Should I buy a CMOS or CCD digital back?

Over the past few years, the medium format industry has evolved thanks to Sony’s CMOS sensor breakthroughs. Phase One has been able to take Sony’s base sensor and transform it into the imaging powerhouse it has become known as today. The Phase One IQ250 digital back was a game changer in 2014 with it’s ability to shoot high ISO images with low noise and utilize precise medium format lenses.

Phase One, from the day they were founded, has always put image quality at the forefront of every one of their products. Up until now CMOS technology had not been able to keep up with this demand of image quality until Phase One and Sony partnered to produce the 100mp & 50mp sensors. These new sensors combined with Phase One’s custom image algorithm gives us spot on color just like CCD sensors but with all the added benefits of a CMOS sensor.

Digital back models utilizing CCD sensors lack low light capability and could be frustrating if you needed a low noise image over 400 ISO. If you’re primarily shooting in the studio with controlled lighting, CCD backs produce amazing 16-bit raw files that far outpace any 35mm DSLR’s image quality.
 
If live scene view, faster shooting rate, low light capability, better battery performance or 60+ minute long exposures are important for your work – then a CMOS digital back is your best tool.  

Current Phase One digital backs:
CCD sensor: IQ3/2/1 40mp, 60mp, 80mp digital backs
CMOS sensor: IQ3/2/1 50mp, 100mp digital backs
 
Phase One digital backs come in two different sensor sizes:
Cropped sensor (1.3 lens factor): IQ3/2/1 40mp, 50mp backs
Full frame sensor: IQ3/2/1 60mp, 80mp, 100mp digital backs

Phase One currently manufactures new 50mp, 80mp and 100mp backs. We have refurbished models available if you’re looking for an entry level 40mp or 60mp CCD sensor system under $10,000. An entry level CMOS medium format system can cost around $20,000 at the time of this article.
 
We believe you should expect more from your camera system and even more from whom you purchase it from. All refurbished equipment we sell is in excellent condition with at minimum a manufacturer’s 1-year warranty and all new accessories. New clients receive complimentary 2 hour training and have unlimited phone and email support.
 

Why purchase from Digital Transitions?

• Join the DT community of 1000’s of other professional photographers, enthusiasts, and others shooting Phase One.
• Equipment installation & workflow optimization
• Customized camera system & Capture One software training
• Multiple Phase One Partner of the Year & Phase One Support Partner of the Year 2015
In-person & Online Training Courses
• Access to Technical Support whenever you need it: Phone, Email, FaceTime, and Remote Computer Access
Generous trade-in and upgrade program
• One stop shopping. We also carry Cambo, Arca-Swiss, Profoto, Eizo and more accessories for your system.

Ready to get started shooting with Phase One and join the DT community or do you have more questions?

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