Nikon D1x Review

For the opportunity Nikon D1x body camera review Many thanks to Boris (Central Committee of Vlksm).

Nikon D1x Review

Nikon D1x Review

Nikon D1x Is a very old, flagship professional camera. You can see on my plate what place it occupies among all the central control rooms Nikon. The performance of the camera is one of the lowest among the entire Nikon CZK line, you can see for yourself in Nikon performance section.

Nikon D1x - rear view

Nikon D1x - Back View

Nikon D1x was released back in 2001 along with another flagship camera Nikon D1H. Please note that externally the Nikon D1 cameras, D1h, D1x are completely identical (except for the inscription of the name of the camera) and are built on the basis of the same body, therefore, it will be difficult to feel the difference in control and ergonomics.

Photo at Nikon D1x

Photo at Nikon D1x

D1x uses very unusual CCD sensor on 5.33 million effective pixels. This allows you to get a photo of 3008 in 1960, which is equal to 5.9MP. The matrix feature is that its real physical parameters are 4028 by 1324 pixels (5.33MP, with approximately proportions 1 to 4, not 2 to 3) The number of pixels placed horizontally remains the same as the Nikon D1, D1h (1324 pixels), but the number of pixels in width has doubled on the matrix, up to 4028 pixels. At the same time, the physical dimensions of the matrices of Nikon D1, D1h, D1x are the same. This is very unusual matrix structurein order for the camera to produce a normal image with an aspect ratio of 2: 3, you need to use a special interpolation algorithm that 'decompresses' the image. Considering that the matrix already has a Bayer subpixel structure, Nikon took some risk of degrading the image detail with such a sensor structure. In fact, this type of sensor doesn't 'feel' at all when shooting. For those who find 5.33MP small, I recommend my article Battle of Megapixels... Nikon D1x is the only camera with such a sensor. It's a pity that the technology was not upgraded, it would be interesting to shoot a matrix with such a pixel structure at 18MP.

Attention: cameras with new firmware can save image sizes 4011 by 2613 pixelswhich is equal 10.5MP. This mode is available in both JPEG and RAW. The unusual structure of the pattern of Bayer RGB sub-sensors allows drawing 10.5MP from the matrix to 5.33MP of real pixels.

Photo at Nikon D1x

Photo taken at Nikon D1x. Skinton at high ISO and AWB

Camera supports ISO 125-800, expandable to 3200 in Hi-2 mode. It's funny that the D1x has not yet reached ISO 100. A feature of the D1x camera is its very short minimum excerptwhich is 1 \ 16.000s. Thus, the camera can dose light in a smaller amount than even modern cameras at ISO 100 and 1 \ 8000c. With so short shutter speed you can wonderfully 'freeze' any movement. Minimum excerpt flash synchronization, too, is unusual, and amounts to 1 \ 500s. The camera does not support fast synchronization with the flash, but I met information that with the new firmware, the camera can work in FP mode and shutter speeds up to 1 / 8800s using a Nikon SB-28DX flash or similar. Yes, D1x does not have a built-in flash and can only work with external flashes.

Photo at Nikon D1x

Photo taken at Nikon D1x. Pay attention to ISO and shutter speed

Nikon D1x has built-in focus motor and can work with AF optics (with lenses without a focus motor). This will help save money using old lenses. For test shots in this review, I used just the old film lens Nikon 85mm F / 1.8D AF Nikkor.

Sample photo on Nikon D1x

Sample photo on Nikon D1x

At the camera excellent ergonomics: two control wheels and multi selector, two monochrome displays. The camera does not require a booster, but immediately performed in a combo version of landscape and portrait orientation. Additional menu buttons are hidden behind a metal curtain, which is closed with a magnet. Unfortunately, under the blind there is a white balance control button and a programmable button. By the way, I set up a programmable button to select image quality.

Sample photo on Nikon D1x

Sample photo on Nikon D1x

The camera display is very small, with very small viewing angles. It’s very difficult to view the shot material on it. Basically, the display can serve as a guide to the camera menu, and you can also view the histogram of the captured image. Camera menu is not available in Russian.

Sample photo on Nikon D1x

Sample photo on Nikon D1x

The battery of the camera of the old type Ni-MH withstands up to 200 operations. This is a strong flaw in the camera. I have 3 batteries in the kit, which, from old age, can squeeze out 400 frames combined.

Nikon D1x has everything 5 focus points, for which Multi-CAM1300 is responsible. For some tasks, 5 focus points are very few. Measurement exposure carried out on the basis of 1,005-pixel sensor.

