Sigma is not as popular as Nikon or Canon in the world of digital camera, especially in the D-SLR category. Everybody watch closely when Nikon unveiled its newest full frame cameras, the Nikon D4 and D800. As we know, most of photography enthusiasts are excited with all the high-end technology embedded on the cameras. And I’m one of them who expect the coming of Nikon D800, and it’s still in my top wish list. Featuring 36MP sensor, the Nikon D800 is expected to be available in March for $3000. Back to Sigma, actually the company has D-SLR camera with larger sensor at 46MP, named Sigma SD1, but they set the price of the camera high (Amazon price: $6,899). To compete with Nikon and Canon, Sigma has finished a great work by releasing the SD1 Merill, the same SD1 D-SLR camera but with cheaper price.

So why Merill? Sigma want to honor and recognize Richard “Dick” Merrill, the late co-creator of the Foveon X3 Direct Image Sensor Technology which adopted by the SD1 D-SLR camera. Is it just renamed? yes, it has the same features, performance, and specification as the Sigma SD1. Scheduled to be available in March 2012, the price-tag of SD1 Merill will be set at $3,300 MSRP.

You may ask what the Foveon is? As described by Sigma, the Foveon X3 Direct Image Sensor is the world’s only full-color sensor that captures R, G, B color components within each pixel location. The method delivers improved resolution, richer expression of gradation, and enhance the three-dimensional impression. Other highlights you can expect from SD1 Merill: Splash proof design; 46 megapixel True II Image processing engine; CFcard; Magnesium alloy body; a 3.0′ TFT color LCD Monitor.

Are you feeling lucky? Find the Sigma SD1 Merill at Amazon.com.