A-DIGITAL-EYE (21ST CENTURY DIGITAL CAMERAS, PHOTO PRINTERS, PAPERS, CAMCORDERS, IMAGING SOFTWARE, DIGITAL EQUIPMENT, REVIEWS AND MORE!) KONICA MINOLTA MAXXUM 7D DSLR DIGITAL CAMERA PREVIEW PAGE 
KONICA MINOLTA PRESS RELEASE
KONICA MINOLTA INTRODUCES THE MAXXUM 7D - WORLD'S FIRST* DIGITAL SLR CAMERA WITH REVOLUTIONARY BODY-INTEGRAL, ANTI-SHAKE TECHNOLOGY
New 6.1 megapixel interchangeable lens digital camera represents the culmination of the optical and photo-imaging expertise of two of the most respected names in photography
Mahwah, NJ (September 15, 2004) - Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. today unveils the new Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D digital Single Lens Reflex (SLR) camera. This groundbreaking new 6.1-million-pixel resolution, interchangeable lens digital camera is the world's first digital SLR featuring a body-integral CCD-shift, Anti-Shake (camera-shake compensation) technology that combines enhanced picture quality, performance and improved handling characteristics. This new digital SLR also features a large, easy-to-view, high-definition 2.5-inch color LCD monitor and is compatible with virtually any Maxxum AF lens.
"Drawing on the tradition of technical
expertise that gave birth to the Maxxum 7000, the world's first
body-integral autofocus 35mm SLR camera, the RD-175, one of the
world's first consumer-use digital SLR's, and the world's first
washless photofinishing system, the NPS-1 Mini Lab, the Konica
Minolta Maxxum 7D draws on more than a century of optical and
photo-imaging expertise of two of the most respected names in
photography," said Todd Schrader, vice president of marketing
for Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. "In addition,
the new Maxxum 7D also inherits the intuitive operating ease
of the award-winning Maxxum 7 35mm SLR, and maintains full compatibility
with Maxxum system lenses and accessories which is sure to please
loyal Maxxum photographers around the world."
Specifically designed to match the performance requirements of the camera's large 6-megapixel CCD, the Maxxum 7D's unique, built-in exclusive CCD shift-type Anti-Shake technology makes this new camera the first digital SLR to feature a body-integral Anti-Shake function. This system instantly and precisely shifts the CCD to compensate for camera motion. And it's so effective photographers can shoot at shutter speeds up to three steps slower than what they could use without it. So even in low light, photographers can keep their images clean and sharp, free of the image-degrading noise that creeps in when they boost ISO sensitivity. And because the mechanism is integrated directly into the Maxxum 7D's cameras body, it works with virtually any Maxxum AF lens - a major advantage for photographers when compared to bulky and expensive lens-based optical stabilization systems and software-based "digital correction systems" that can degrade image quality.
Konica Minolta's award-winning Anti-Shake technology provides images with reduced blur due to camera shake, even when shooting dimly lit scenes or when using telephoto lenses and shooting macro subjects without the aid of flash or a tripod.
The Maxxum 7D offers effective Anti-Shake
protection with every lens* in the Maxxum AF line. Whether using
telephoto, wide-angle, zoom, macro or standard, the system analyzes
data on focal length, current aperture setting, and focusing
distance so that it can optimize Anti-Shake performance to offer
the highest level of protection.
* Except AF16mm Fish Eye and Macro Zoom 3x - 1x.
In addition, the camera also features a large, easy-to-view, high-definition 2.5-inch color LCD monitor housed on its back-plate. The large screen handles the tasks of menu navigation and image display, also providing shooting information and camera setting displays.
The New Maxxum 7D also features Konica Minolta's proprietary, CxProcess™ III image processing technology that delivers high-definition, natural-looking images. High speed image processing is achieved using the all-new Advanced LSI engine designed to help provide fast data handling for improved camera responsiveness and control.
In keeping with its acclaimed Maxxum film SLR counterpart, the Maxxum 7D inherits a similar, simple-to-use dial and lever operation system. Enhancing handling further, the new model also features a superbly-bright, easy-to-view, high-performance viewfinder designed to be comfortable and easy to use.
