Powerful compacts with big sensors are becoming a hot topic since Sony jammed full frame into the RX1. One of the major complaints: It's just too expensive. Nikon hopes to return the volley with a powerful new point and shoot that is slightly more affordable. The Coolpix A's main attraction is its 16.2 MP CMOS DX sensor, similar to what you would find in a one of their DSLRs with APS-C sensors. Also featured - A fast f/2.8 18.5mm Nikkor lens (28mm equiv.), speedy auto focus, manual focus ring, as well as optional EVF and wireless connectivity with the WU-1a WiFi module. Aiming its sights at the enthusiast, the Coolpix A will cost a hefty $1,100...not quite the $2,800 of the RX1, but still a pretty penny. UPDATE: Get more information on the Coolpix A in Black or Silver at Unique Photo's homepage.
Nikon Coolpix A
Alongside the Coolpix A's release are two more point and shoots: The COOLPIX P330 which boasts a fast f/1.8 lens and the COOLPIX S3500 for the economically conscious.
Press Release:
The COOLPIX A: Nikon's First DX-Format COOLPIX Camera Unlike any other COOLPIX camera, the new COOLPIX A is equipped with a DX-format CMOS sensor that enables users to achieve superior image quality previously only possible with a Nikon D-SLR. The combination of this 16.2-megapixel DX-format sensor and ultra-sharp prime NIKKOR lens firmly positions the COOLPIX A as the reigning flagship camera in the COOLPIX line. The all-glass 18.5mm (28mm equivalent) prime lens has an f/2.8 aperture, allowing users to shoot with a shallow depth of field to blur backgrounds for professional-looking photos. Even when the sun goes down, the lens offers the ability to turn a fleeting glance into a flattering moonlit portrait with just a press of the shutter. Always ready for the spontaneous moment, the camera's quick AF performance and 4 frames-per-second (fps) burst help users to consistently capture any moment with outstanding image quality. For those who want to push their photography skills, the versatile COOLPIX A also offers advanced settings to allow shooters to have complete creative control to master nearly any shooting situation. With multiple Scene Modes, a familiar manual focus ring, full manual exposure controls (P,S,A,M), and the ability to shoot RAW/NEF image files, even a simple snapshot can be transformed into artistic expression. Additionally, the COOLPIX A offers a variety of accessories to enhance the shooting experience, including the DF-CP1 Optical Viewfinder, the UR-E24 Adapter Ring for attaching lens hoods and filters, and the HN-CP18 metal Lens Hood, which helps protect the surface of the lens and restricts light from passing through without negatively influencing images. The camera also has a full size hot shoe port that makes the camera compatible with various accessories such as Nikon Speedlights.