DxO Labs has tested the D800E and given it a 96, the highest score awarded to date by the independent test lab. When DxO tested the D800 last March, they awarded it a 95. The two tests are so similar they conclude the results are “practically identical.” The differences between the D800 and D800e are small and the tests show this in absolute numbers. DxO notes the slight differences in color depth would be indistinguishable to the human eye. The slight difference in ISO sensitivity “is within measurement tolerances.”

DxO has yet to release their in-depth tests, which will include lens tests. This will reveal more information about differences in sharpness and moire patterns between the D800 and D800e.

•  DxO: Nikon D800E nabs top ranking from D800

Today Nikon announced the 24-85mm F3.5-4.5G ED VR full frame lens. This lens provides a 3.6x zoom range from wide angle to medium telephoto in a compact package. Vibration Reduction (VR II) assures sharp results in low light situations as well as providing stabilization for video recording. The integrated Silent Wave Motor (SWM) provides fast and quiet auto focus. Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass increases contrast while three aspherical lens elements reduce distortion.

There are a total of 16 lens elements in 11 groups. The seven-bladed aperture diaphragm  stops down to f/22 to f/29 throughout the zoom range. The minimum focus distance is 1.25 feet (0.38m) and maximum reproduction ratio of 0.22x. The lens uses a 72mm filter size. Overall dimensions are a compact 3.1-inch diameter by 3.2-inch length. The 24-85mm weighs in at just over one pound (16.4 oz). The lens carries a $599 suggested retail price.

• Pre-Order Nikon 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G VR at Amazon.com

May 29, 2012 — Nikon Releases Firmware A:1.00 / B:1.01 for Nikon D800 and D4. The firmware update addresses three issues on the D800. The first issue is the occasional lock up experienced by some Nikon D800 uses when reviewing pictures with histogram enabled. The camera could possibly lock up and fail to respond, even when the power switch was turned to the off position. Removing the battery was required to reset the camera. The short term fix was to disable histogram; the new firmware fixes the issue.

The second issue involves the Wireless Transmitter WT-4. With certain settings, RAW images would to transfer even through the mode was set to JPEG only. This issue is fixed with the new firmware.

The final issue is a dark line that was sometimes created at the bottom of the image when using a combination of Active D-Lighting and picture area aspect ratio 5:4. The new firmware resolves this issue.

You can download the updated D800 firmware from Nikon USA:

Download Nikon D800 Firmware Update A:1.00 B:1.01

The Nikon D800E is now available at Best Buy for in-store pickup. You can order the D800E (SKU 5483754) and pick it up from your local store. Many stores are currently showing that it can be available in-store in 5-7 days. Select “Check Stores” on the D800E item page on BestBuy.com to find store locations and delivery estimates.

Best Buy has separate inventory for retail stores and their Internet fulfillment. Best Buy’s regional distribution system that allows individual stores to order and receive inventory separate from their web site order (direct to customer) fulfillment. The fastest way to get a D800E now is to order online but choose to pick up in-store at your local Best Buy store.

Previously Best Buy only listed the D800 and not the D800E available for sale. Nikon has been reported to only allow specific dealers access to the D800E who have staff who can explain the difference between the D800 and D800E to customers. The lack of a traditional anti-aliasing filter requires additional knowledge and care when shooting and processing photos for best results.

• BestBuy.com

Update: The D800E is now listed as Not Available for in-store pickup. Check with your Best Buy for details. Some stores are able to place orders for out of stock items.

Adorama is now shipping Nikon D800 pre-orders that were placed on February 7, 2012. Adorama periodically sent email reminders that the D800 was on backorder but provided no additional information. Retailers have been unable to share estimated shipping dates due to lack of information from Nikon about the number of cameras they will receive. Customers may also find the camera through another source and cancel their pre-order, leading to additional uncertainty.

Previously, Adorama had only shipped the D800 to NPS members who receive first priority per agreement with Nikon.

Email confirmations with tracking numbers were sent to customers whose cameras will be shipped today. A copy of the email is shown at left. Some customers have also reported that their Nikon D800E and D4 pre-orders are shipping from Adorama today.

Since last week Amazon has also been shipping more D800 pre-orders. One batch was sent out in the middle of the week, and another batch over the weekend.