The new digital SLR also offers a comprehensive
function set, designed to meet a diverse range of photographic
challenges and user needs, complemented by a broad range of Maxxum
accessories that give photographers a complete system back-up.
Note *1) As a lens-changeable digital
SLR camera
About Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc.
Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc., headquartered in Mahwah,
NJ, is the North American sales and marketing subsidiary of Konica
Minolta Holdings, Inc. (Tokyo, Japan). On August 5, 2003 Konica
Minolta Holdings, Inc. was formed to enhance both the competitive
business capabilities and earning capacities of Konica Corporation
and Minolta Co., Ltd.
Consumers around the world have come to know and trust the Konica and Minolta brands for all their imaging needs. Since the earliest days of the photo industry, Minolta and Konica have applied their talents and resources to create products and services that are essential to the world of imaging. Today, these efforts concentrate on the most important aspects of imaging: the quality of the images, the tools and methods for creating images, and the creation of environments for the application of images.
This focus on the essentials of imaging ties together the company's key business and consumer product lines. Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. is a leading manufacturer and marketer of 35mm and Advanced Photo System film, single-use cameras, digital and 35mm film cameras, accessory lenses, binoculars, photographic and color measurement meters. In addition the company offers color print photo papers, inkjet photo paper, digital minilabs, digital film scanners, optical instruments, software and advanced imaging and sensing technologies. Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc. also provides wholesale photofinishing services and Internet imaging services. It is a complete imaging company, from input through output. For more information about Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc., its products and services, visit www.konicaminolta.us.
All brand names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
BACKGROUNDER
New Konica Minolta Digital Single Lens
Reflex (SLR) Camera:
The Maxxum 7D
Konica Minolta Photo Imaging U.S.A., Inc.'s new Maxxum 7D is the world's first*1 digital SLR to be equipped with a body-integral, CCD-shift camera-shake compensation Anti-Shake technology that supports all Maxxum AF lenses*2.
Product Highlights
· Body-integral CCD-shift Anti-Shake technology reduces
blur caused by camera shake and supports all Maxxum AF lenses.
· A large, easy-to-view 2.5-inch high-definition, 207,000-pixel
color LCD monitor that combines menu navigation with image and
data display.
· Stunning picture quality derived from a high resolution,
6.1-million-pixel (effective) 23.5mm x 15.7mm size CCD and exclusive
Konica Minolta CxProcess™ III image processing technology.
· Incorporates a central, cross hair type, 9-point and
8-line autofocus (AF) sensor array providing high-precision AF
and high performance subject tracking of moving subjects.
· Combines simple operation in a stylish, compact package
inheriting the product ideals of the Maxxum range of film SLR
cameras. Upgraded, high-end shooting and versatile imaging functions
designed to satisfy any photographer's needs, whether they are
amateur or enthusiast.
· Excellent system back-up and accessories to cater to
a broad range of shooting styles and conditions.
Features:
Anti-shake Technology and CCD Shift
Mechanism
The world's first*1 digital SLR with body-integral CCD-shift
Anti-Shake technology, including compatibility with Minolta A-Mount
optics and allowing all Konica Minolta interchangeable AF lenses
to be used.*2
The award winning Konica Minolta Anti-Shake technology was selected as "European Photo Innovation of the Year 2004 - 2005" by EISA*3 and provides the equivalent correction effect*4 with a shutter speed 2 - 3 steps slower.
Konica Minolta's Anti-Shake technology makes it possible to reduce blur caused by camera shake, even when taking photos in dimly lit or twilight scenes, in natural light with a telephoto lens, as well as macro shots - without relying on a higher ISO setting or the aid of a flash or tripod. Anti-Shake responds quickly to both broad, slow-swaying motion of the camera body and the higher frequency shaking typical of camera shake caused by the photographer's hands.
The Anti-Shake technology can be switched on or off via a dedicated switch on the camera's back and when active, an Anti-Shake indicator is displayed on the viewfinder to keep the user informed when it's active.
