When Phase One announced it was launching a 100-megapixel CMOS full frame medium format back for its XF system, we didn't think it would be too long before Hasselblad responded. The new H6D is that response, and the Swedish firm says the camera, which comes in 50 and 100-megapixel options and can shoot video at up to 4K resolutions, has been rebuilt with an all-new electronic platform.
Rather than simply improving on the existing H5D camera, Hasselblad says it has gone back to the drawing board with the H6D, with the result being an all-new medium format camera which offers a number of improvements, while retaining the modularity medium format that users expect. The camera will be available with either H6D-50c or H6D-100c digital backs, offering 50 and 100-megapixel shooting.
As there are a couple of differences between the H6D-50c and H6D-100c other than their megapixel count, we'll start off by looking at what specifications the cameras share. This includes new-generation processors and a new electronic platform which has been designed to handle large file throughput with speed and ease. To cope with the large files there are dual card slots, with the cameras each taking one CFast card and one SD.
Around back there are 3-inch touch-screens with 920k dot resolutions and a stylish interface which looks like it's come from a Leica T. The H6D cameras also feature a USB 3.0 Type-C connector for fast transfer rates and tethering, along with Wi-Fi connectivity. The duo have a shutter speed range of 60 minutes to 1/2000th of a second and are compatible with Hasselblad's Phocus 3.0 image processing software and the H system lens line, which is getting an update to match the faster shutter speeds of the H6D.
Now to the differences. While the 100-megapixel count of the H6D-100c is obviously larger, so are the physical dimensions of its sensor. It measures 53.4 × 40.0 mm, meaning it offers an almost full field-of-view from medium format full frame lenses, just like that we saw in the Phase One XF 100MP.
The H6D-100c also offers 15 stops of dynamic range and has an ISO range of 64 to 12,800. The camera can shoot at speeds of up to 1.5 fps (frames per second) and brings 4K video capability to medium format, being able to shoot at up to 4K UHD at 30 fps.
Meanwhile, the 50-megapixel sensor of the H6D-50c measures 43.8 x 32.9 mm and offers 14 stops of dynamic range. Its ISO range is also a reduced 100 to 6,400, however, it does boast a faster shooting rate of up to 2.5 fps. Video recording is limited to 2K HD video at 30 fps.
As you'd expect of Hasselblads, the H6D cameras do not come cheap. Both are expected to be available in June with the H6D-50c priced at €22,900 (or US$26,000), and the H6D-100c €28,900 ($33,000).
You can check out a promo vide for the Hasselblad H6D below.
Product pages: Hasselblad H6D-100c, H6D-50c
