's are remarkable...one of the first things I noticed about the files in lighting situations photographed to test spcifically for DR. Pulling out detail in the shadows with remarkable ease with little destructive noise is notable! I may have been harsh on the noise reduction algorythms often employed, as that was standard on many past Pentax's and even some Nikon APS DSLR's not too long ago, especially in the mid priced range. Some of these files were, lets just kindly say, "not ready for prime time". I was recently asked to put the D7000 through its paces and also compare similary taken K5 files, so my in depth experience with these files is more limited compared to those cameras I intensly use.
I think though this all does have relevancy to the S2, in that some are trying to make informed decisions as to whether to stick with their current Nikon/Canon full frame high resolution DSLR cameras and system, anticipating what the next round of bodies/imporvement might bring to the table vis-a-vis moving onto the S2. I realize it depends on so many factors, like what one needs or expects and the potential use of the camera and its files.
Which sort of brings this entire topic back full circle to those who have the S2 and have been more than generous with their time in posting of images and providing vauable insights and feedback.
Dave (D&A)
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