Is it true Nikon is coming out with a new line in the next year or two?

Question

I have a Nikon D80, 10.2 mgp

And I really want to upgrade to a Nikon D300, its like 6,000$ though.

But I don't want to start investing in in D300 if Nikon plans on a new line soon, anyone know?

Answer 1

If it was a point & shoot camera you were looking at, I'd be saying try in the next 4 months or so. But you're looking at DSLR cameras, and those take a long ~long~ time to change over (for the most part). Generally, it depends on a couple little things, like the popularity of the camera, the quality of the camera, and also what it leaves lacking and just how much "new stuff" is available to pack into the next model.

When Nikon went and replaced the D2Xs with the D3, they were throwing in not only the larger FX-format sensor, but also better noise reduction algorithms, larger screen, live view... numberous different things that Nikon felt would greatly improve the pro-quality of that camera line.

Similarly, when Nikon replaced the D200 with the D300, again they were doing more than just increasing the megapixels. They were making many improvements to the camera.

There are reasons why D80 has not been replaced ~just~ yet. Namely, the fact that it has been at times consistently sold out. While D80 does leave a couple things to be desired, such as that 12 megapixel point and better noise reduction, it has actually been almost exactly what many people in North America have been looking for when it comes to size, weight, and capability. For that reason, D80 has remained untouched by Nikon for so long after the rest of the lineup has been advanced higher. Even cameras like Nikon's D40X received upgrades before D80.

Generally, DSLRs will have a lifespan of approximately 1-2 years in the lower/starter ranks, and 2-3 years in the higher ranks. With the current lineup as capable as it is, though, I do not forsee any of them having major improvements any time soon, especially since with 12 megapixels you essentially can print most any size print between 4x6 inch and 24x36 inch.

If you're looking at the D3, I would honestly say go for it. At the pro level, it is a very sought-after camera.

Answer 2

Like all technology, cameras are constantly getting better... so yes, Nikon will come out with a new camera.

The D300 does not cost $6000 though, it's only about $1700. The D3 is about $4800.

Answer 3

The D300 is under $1,700.  I have one and it is only surpassed by the Nikon D3 ($5,000)

For now, you will not see any new bridge-pro or pro Nikon's for another 18 months at least.  Unlike the P&S cameras which are updated about every four to six months, the high level of technology that is necessary to produce a truely new Pro camera lengthens that time.  The only possible camera to be updated would be the D80 since it has been marketed for over 22 months, so it is due ... IF Nikon continues producing an in between camera line ... in between the entry level cameras (under $800 with lens) and the high end cameras (over $1,200 body only).

None of the other camera makers have a camera in that price range.