Easy-to-View 2.5-inch High-Definition
LCD Monitor
Centrally mounted on the camera's back-plate is the large, easy-to-view
2.5-inch, high-resolution, 207,000-pixel color monitor. It quickly
and clearly displays captured shots for fast image appraisal.
Image histogram data can be overlaid without obscuring the displayed
image and thanks to its large size, it can display up to a 16-frame
thumbnail index display.
Intuitive Operation with Dial-&-Lever
System
The new Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D inherits the dial and lever
operation system from the highly-regarded Maxxum 7 35mm SLR camera.
This similarity allows intuitive operation for Maxxum 35mm SLR
users moving up to the new digital Maxxum 7D.
Menu and Navigation Display
The LCD monitor works as a Navigation Display allowing seamless
operation with clear and concise camera settings displayed with
comprehensive shooting information, indicated with large, easy
to read text. Aiding ease of use further, the display automatically
switches from horizontal to vertical format when shooting in
the upright "portrait" format.
Advanced LSI Image Processing Engine
A newly developed Advanced LSI image processing engine for the
Maxxum 7D enables high-speed processing of large quantities of
data and designed to improve image processing at high-sensitivity
settings ensuring reduced image noise while retaining high picture
quality. This combination also helps ensure easy handling similar
to the smooth-shooting rhythm associated with 35mm film SLR cameras.
Konica Minolta's CxProcess™ III
Consistently high picture quality is ensured by the 6.1-million-effective-pixel
CCD, the unique CxProcess™ III image processing technology,
and a combination of Konica Minolta's expertise in photosensitive
materials and exposure control technologies. Each is integrated
here in the new Maxxum 7D to ensure superb picture quality and
to help make the most of any attached AF lens.
CxProcess™ III is an original,
image processing technology designed to provide impressive and
natural-looking images. CxProcess™ III, achieves these stunning,
natural-looking images by integrating a broad range of photographic
technologies gained from Konica Minolta's long years of experience
in this field. It ensures clear and crisp pictures, natural skin
tones and packs in detail, ideal for shooting landscapes or macro
subjects.
High-Performance, High-Speed Autofocus
(AF)
The new Maxxum 7D incorporates a central, cross hair type, 9-point
and 8-line AF sensor array providing high-precision AF and high
performance subject tracking of moving subjects within the frame.
The AF system enables both Predictive Focus Control and Subject
Tracking for high-speed focus adjustment of moving subjects,
making it ideal for fleeting moments or sports photography.
High-Speed Continuous Advance and Image
Processing with Large Capacity Image Buffer
The new Maxxum 7D allows high speed continuous shooting of up
to 9 consecutive frames at up to 3-frames per second in both
RAW or RAW+JPEG modes thanks to a large image buffer. Additionally,
it allows continuous shooting of up to twelve 3008x2000 JPEG
images at the extra-fine image-quality setting and 15 JPEG images
the same size at the fine image-quality setting. These high-speed
shooting capabilities are ideal for capturing momentary expressions,
sports or fleeting action shots while retaining high picture
quality throughout.
RAW+JPEG Simultaneous Recording
Photographers can choose to shoot either JPEG or RAW images or
both combined with the simultaneous RAW + JPEG dual-format capture
mode for improved, post-shoot workflow.
Easy-to-View, High-Performance Viewfinder
A spherical acute matte focusing screen is used in the viewfinder
for accurate, bright critical focusing assessment. The new model
incorporates an optical glass pentaprism viewfinder with a 0.9x
magnification factor and 95% field of view for easy scene assessment
and composition.
Highly Durable and Reliable Magnesium-Alloy
Body
The new camera is sturdy, compact and stylish featuring a magnesium
alloy front body panel and base.
Comprehensive Image Adjustment and Control
for Creative Picture Capture
· Image correction: 5-step fine control adjustment for
sharpness, contrast, color saturation and hue.
· White balance (WB) setting: In addition to the auto
mode, the new camera has six presets for WB plus a custom mode
for precise white balance settings in difficult lighting conditions.
