After a few weeks of official (and unofficial) teasing, Hasselblad has officially lifted the veil on its “game-changing” camera. It’s called the X1D and, as the rumors suggested, it’s a mirrorless medium-format camera that packs quite the punch for its size.
Inside the camera is a 50-megapixel sensor that offers up to 14 stops of dynamic range and an ISO range from 100–25,600. Images can be captured in sRGB and AdobeRGB color spaces and in JPEG, TIFF, and RAW (3FR) formats. In addition to shooting massive stills, the 44mm by 33mm sensor is also capable of capturing 1080/30p HD video.
For focusing images onto the sensor, Hasselblad has developed a new line of XCD lenses. For the time being, Hasselblad has created a 45mm f/3.5 and 90mm f/4.5 lens, with more expected to arrive “shortly” after launch.
Thanks to the internal leaf shutter, full flash synchronization is available throughout the entire range of available speeds, from 60 minutes to 1/2,000th of a second. With the help of an extra adapter, Hasselblad says its entire range of H-series lenses will be compatible with the X1D.
The X1D includes a built-in XGA electronic viewfinder and offers a spacious three-inch 920k-dot touch-screen on the back for navigating the menu system and sorting through images.
Wireless connectivity includes built-in GPS and Wi-Fi, while dual SD card slots are used for storing captured images on the device.
Although it’s smaller in size than most medium-format cameras, Hasselblad notes that its weight remains almost identical to its larger counterpoints, tipping the scales at 725 grams (roughly 1.6 pounds).
The Hasselblad will retail for $9,000 when purchased as only a body. Kits will cost $11,300 and $14,000 depending on whether you opt for the 45mm f/3.5 or 90mm f/4.5 lens, respectively. A la carte, the 45mm f/3.5 will retail for $2,300 while the 90mm f/4.5 will set you back $2,700.
The X1D system is set to be shown off throughout the month of July, with delivery expected for August 2016.
