Mamiya Introduces new DM56 digital camera

The heart of the DM56 system is the new "DF" camera-core technology, developed by Mamiya, featuring two user-selectable shutter systems: leaf or focal plane. In demanding daylight situations, photographers can use predictable high speed flash synchronization to fill-in or overpower even the brightest ambient light on one of three new leaf-shuttered lenses designed by Schneider-Kreuznach and manufactured by Mamiya. The lenses, available in focal lengths of 55mm, 80mm, and 110mm, deliver an effective maximum flash sync speed of up to 1/1600th of a second. For more conventional situations, photographers can choose any one of 15 other world-class Mamiya optics, from 28mm to 300mm APO, designed for use with the cameras’ focal plane shutter system.

The camera features a 56 megapixel sensor, and is precision-matched to new optics designed by renowned lens maker Schneider-Kreuznach. "The results have created a new standard for digital images," says Mamiya Product Marketing Manager Mike Edwards. "The large sensor, 56x36mm, coupled with a 16 bit/channel color palette, provides exceptional color accuracy and rich high dynamic range images in just a single capture. Other digital camera systems simply cannot compare."

Regardless of shutter choice, photographers can look forward to the DM56’s faster autofocus technology, open-platform back selection, improved ergonomics, and performance accuracy.

Mamiya recognizes that stellar camera performance is of little value without equally powerful software options.

"That’s why we offer the flexibility of choosing from the world’s largest selection of professional Raw file processing solutions," continues Edwards, "and that is why we have included both Phase One’s Capture One and Leaf Capture. Or, photographers can choose to use 3rd-party software such as Adobe Lightroom. The power of software choice is in photographers’ hands, where it should be."

The Mamiya DM56 continues Mamiya’s reputation of perfecting the professional modular camera system for the ultimate in versatility. Mix-and-match components as needed — perhaps a traditional DM configuration today; then if the photographer wishes, use it with a Mamiya RZ or 3rd-party view camera system tomorrow by using optional adapters.

The new DM56 has an estimated street price of $32,490, and is being introduced at the same time as the DM33, with a street price of $19,990. Both cameras come with the sharp 80mm f/2.8 D Series lens, focal plane shutter, and are fully compatible with any Mamiya AF focal plane series lens. The DM33 also features Mamiya’s new Guaranteed Trade-Up Program, which offers purchasers of new Mamiya digital products the peace of mind of knowing they can safely choose the right product for their specific needs.

Both the DM56 and DM33 are scheduled to begin shipments in November, and feature 6×7 touchscreens, with the DM56 fitted with a 9288 x 6000 pixel sensor measuring 56 x 36mm, with an ISO range of 80-800. The DM33’s sensor has 6726 x 5040 pixels and measures 48 x 36mm, with an ISO range of 50-800.