[dugby]

I own both D2 and L1, and can additionally write, to the above comments

a) L1 is much faster to get a shot, at least 2-3x faster, enough that you don't miss a 'moment'. I have missed many with my D2. This is after 'power-on'

Additionally to power-on and get a shot, on the L1, less than 1 sec, whereas the D2 will take 1 to 2 secs.

b) the L1 raw buffer seem to hold about 6x, before writing slows done. The D2 takes 5 secs to write each RAW.

c) the DOF is much better controlled on L1..... the D2's is far too big.

d) the L1 autofocus is much better if you turn off the "Auto-3-zones" and set it to "center only"......and then its much better than the D2,

e) I taken some really good hand held shots in my D2 at 1/10 sec.
I was extremely surprised that with OIS on L1, that a 1/2 sec hand held was so good.

f) I still don't like the noise of mirror slap. If the L1/D3 could have been made with "continuously setable Live preview" with no mirror movement, ie have light metering and focus done off the sensor (like Olympus OM4) / and Focus via the LCD display then I'd be 100 % pleased with the L1/D3 for no noise environments (in concertos where I often shoot).

g) the L1 is 50% heavier than a D2. I'll let you know about this after my 4 week holiday Jan/Dec

h) External Flash on D2 and M8 uses the Metz 3502-Mod4 standard. D3/L1 uses 3202-Mod5.....so be aware for flash incompatibilty.

Despite being the same brand-type (Digilux N../..Lumix) they are really very different solutions in different eras for Leica... / ...Panasonic.

PS. I'd made the emotional decision that the next camera after my D2 was to be the M8, and I'd skip the D3. But unfortunate circumstances forced me to make another interrim decision whilst Leica sort out the M8.

I've been a shooter for 36 years now, and had for last 10 have not wanted to change lenses ...ie willing to compromise the quality of Primes...for a Vario. I was ready to use an M8 with two lenses, 28/2.0 and 75/2.0 but was dreading the thought of swapping lenses and getting dust on the M8 sensor.

Panasonic, fixed this issue with the ultrasonic sensor cleaner in the D3/L1. Maybe this technology may find it's way into the M9.

One thing you gotta be clear on with the Leica Digilux (and Lumix) family brand. The D1, D2 and D3 are not really anything more than a marketing exercise in "branding" there is no model compatability with the expensive add-ons, ie filters, macro devices, external flashes, and for now lenses.

The only items that were carried over are, the lithium battery (D3 has a very minor amp boost), and remote-control cable.

I think the decision you face based on available IQ technology (which , is- price proportional)
a) the D2 will provide IQ rated at 7/10
b) the D3/L1 will provide IQ rated at 8/10
c) the M8 (without the magenta issue) produces IQ of 9.75/10. I still don't like what I've seen with some of the IR changes to other colours when the IR filter is used.
But as a pure B&W shooter, strangely the M8's IQ is 10/10