I am enjoying the thought exchange, thanks for contributing everyone.
I think “mushiness” brings some negative connotations but, in the context of Sigma Merrills, it is a word that describes it well, difference between a biting sharpness, so biting in fact that I stopped using them altogether, and a rather soft, in direct comparison, rendering of a CMOS sensor. I mentioned it to make sure that softness is not necessarily a bad thing. I have a certain preference for P1s CCD sensors as well, despite its technical limitations, so you can appreciate the shock those Z6 files gave me, that’s why I went with “mushy”. I hope there’s nothing wrong with the Z6, and there probably isn’t, since I read accounts of similar impressions. Saying that, would anyone care to share some Z6 RAW files for download just to make sure the camera is fine?
I downloaded more RAW files from Z7s (other users / reviews) and the soft characteristic is still there, regardless of MP count or resolution, therefore, I am not convinced a Z7 is the answer. The Z6’s AA filter appears to be fairly weak as well, as I’ve already seen some moire, where the Df would display none.
I definitely enjoy manual focusing more on the Z6 over DSLR’s focusing screen and I want to keep using my Zeiss Zf.2 lenses with their “classic”, non-corrected rendering (25mm f2.8, 50mm 1.4 and 85mm 1.4) sot Z7’s 47 MPs would be an overkill. I need to shoot some more with Sigma Art lenses to give the sensor a true test with optimal glass as well. I might have panicked ran into too many conclusions too early.
I tried both the latest version of Nikon Raw converter and the latest version of Adobe’s DNG converter as my Photoshop (CS6) does not handle the Z6 files natively. Tried C1 and got so-so results. PS gave me the best overall look, after Adobe’s DNG conversion.
Tweaking the sharpness settings on those Z6 files can transform them. I think I need to experiment with the optimal sharpness settings a bit more. Gentle sharpening in the RAW converter before exporting to PS allows for more sharpening if necessary as well. One thing they do bring to the table is a certain analogue look, without edginess, something that the d810 sometimes displayed, especially with contrasty edges and harsh light. I find it very appealing. It is where the light/dark transitions had a bit of a spill, not a straight cut, if you like. A bit like chrome materials I used to shoot a lot.
Thanks again.