Originally posted by snake Unless the two possible sensors we're thinking about function with noise levels as low as our Sony 16mp and unless they have similar levels of clean shadow recovery and highlight recovery, it could be a step backwards.
They would have to perform better:
Sony Sensor - I don't see Sony pushing a new sensor that does not perform as good as their award winning sensor, it would most certainly have to be superior to the older sensor.
Toshiba Sensor - I think that everyone can agree that Nikon will not be using this sensor as an upgrade to the Sony sensor (D7000 and K5 sensor) if it was not a superior sensor.
As for noise performance, the old argument of "higher mp = worse noise performance" is pretty much out the window with today's sensors...