Product ReviewsDigital cameras
The 10-megapixel D60 is Nikon's newest addition to its consumer DSLRs and replaces the D40x. Although it shares a 10.2-megapixel resolution CCD and has a similar body design to its predecessor, the new model brings with it several major improvements, as well as a host of subtle enhancements. The main ones include a sophisticated automated sensor cleaning system, faster continuous shooting, an Active D-Lighting option found on the pro-level D3 and the addition of optical image stabilisation in the form a new 18-55mm VR (IS) kit lens. Other features include a proximity sensor to power-down the 2.5in LCD when using the optical viewfinder, along with several new additions to the Retouch menu. As well as a post-capture Raw conversion option that could come in handy if you've mistakenly selected Raw while not intending to process them with a computer, there are also red, green and blue intensifier filters, and a cross-screen (star-pattern) option. Unlike its rivals, Nikon has been slow to implement auto sensor cleaning in its DSLRs, and the D60 is the first of its entrylevel models to do so. Like the high-end 12-megapixel D300 and new compact full-frame D700, dust particles are shaken from the surface of the low-pass filter covering the image sensor using high-frequency (ultrasonic) vibration. In addition to this, the D60 adopts a completely new airflow control system. This cleverly removes air from in front of the sensor towards a series of ducts in the base of the mirror box. Not only does this draw the distracting dust particles away from the sensor but, it's claimed, should also prevent them from settling back on the CCD's surface. It's certainly innovative and in our time with the D60 we saw none of the tell-tale shadows that signify dust in our snaps, despite some leisurely lens changes. Like
While the camera body feels exceptionally solid, with the odd creak here and there of the plastic outer casing, the same can't quite be said of the new kit lens. Even so, the overall construction is a notch or two above the Canon EOS 450D Auto-focus operation is still only limited to AF-S lenses, which is a pity, but the new 18-55 VR (2880mm equivalent) zoom is quick and reasonably quiet in operation. The D60 also sticks with the three, albeit large, focus-detection points of the previous offerings. While they're accurate and adequate for the majority of shooting situations, the widely spaced AF points aren't as useful as the excellent seven-point system found on the EOS 450D. The big difference between the D60's kit lens and the previous version is the addition of optical image stabilisation. Its inclusion has made the lens a lot chunkier, but it doesn't detract from the overall handling. We were able to hold the camera for 1/15 sec at the long end of zoom and get acceptably sharp shots. The fact that the optical stabilisation is integral to the lens, rather than the body means you'll have to budget for pricier lenses if you want optical stabilisation from these. Although we couldn't test side-by-side, output from the D60 seems punchier looking than that of the D40x. Noise levels are well controlled too, though the maximum ISO 1600 sensitivity remains unchanged. Like the earlier D40x, a Hi option provides a speckled but occasionally usable one-stop boost, roughly the equivalent of an ISO3200 setting. Over and above the six-megapixel D40, which remains in Nikon's range for the time being, the addition of the new features on the D60 make for a more logical and compelling step up than the D40x did. With picture quality equalling the mid-range D80, the diminutive D60 would make a handy second body or, indeed, a solid choice for anyone trading up from a digital compact. By Kevin Carter
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