Alan Browne wrote in
:

The 100 low limit means it's not the same sensor (most probably a
variant of it though). All cameras using the same architecture of the
sensor has a low limit of 200; the spec of the *ist DS is unknown WRT
that however. It may be a slightly revised Sony chip.

It may be a revised v., may be the same (may be something else
entirely)... the ISO limits is a system integration issue ...

As I understand it it's more of a register issue and thus directly related
to the sensor hardware. 3200 as max (the *ist D has it, the Nikons not) is
likely a design decision though; 3200 is too bad so they are not giving it
even as an option.

That, and the lack of a focus assist beam, clearly are cost-cutting
measures. The shutter disturbs me more than the focus assist beam,
but with HSS it's no biggie for me really.

http://www.dpreview.com/news/0409/ko...lta/km7d02.jpg
http://www.dpreview.com/news/0409/ko...lta/km7d01.jpg

Seems to show a focus assist beam xmiter below the blue logo.
(This may also be a pre-prod that is too close to the 7 and not
rep of the final).

No, that is the final camera, and no, that's a self-timer led or maybe some
sort of IR remote release window. The D7D has AF illumination from the
built-in flash, or from an accessory flash.

Rumours have been flying about a 15-17 sept announcement for weeks
now. It's no reaction.

Given the overall poor announcement quality and the poor state of
the website dedicated to the camera (lot's of place holder stuff,
very little meaningful detail) it seems reactionary.

Maybe they don't know themselves. The camera is finalized (some people have
review samples) but software might not be finalized -- sources (Minolta
officials!) says delivery by November. I certainly hope that's a
misunderstanding.