Sigma DP2 Quattro
Announced February 13, 2014
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Mediocre
Sigma DP2 Quattro is a uniquely designed camera that delivers stunning, high-resolution imagery with exceptional detail in controlled, low-ISO conditions. That said, its specialized Foveon sensor technology and unconventional ergonomics require significant patience and a slow, deliberate shooting workflow.
Weighted from 17 reviewer scores
Pros
- Exceptional image quality, resolution, and color detail at low ISOs
- Sharp, high-quality fixed prime lens
- Well-designed menu system and controls
- Solid, all-metal build quality
- Quiet leaf shutter operation
Cons
- Awkward, uncomfortable ergonomics and handling
- Slow operational speed, autofocus, and buffer clearing
- Poor high ISO performance and limited dynamic range
- Lack of modern features like video, stabilization, and internal flash
- Cumbersome proprietary RAW processing software
- Launch price $999 (USD)
- Sensor 29MP APS-C Foveon
What the Reviewers Say
All 17 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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All in all, the Sigma dp2 Quattro is one quirky camera, which has become the hallmark characteristic of Sigma’s family of Foveon-based compact cameras.
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[T]his is an interesting proof of concept camera that is lacking on many fronts. This is one camera that will not be in my camera bag and I really wanted it to be.
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The dp2 Quattro is one of the most difficult cameras to judge that I’ve used recently.
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If you're looking for a Sigma camera, that classic quality, but you want something more practical and usable, this is the way to go. And because of that, we're going to call the Quattro success.
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The Sigma dp2 Quattro and other Sigma cameras are difficult to compare directly to other cameras, as they are unique in being the only camera available that uses a multi-layer sensor solution where every pixel records all colour information.
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Sigma continue to take a solitary path with the new DP2 Quattro, remaining the only camera manufacturer to use the Foveon sensor technology.
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The Sigma dp2 Quattro is a strange-looking camera that captures images with an incredible amount of detail, but it requires patience and discipline to get great results.
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I would like a better viewfinder / loupe; I would like it to be a little bit more comfortable to hold; I would like the lens to be smaller and faster.
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The DP2 Quattro is another digital camera that can make you slow down and a very good one actually.
- Photo Review 8.5/10
If you want detail that rivals the best DSLRs we’ve reviewed, Sigma cameras are hard to beat, but we think the Merrill alternative adequately satisfies this requirement.
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The DP Quattro is about one thing and one thing only…making memories in decent light with the best quality possible in this size and format for under $1000.
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While the Sigma DP2 Quattro isn’t for everyone, it’s a fantastic camera for first-time camera owners and travel photographers. Also, its fun design is sure to turn heads when you are shooting around other photographers.
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Nonetheless, used in the right scenario, in very limited range, the Foveon X3 sensor in Sigma DP2 Quattro shines, producing mind-blowingly sharp images with resolution only medium format cameras can match. It is indeed, a class of its own.
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I think Sigma really has something, here. They’ve been on a roll with their lenses (their new 50mm f/1.4 Art series lens took the product shots in this review with the help of my D4) and seem to be speeding up with their cameras.
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The SIGMA DP2 Quattro seems to be taking the diametrically opposite path to what was expected. The images from the DP2 are simply stunning in good light.
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While the dp2 Quattro offers some excellent results in the right hands, it just has too many omissions and makes too many compromises to be recommended.
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It somehow manages to be a polarizing camera even relative to itself.