Sample photo on Nikon D1x

Sample photo on Nikon D1x

Total Burst Speed 3 frames per second. The same maximum speed is available in cameras by type Nikon D70, D70s, D60, D3000, D80. This is not enough. Frame buffer can accommodate 12 RAW files with any level of compression. Or, 19 JPEG files any quality. This is neither much nor little, for example, baby Nikon D3100 has 13 RAW files in its buffer. The buffer and shooting speed directly affect the efficiency of the camera. Nikon D1x can continuously shoot for 4 seconds in RAW format. RAW format always 12 bit and has a compression level setting: compressed \ not compressed RAW.

Attention: there is a firmware update for Nikon D1x which allows

  • increase frame buffer up to 14 RAW files and up to 21 JPEG File
  • You can set the compression level of RAW
  • Software can convert 12 bit RAW in pictures with 16-bit color depth
  • You can save pictures with 10.5MP
  • New firmware costs over 200 cu
Example photo on Nikon D1x

Example photo on Nikon D1x

Attention: D1x supports CF cards up to 2GB only. D1x couldn't process my card CF 4GB and especially 32GB. In RAW format, the camera can hold a total of 256 images. One RAW file weighs approximately 8MB.

Example photo on Nikon D1x

Example photo on Nikon D1x

Features of automatic white balance

Automatic white balance in the cells Nikon D1h, D1x can shift a lot into cold tones. From this Nikon received the label 'Nikon blue'. If you switch BB in another mode, for example, in 'cloudy' or 'shade', then everything falls into place. I showed an example of 'blue' in the photo below - WB Shadow rendered colors almost correctly as they are in real life.

Auto White Balance Blue

Automatic white balance sinitis

Personal experience:

A true professional camera. Nikon D1x is a huge leap forward in camera engineering from 2.6mp in Nikon D1, D1h up to 5.33 on the Nikon D1x. I watched Nikon D1x instead of mine Nikon D200but in D1x I really get confused by a very bad battery, lack of support for large memory cards, lack of flash (not as flash as its command mode), very small display on which it will be difficult to show something to the client. And Nikon D1x is not able to work in matrix metering. exposure with manual optics, and focus points are not enough. And as for a professional flagship camera, the viewfinder is quite small and does not cover 100% of the field of view. In short, by today's standards, the Nikon D1x is not suitable for professional use. I liked the color reproduction in the pictures with Nikon D1x.

Example photo on Nikon D1x

Example photo on Nikon D1x

Gossip

  • Rumor has it that gum stretches on all Nikon cameras from old age. Nikon D1x does not apply to such cameras, its gum is still in place.
  • Rumor has it that from age Nikon D1x loses its ability to work on shutter speed in 1 \ 16000s. This is not so, my copy in the manual camera control mode shows a different histogram for the same picture taken at 1 \ 8000s and 1 \ 16000s.
  • Rumor has it that different Nikon cameras have different focusing motors. Using Nikon D1x, I was convinced of this. The focusing motor is very strong, turns the 'screwdriver' very quickly, in comparison with other cameras it stands out for its aggressiveness and strength.
  • The Nikon D1x is rumored to be blue - yes it is. An example of not quite correct BB shown above.
  • There are rumors that updated firmware allows you to take pictures with 16 bit color depth, it’s not, the camera continues to shoot with 12-bit RAW, and the updated Nikon Capture software can take 16-bit pictures from snapshots.
  • Rumor has it that updated firmware allows you to shoot 9 frames per second in JPEG or TIFF and 6 frames per second in RAW (NEF)... I did not check this, but my opinion is that the camera processor physically could not squeeze 9 fps, it can barely cope with this Nikon D3.
Example photo on Nikon D1x

Example photo on Nikon D1x

Sample photos on Nikon D1x

All sample photos in this D1x review are unprocessed, only the size is reduced and the data from EXIF... Regarding the noise of the matrix - here original shot at ISO 3200.


Prices for modern Nikon cameras in popular stores can look at this link.

Comments on this post do not require registration. Anyone can leave a comment. Many different photographic equipment can be found on AliExpress.

Conclusions

Nikon D1x - a very unusual old camera that can still please with excellent image quality. Can be used for photo experiments. It is very morally outdated at the present time.

Material prepared Arkady Shapoval. Training/Consultations | Youtube | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Telegram

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Comments: 133, on the topic: Review Nikon D1x

  • Vsevolod

    to the point of струк instruction in our movs?
    throw on vsevolod@mail.ru
    crazy!