This model also features numerical settings for color temperature,
which gives photographers a higher degree of color temperature
matching. Fine-tuning is possible over a range from 2500K to
9900K in 100K increments, providing a broader range than with
the auto white balance or preset white balance alone.
· Zone Matching: New technology that allows the precise
reproduction of tonal gradations in highlights and shadows, essential
in difficult shooting conditions with predominant highlights
and helps ensure noise-free low-light images. The camera's Zone
Matching system permits effective control of high and low key
tone capture; the former important for highlight capture in shots
such as a white wedding dress, the latter for low light situations.
Maxxum System Accessories
Konica Minolta has also introduced two new zoom lenses, each
designed to provide optimum image quality when used with the
new Maxxum 7D digital SLR - the Konica Minolta AF ZOOM 17 - 35
mm f/2.8 - 4 (D) and the Konica Minolta AF ZOOM 28 - 75 mm f/2.8
(D).
A broad range of existing Maxxum-system accessories is also available for use with the Maxxum 7D including D-series flash units, remote cords and an angle viewfinder. The D-series flash and D-series lenses, which include built-in focus distance calculations, when used in combination with the new Maxxum 7D, provide improved exposure accuracy. Combined with high-precision ADI flash metering, the camera provides high-precision lighting control that answers the most demanding and diverse needs.
The new dedicated VC-7D Vertical Control Grip for the new Maxxum 7D connects to the camera body and provides a secure grip on the camera while enhancing easy, vertical camera control and overall ease of use, particularly when shooting upright, portrait-format shots.
The VC-7D's sure-hold grip provides confident handling characteristics and features a dedicated shutter-release button, front and rear control dials, autofocus (AF)/manual focus (MF) control button, auto exposure (AE) lock button and AF area selector button, thereby delivering comfortable and reassuring handling characteristics to the camera in either horizontal or vertical shooting situations.
The VC-7D allows two lithium-ion batteries to be used simultaneously for an extra power supply. This allows photographers to take advantage of shooting many more images before worrying about recharging the batteries. Adding still more versatility, standard AA Ni-MH batteries can also be used.
Konica Minolta's new DiMAGE Master is optional software to improve creative workflow for advanced users. Diversified tools for classifying and comparing images boost work efficiency of selecting the best shots. Newly developed RAW processing program enables more accurate color reproduction.
NOTES:
*1) As a lens-changeable digital SLR camera
*2) With the camera's AF macro-zoom 1x - 3x specialty lenses
and Anti-shake function turned off.
*3) The European Imaging and Sound Association, publishing 50
major photography and AV magazines in 20 European countries
*4) Anti-Shake picture blur correction effect amount varies
with shooting conditions and lenses used
KONICA MINOLTA MAXXUM 7D DIGITAL SINGLE
LENS REFLEX (SLR) CAMERA
Specifications
Camera Type Interchangeable-lens digital
SLR camera
Lens Mount Minolta A-type bayonet
mount
Image Capture Total pixels: 6.3 million, Effective pixels:
6.1 million CCD size: 23.5mm x 15.7mm, Interline primary color,
interlace scanSensitivity: Auto and 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600,and
3200 ISO equivalents Aspect ratio: 3:2
Recording Recording Media: Type?and Type? CompactFlash Cards,
Microdrive, SD Memory Cards and MultiMedia Cards with optionalCompactFlashAdapter
SD-SF File format: JPEG, RAW, RAW+JPEG (DCF 2.0 compliant, DPOF
(supported by printing functions in version 1.1), Exif 2.2)Storage
capacity: Approximate storage capacity of a 256MB: 3008x2000
2256x1496 1504x1000
RAW 26 frames - -
RAW+JPEG 19 frames 21 frames 23 frames
Extra fine 41 frames 72 frames 157 frames
Fine 81 frames 141 frames 292 frames
Standard 138 frames 235 frames 463 frames
Color mode: Natural: sRGB, Natural +: sRGB, Adobe RGBImage quality
mode: Standard, Fine, Extra-fine, RAW, RAW+JPEG (Fine)Image correction:
Contrast, Color saturation, Sharpness, Hue (5 levels)Noise reduction:
Available (at shutter speed longer than 1 second,ON/OFF selectable)Delete
function: Single frame, Marked frames or All frames in a folder
in card can be deleted.
