Sigma has announced that the long-awaited DP1 will be available this spring. DPReview has the press release and full specifications here. Unfortunately, I don't think this model will succeed. It's distinguishing feature is that it packs a large (APS-C) sensor into a compact form. However, one of the advantages most of us associates with larger sensors is cleaner performance at high ISO values. The fact that the DP1 has a maximum ISO setting of ISO 800, maximum shutter speed of 1/1000s, and a relatively slow f/4 lens assures that low-light handheld photography will not be a strength of this camera. That and the general public bias against prime lenses, particularly wide prime lenses, make it unlikely that the DP1 will sell particularly well. I hope that I am wrong and that the DP1 finds its niche. Who knows, it could be the next cult camera. Success or not, the DP1 will likely be an important camera. If it flops, it may be a long time before we see another attempt to bring a large sensor compact camera to market. If it sells, it will pave the way for other interesting new models to come.

The DP1 is now available for pre-order from Amazon with a release date of March 25.