  • flueg

    This can come in handy for many: http://www.flickr.com/photos/27214411@N05/4415364819/

  • flueg

    Battery replacement for more advanced: http://www.jmknights.com/photography/downloads/files/EN4_Lion_battery.pdf

  • flueg

    An example of the improvement of the D1x matrix in the FUJIFILM FinePix S3 Pro camera (the “fading” - the FUJIFILM FinePix S5 Pro is somewhat worse ... ..).

  • flueg

    It is impossible to agree with the opinion of this pro only in one thing (the number of effective megapixels - the camera has access to several algorithms ... and the output is always different, so it is so good) Alexey Noskov's opinion: Experience of use : more than a year
    Advantages: - unique "live" color rendering; - wide dynamic range, better than many modern DSLRs; - one of a kind hardware HDR (for different types of cells per pixel); - weak AA filter, giving excellent sharpness and detail; - “soft” cotton of the mirror, vibration is practically not felt; - nice film-like noise at high ISO; - excellent ergonomics, relatively small size (despite the form factor of top reportage DSLRs) and weight; - powered by 4 AA-elements, such can be found in almost any wilderness; - you can use two types of memory cards (CF and xD); - support for almost any Nikon optics - from old "screwdriver" lenses to modern G-optics
    Disadvantages: - the declared 12MP are interpolated, in reality there is about 8MP; - weak plastic of the camera mode selector, easily damaged (however, its performance remains at the same time); - work with mechanical lenses (without a contact group or "blown") is possible only in M-mode, I would like to have a working priority of the aperture; - writes RAW files slowly; - rather small viewfinder, it is very difficult to focus manually on manual lenses; - unpretentious autofocus, by modern standards, completely uncooked; - the camera actively discharges its batteries even when it is turned off.
    Commentary: This unique camera is especially suitable for those who appreciate the rich color palette of CCD cameras. At the same time, the Fuji S3 sensor is unique in itself and allows you to capture a maximum of light and color nuances - in this parameter it is on a par with digital backs, second only in resolution and detail.
    Anton Noskov

  • Jury

    It's too bad that there are no tests of old film cameras. Very sorry…

  • flueg

    A decent small-format slide can be obtained only with very serious investments, the negative is no longer able to compete with the modern figure (semi-professional and higher). The format is medium and higher requires even more investments and not only financial ones (this is only for the pros ...). There is no sense to discuss film devices (brands have stopped producing topslide scanners, and budget is not relevant ....)

  • Olga

    Interesting note, thank you very much. Nastalgia! Nikon d1x is my first digital camera. Then there was d200, d300, d700, and now d4. The old woman was left lying in the closet ... Do you think she can still be sold? And how to evaluate it? She was in 2005, bought in Japan, menu in English. At the largest ISO, a thin strip of dead pixels can be seen in the frame. Nl only with large ISO. Does anyone need this?
    Olga

  • flueg

    O lge It's bad that the batteries are in a hopeless…. The broken ones can migrate ... and even completely “disappear” ... There is no time for this camera (I would like to know the real mileage ...) Prices on Ebay are from 50 to 400

    • anonym

      Can I download firmware for 10MP from somewhere?

  • Sergei

    On my D1, a 4GB card was recognized after formatting.
    (Formatted through the menu of the device.)

    • Andy

      And it became after formatting 2Gb. And everything is OK. So?

  • Vladimir

    Olga write on soap mesedg@gmail.com we will agree

  • Michael

    Who has instructions in Russian, please drop off by e-mail - misha_dutchak2@mail.ru
    I will be very grateful

  • Hleb

    I bought the old man D1x for the collection and was very surprised that it is quite possible for him to shoot. The main camera I have is the D800 - regarding comparisons, the D800 is unconditionally better in everything, but in good lighting conditions the D1x is quite close in dynamic range. I will give an example of night shots https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xpf1/t31.0-8/10572177_683161815092501_3913292504029352620_o.jpg The processing in the NC NX2 can draw a lot and the NEF as a whole are drawn well.
    Actually, for the sake of which I began to write a comment - when buying, I got the original and non-original batteries, both of which pulled no more than 60-80 shots. I made both batteries 1 refresh cycle using a standard charger and as a result, the original battery lasts for 200-250 shots, and not the original one for 350. Keep in mind - Nickel-cadmium and Nickel-metal hybrid batteries, like in D1x, cannot be fully charged discharged, you must definitely do Refresh. The hitch is that the camera does not completely discharge the battery, after the camera is turned off, the charger makes the Refres battery about 15 minutes.
    The second important note is that the SB-910 flash with D1x works only in TTL mode, it does not work in i-TTL mode. SB-800 and SB-600 in i-TTL work. I have not tested other flashes. There is an impression that the VR function in Nikon's optics with D1x also does not work checked at 16-35 and 28-300, but I can be wrong here. In sigma optics, OS works with D1x, checked for 150-500 and 105. Rubber bands - I got a camera with swollen rubber bands and without an elastic band on the memory card cover. He treated swollen gums by soaking in Galosha gasoline for 10 minutes. Not more!!! and a subsequent double-scotch sticker. I was looking for an elastic band on the lid on ebay for a month and a half, like I found it, on the way, but for not adequate money. By the way, there are no new rubber bands on sale.