White Balance Control Automatic, Preset (Daylight, Shade, Cloudy,
Tungsten, Fluorescent, Flash), Custom, Color temperature setting
available
Playback LCD monitor: 2.5-inch TFT colorTotal pixels: 207, 000Navigation
system: (Enlarged display, Automatic rotate function)Number of
frame/s displayed: 1, Index (4, 9, 16 selectable)Display mode:
Image only, Image + text, Image + text + histogram
Enlarged playback (Up to approximately 5x), Luminance limit
Display,File browser, Slideshow, Instant bracket playback
Autofocus System Type: Through-the-lens (TTL) phase-detection
systemSensor: CCD line sensors (9 points, 8 lines with center
cross-hair sensor)Sensitivity range: EV-1 - EV18 (ISO 100)Autofocus
area: Wide focus area, any local focus area is selectable from
9 point sensors.Focus mode: Autofocus/Manual focus can be selected.Autofocus
mode: Single-shot AF, Continuous AF, Automatic Autofocus (DMF
is selectable in menu). Predictive focus control for moving subjects.
Auto-tracking focus point displayFocus lock: Available (by pressing
the shutter release button halfway down)
AF illuminator: Available (with pre-flash) 3.3-16.4 ft.
(1.0-5.0m)
Autoexposure System TTL metering using 14-segment honeycomb-pattern
SPC(14-segment Honeycomb-pattern/Center-weighted/Spot metering)Metering
range: EV 0 - 20 (EV 3 - 20 in spot metering) * at ISO100 with
f/1.4 lens Exposure modes: P/Full-auto program (Programmed AE
with program shift), A (Aperture priority), S (Shutter priority),
M (Manual)Exposure-compensation compensation: +/- 3 EV in 1/2
increments +/- 2 EV in 1/3 increments AE lock: Automatically
activated with AF lock, Available with AE lock button
Flash Flash metering: ADI, Pre-flash TTL, Manual flash controlGuide
number: 12 (in meters at ISO 100), 17 (in meters ISO 200)Coverage:
24mmRecycling time: Approximately 3 secondsControl: Manual switchover.
Lift-up for Fill Flash, push down for Flash Cancel. Flash modes:
Fill Flash, Flash Cancel, Red-eye Reduction (pre-flash), Wireless/Remote
Off-camera Flash, Rear Flash Sync., High Speed Sync.
Flash compensation: +/- 2 EV in 1/2 stop increments
External-flashes Program Flash 5600HS(D), 3600HS(D), 2500D, Macro
Ring Flash 1200* with flash sync. terminal* Macro Flash Controller
is necessary.
Shutter Type: Electronically-controlled, vertical-traverse, focal-plane
ShutterRange: 30-1/4000 second, Bulb
Flash sync speed: 1/160 second (with Anti-shake OFF), 1/125
second (with Anti-shake ON)
Drive Drive modes: Single, Continuous, 10 seconds/2 seconds self-timer,Single
bracket, Continuous bracket Continuous
advance: Approximately 3 frames per secondApproximate number
of frames that can be captured at one time: 3008x2000 2256x1496
1504x1000
RAW 9 frames - -
RAW+JPEG 9 frames 9 frames 9 frames
Extra fine 12 frames 14 frames 20 frames
Fine 15 frames 19 frames 30 frames
Standard 19 frames 26 frames 43 frames
Exposure bracketing: With 0.3/0.5 EV increments, 3/5 framesInterval
recording: Interval time: 30 seconds/1-10, 15, 20, 30, 45, 60
minutes, 2 -240 frames. Start timer is equipped. (Setting: 0.5
to 24H, in 0.5 increments)Other functions: Instant playback,
Customizing, Zone matching
Anti-Shake CCD-Shift Anti-shake system with LED indicator in
viewfinderAnti-shake effect: Equivalent to 2 - 3 steps in shutter
speed (Actual effect varies depending
on shooting conditions and the lens used.)
