Very much as expected, Nikon has updated their Coolpix 5700, with the 8700 model, the major difference being the 8 megapixel instead of the 5 megapixel sensor, plus some other changes, including a larger display CCD. This remains a fairly lightweight camera, at just over one pound. That it's an 8X zoom, EFL 35-280/2.8-4.2, when compared to the Lumix LMC FZ10, has to be considered in light of a larger sensor size for the Nikon, 2/3" vs. 1/2.5" for the 12X, EFL 35-420/2.8 for the Leica-lensed Panasonic competition. Clearly the Nikon will be more expensive, list price likely to equal the Sony DSC-F828 now on shelves at $999. Of these three mentioned, ONLY the Panasonic has active image stabilization, a BIG difference, and also a feature I'd be surprised not to see when Canon soon introduces its new camera in this extended zoom class.
Further details are becoming available for the Nikon D70, set to compete with the Canon Digital Rebel, as a full-fledged DSLR, including the introduction of a reasonably priced 18-70/3.5-4.5 zoom lens, EFL 27-105, the combination costing $1300, though for any real bird work one would also need that Nikon 80-400/4/5-5.6VR lens featured on this board, bringing the total cost of such a basic two lens outfit up to around $2800, though this would cover a 35 mm equivalent range of 27 to 600 mm.
Further details are becoming available for the Nikon D70, set to compete with the Canon Digital Rebel, as a full-fledged DSLR, including the introduction of a reasonably priced 18-70/3.5-4.5 zoom lens, EFL 27-105, the combination costing $1300, though for any real bird work one would also need that Nikon 80-400/4/5-5.6VR lens featured on this board, bringing the total cost of such a basic two lens outfit up to around $2800, though this would cover a 35 mm equivalent range of 27 to 600 mm.
