After long speculations, Nikon have just announced their new Nikon D300S camera. A 12.3 megapixel DSLR that can record 720p movies at 24fps, the new D300S brings contrast-detect autofocus (while in Tripod mode) and offers an external mic input.

On top of that, the beast incorporates the same DX-format 12.3 megapixel CMOS sensor in the D300, comes with a 51-point autofocus system, 7 frames per second burst shooting, a 3 inch LCD display and EXPEED image processing. There’s also a Quiet release mode for discrete photography, a built-in pop-up flash that covers 16mm wide-angle field of view, dual CF and SD memory card slots.

Available in stores from the end of August, the new Nikon D300S is going to be priced close to $1,800.

Hit the jump for more pics and the full press release.