Viewfinder Type: Eye-level fixed pentaprism Focusing screen:
Spherical Acute Matte (G-type as standard)Field of view: Approximately
95% Magnification: 0.9x (with 50mm lens focused on infinity)Diopter
control: -3.0 to + 1.0 m-1 Eye-relief: 25mm from the eyepiece,
21mm from the eyepiece frame in -1 m-1 Eyepiece cup is removable.
Interchangeable focusing screen is available (type M, L, ML)
at service facilities.
Video Output NTSC / PAL
Audio Signal Yes
Printing Output Control Exif Print,
PRINT Image Matching?, PictBridge
PC Interface USB 2.0 High-Speed
Remote Function Remote data storage: available. (Remote-storage
function software 'DiMAGE Transfer' for Maxxum7D is available
as a free download. It will be released in January 2005.
Power Battery: One NP-400 Li-ion battery Battery condition indication:
4-stage indicator appears when the camera is turned on.
External power source: 6V DC (with specified
AC adapter AC-11), Vertical Control Grip VC-7D
Battery Performance (with Fresh Batteries) Number of recorded
images:· Approximately 400 frames. (CIPA measurement*1)
Conforming to CIPA standard test method with a compact flash
card and an NP-400 lithium-ion battery. · Approximately
600 frames (Konica Minolta measurement A*2) · Approximately
2000 frames (Konica Minolta measurement B*3) Conditions: Anti-Shake:
ON, Recording media: 512MB CompactFlash Cards, Battery: Li-ion
Battery NP-400, *1:CIPA: Camera & Imaging Products Association
*2: Flash: OFF, other conditions are same as CIPA measurement.
*3: Drive mode: 5 frames continuous shooting, Flash ;OFF, Instant
Playback: NO
Dimensions (W x H x D) 1 5.91 x 4.17
x 3.05 inches (150 x 106 x 77.5mm)
Weight 26.81 ounces (760g) (without batteries and recording media)
Operating Temperature 32-104 °F (0 - 40 °C)
Standard Accessories DiMAGE Viewer
CD-ROM, Li-ion Battery NP-400, Li-ion Battery Charger BC-400,
Wide Strap WS-4, Shoe-Cap SC-1000, Eyepiece Cap?, Eyepiece Cup
EC-1400, Body Cap BDC-1000, Remote Cord Clip, LCD Monitor Protect
Panel MPP-1000, USB Cable USB-2, Video Cable VC-500
Optional Accessories Vertical Control Grip VC-7D, Camera Case
CS-7D, AC Adapter AC-11, SD-CF Card Adapter SD-CF 1, Remote Cord
RC-1000S, Remote Cord RC-1000L, DiMAGE Master Software
Compatible computers: IBM PC/AT compatible
computers:
Window 98*/Me/2000(Professional)/XP(Home/Professional)
Macintosh OS9.0-9.2.2/OS X v10.1.3-10.1.5/v10.2.1-10.2.8/v10.3-10.3.5
o The computer and operating system
must be guaranteed by their manufacturers to support USB interface.
o Problems may be encountered depending on what other USB devices
are being used in parallel with this product.
o Only a built-in USB port is supported. Problems may be encountered
when the camera is connected to a USB hub.
o Normal operation may not be possible even when all the system
requirements are met.
* Users with Windows 98 and Windows 98 Second Edition operating
system must install dedicated driver software included in the
DiMAGE viewer CD-ROM.
MAXXUM, DiMAGE, CxProcess are trademarks
or registered trademarks of Konica Minolta Camera, Inc.
Windows is either a registered trademark or a trademark of Microsoft
Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Macintosh
is a trademark or registered trademark of Apple Computer Inc.
Other corporate names and product names are trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective companies.
Specifications, accessories and system
requirements are subject to change without notification.
