However, there was a gap to be filled - and for most N-Photo readers it was the biggest gap of all. Where were the high-end DX-format D-SLRs to replace the D7000 and D300s?
The answer, is seems, is the D7100, and the specifications are stunning. The 24-megapixel sensor is the obvious starting point. It isn't the same sensor as we have seen in the Nikon D5200 or the D3200, it's a completely new device that has been built to Nikon's own specification. And there's no optical low-pass (anti-aliasing) filter over the sensor Oust like on the D800E), which should mean higher levels of fine detail.
Comparisons with the existing D7000 and D300s are inevitable, especially since Nikon says the older cameras will continue. The improved sensor is only one of the differences. One key improvement over the D7000 is the D7100 provides weather sealing so should be able to carry on shooting in more challenging conditions (as the D300s can). The D7100 also gets Nikon's advanced Multi-CAM 3500DX AF module, which has 51 AF points, with the central 15 being cross-type. This is the fifth SLR in Nikon's line-up to feature an AF system that can be used with lenses that have a maximum aperture of f/8. It means that the autofocus will function with a greater number of telephoto lenses when used with a teleconverter — ideal for sports and wildlife fans.
The D7100's new 1.3x crop mode is especially interesting. When this is selected the imaging area is almost completely covered by the 51 AF points and the maximum continuous shooting rate is boosted from a respectable 6fps to 7fps. The crop mode is indicated by a frame in the viewfinder, and means a total effective crop factor of 1.95x - so a 200mm lens gives the angle of view of a traditional 390mm SLR lens.
This crop mode can also be used in still or video mode and it allows Full HD movies to be shot at 50i or 601 for smoother recording of action or slow-motion playback. When shooting videos in DX format the frame rate is limited to a more common 30, 25 or 24p.
The metering is handled by the same 2016-pixel sensor as you'll find in the D7000, and an Expeed 3 processor is used to handle the larger file sizes. The native sensitivity range is IS0100-6400, but it can be expanded to IS025,600.
Build and handling
Despite the addition of weather sealing, the D7100 is actually a little lighter than the D7000. It also feels more solid, and textured coatings on the front and rear grips make it feel comfortable and secure in the hand.
Nikon has added a lock-button mode to the mode dial to prevent accidental exposure mode changes. Like the D600, the D7100 has its Live View switch located near the bottom of the back of the camera. There are two settings, one for stills and one for video Live View mode. Pressing the Lv button at the centre of the switch activates the Live View feed.
This change to the button layout has meant that the video activation button has had to be relocated and, as with Nikon's other recent D-SLRs, it is near the shutter release button. Sports shooters will be disappointed, however, that there is still no separate AF On button at the back — one of the much-loved features of the D300s.
Nikon has introduced a new 1' button at the bottom-left of the back of the D7100. Pressing this allows quick access to some key features such as the 1.3x Crop mode, Picture Control mode and HDR mode. It's a useful addition that complements the healthy collection of direct controls.
The screen size has been boosted to 3.2 inches and a resolution of 1,229,000 dots. We were only able to use a pre-production sample of the camera indoors, but the screen seems a good performer and it doesn't suffer excessively from reflections when used near a bright window. It uses a new, high-intensity `RGBW' design for extra brilliance.
Our first impressions are that the D7100's contrast detection system is a little quicker and more decisive than we have found with cameras such as the Nikon D5200, though we'll want to get a sample in for review before we make any proper comparisons.
Performance
So far we have only been able to use a pre-production sample of the Nikon D7100 and while the early signs are good, we will have to wait for a full-production model before we can comment on the quality of the images it produces.
Nikon's other 24-megapixel D-SLRs, the D3200 and D5200, have impressed us with their resolution, dynamic range and high ISO performance, so we have high hopes for the D7100. Because it doesn't have an anti-aliasing filter it will be particularly interesting to see how much detail the D7100 can resolve.
In fact, this raises another question, Before, the only obvious step up for quality-conscious Nikon owners with a DX-format camera was to go full-frame with the 13600. But now the D7100 matches the bigger camera's resolution and lets owners carry on using their DX lenses without having to invest in new ones.
Normally, we'd expect a full-frame camera to outperform an APS-C camera, but the removal of the anti-aliasing filter in the D7100 means the difference could be a lot smaller.
We will want to scrutinise the darker midtones and shadows of high sensitivity images, however, to check for any signs of the banding issues which some users have reported with the D5200.
Early verdict
Nikon has created a small yet solid camera that is pitched perfectly at serious photo enthusiasts. It fills one of the last gaps in Nikon's refreshed camera range - arguably the most important gap of all. We all strive for the best possible image quality, but we don't all have the budget for a full-frame camera like the D600.
The weather sealing is a nice touch that allows the user to carry on shooting when others have to pack up and head home, but it's interesting to note that the D7100 does not have the all-metal chassis and professional control layout of the D300s, re-igniting the debate about the pros, cons and likelihood of an update to Nikon's only professional DX-format camera. The D7100's limited buffer capacity at 6fps (9 frames in RAW), also seems small compared with 20 frames on the D300s at 7fps (although, obviously, you get only 12 million pixels).
Given the D7100's high pixel count the decision to include a 1.3x crop and omit the anti-aliasing filter is sensible. The former will allow tighter framing of the subject (this could also be achieved by cropping) and a faster continuous shooting rate, while the latter suggests we may get the highest level of detail ever seen in an APS-C-format camera. Deep source review: teachradar.com
Nikon D7100 24.1 MP DX-Format CMOS Digital SLR with 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX VR ED Nikkor Lens
24.1 megapixed DX-format image sensor
Shoot up to 6 frames per second for up to 100 continuous shots
Wireless sharing and control with WU-1a adapter (not included)
ISO range from 100 to 6400
1080p videos with full-time autofocus and built-in stereo mic
More specification and price
