DxO PureRaw 6: Photo tool reduces image noise and removes dust spots
DxO PureRaw 6 extends DeepPrime XD3 noise reduction from X-Trans to Bayer sensors, removes dust with AI, and optionally saves as compressed DNG.
DxO PureRaw 6 combines RAW file demosaicing with various image correction algorithms.
(Image: DxO Labs)
French software manufacturer DxO Labs has introduced PureRaw version 6 of its utility tool. It serves as a preliminary step for RAW developers such as Adobe Lightroom Classic or Capture One. PureRaw combines noise reduction with demosaicing, which is the conversion of discrete red, green, and blue values into RGB pixels. DxO Labs uses machine learning methods for this.
In the photographic workflow, it converts camera-specific RAW photos into linear DNG (Digital Negative) files, a universal RAW format, while correcting image noise and lens errors using DxO's proprietary methods. The company measures camera-lens combinations in its laboratory to create the best possible correction profiles.
Noise reduction for Bayer sensors
The DeepPrime XD3 (Extra Details) noise reduction algorithm was previously only available for Fujifilm sensors with an X-Trans pattern. In PureRaw 6, it also processes RAW files from Bayer sensors, which are preferred by almost all other camera manufacturers.
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DeepPrime proves particularly effective for shots taken at high ISO values, for example, beyond ISO 25,600. The software creates an AI-supported suggestion, eliminating the need to adjust strength and threshold sliders as is usual.
Output as compressed DNG
In addition to very storage-intensive DNG files, PureRaw 6 also outputs high-resolution but compressed DNG files. DNG files are typically twice the size of the original RAW files. Compressed files, on the other hand, are smaller than the originals. The "High Fidelity" compression is lossy, but according to DxO, it should not significantly compromise image quality. Besides DNG and compressed DNG, TIFF and JPEG are also available as output formats.
AI-powered dust removal
Using artificial intelligence, PureRaw in version 6 retouches dust spots from dirty sensors. This is done automatically, saving users repetitive and tedious detail work. Batch processing is said to work faster than in the previous version.
Prices and availability
According to the manufacturer, DxO PureRaw 6 is available immediately for Windows and macOS as a standalone program as well as a plug-in for Adobe Lightroom Classic and Photoshop. In Adobe image editing software, it can be applied as a non-destructive smart filter. The program costs 129.99 Euros. An upgrade from version 4 or 5 is available for 79.99 Euros.
(akr)