    In general, I really like the camera, I use it to enjoy photography. Something like that…

    • The Hedgehog

      Thanks for the interesting review :-))

  • anonym

    Paid for show-offs. The lock jammed in two months. Junk !!!

  • Anatoly

    Well, there is the property of metal getting tired! It’s my fault. You have to pay for the show-off !!!

  • Mikita

    A possible reason for jamming is a low battery. I, in moments like this, connect my own power adapter. These locks go - well, for a very long time.

  • Novel

    Tell me on paid firmware. Can I download it now, can I flash it myself. They say that some kind of paid software was bundled. In general, more about the firmware version?

  • Vladimir

    Alive old man in capable hands, alive!
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5tGVPn0DW8&t=212s
    There is practically a new D1X in its original packaging, I will sell it “expensive” ((:, a package of new CD cards from Samsung as a gift!

  • Andrei

    The killed Nikon D1 fell into my hands.
    I could not resist, I took it apart: inside the Motorola programmable controller, a processor with the Nikon inscription and the most interesting 10-bit AD7171 analog-to-digital converter. Apparently a 12-bit RAV is interpolated by a processor from a 10-bit source.
    Most likely the D1X has the same inside.

    • R'RёS,R ° F "RёR№

      And where does the analog signal come from? From the matrix or what? I have never heard of an analog matrix :)))
      The ADC is most likely worth a diaphragm sensor.

      • Onotole

        Yeah, and the matrix is ​​digital and the light is also digital. And the lenses too - they have the same aperture switches in steps that are multiples of two in light transmission! So digital too. And analog ones - only those in which the aperture ring does not click.

        • R'RёS,R ° F "RёR№

          Cool, but 7171 16 bit. But only if you digitize the image using it, there can be no question of a few frames per second. Wise guys, damn it.

  • Andrei

    I made a mistake in the previous letter.
    Nikon has ADV7171 10-bit ADC for video.
    AD7171 16-bit audio ADC, this is from a completely different opera :)
    I wonder what ADCs are in the first units of Canon.

    • R'RёS,R ° F "RёR№

      Read datasheets better and don't fool people's heads. Audio ADC with a sampling frequency of 125 Hz, PAL / NTSC video decoder for RAV digitization ... Lavrov is recalled ...

    • R'RёS,R ° F "RёR№

      * discretization. AutoCorrect pancake.

  • Andrei

    I agree, this is a converter from digital to analog PAL signal.
    I admit my mistake, but why is it used in a digital camera?

    • Arkady Shapoval

      Connect the camera to the TV

  • pchel

    The device is not flashed, but Capture 4 saves jpg 10,51 MP. ViewNX-i and CaptureNX cannot do this, only 5,9 MP.

  • pchel

    The battery to the D1X through a simple alteration turns into a lithium battery of 2 cells 18650.
    IMG_20180923_210913

    • andrex

      Where can I find specific information on conversion to lithium? Photo or video preferred. And then I with my crooked handles ...)))

      • st_tsourkan

        If interested, write to the mail (s.tsourkan@gmail.com), I can send a photo of the converted battery. I did not redo it myself, such a battery has already arrived with a camera.

        There is nothing complicated there - we disassemble the case, saw off the top (so that you can insert 18650), we output the wires to the battery contacts (to those that go to the camera), providing a simple serial connection of two lithium batteries :)

  • Nazarіy

    I have such a monster, still gloriously running. I took it on Ali), but gentlemen, the Chinese confused something, and the option of an Infrared camera came to me. Fortunately, there was a desire to try something new in the photo environment. So very helpful. I wanted to say about batteries. With the camera came 2 Akum. Relatives. Even at their age, more than 200 shots from a single charge were clearly practiced.
    Thank you Arkady for your work.

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