Jump to content

Monochrom CCD replacement sensor vs swap


Hayek

Recommended Posts

Advertisement (gone after registration)

Been away for Christmas so perhaps I missed the news but does anyone know whether the upgraded sensor is available yet? I remember reading that January 2016 was their target date.

 

Secondly, if you had the option of foregoing the wait for the new sensor and swap for an M246 for about €3000/£2200, would you?

Link to post
Share on other sites

Secondly, if you had the option of foregoing the wait for the new sensor and swap for an M246 for about €3000/£2200, would you?

 

 

I wouldn't, no. (If you are minded to do the 'upgrade', bear in mind that some dealers are now discounting the M246 – one UK authorised dealer has stock at £4,990 – and this may alter the attractiveness of the offer.)

Edited by wattsy
Link to post
Share on other sites

Well, I've heard that the MM v.1 aren't re-sellable unless the sensor has been examined and certified by Leica or replaced altogether. I don't; recall any announcement that the monochrome version of the sensor is even available.

 

Not sure it's such a bad deal, other than the M246 EVF is barely usable and the added heft does differentiate it. The MM v.1 after all is a circa 2008 device with 2005 guts inside.

Link to post
Share on other sites

I had my MM1 sensor replaced last August and although the replacement one is exactly the same as the failed sensor that doesn't worry me at all because Leica guarantees it for the life of the camera, so if it does corrode again they'll replace it once more.

By then it would be the "new improved" replacement sensor. I believe the new sensor is available for the MM1 now, but I am not certain. I was told by Leica back in August that the newer one was under testing at that time and would be available by year's end, I elected not to wait for it.

So, that's all ok by me. I didn't want the M246, I have a M240 and whilst it's a very good piece of gear I find myself not liking it's extra bulk as compared to the MM1/M9 cameras. The cost of upgrading was also a deterrent, coupled with the fact that I do prefer the "look" of the CCD in B&W, and also the "look" of B&W out of the M240 isn't that far off of the "look" of the B&W from the M246. Subjective I know…..

If you want "real" B&W, pick up an earlier M Leica or any other film camera and shoot film.

Link to post
Share on other sites

  • 2 weeks later...

I have been told by my reliable dealer that the new sensor is not yet ready. I have a problem in that my MM has developed some dead pixels.  This can be remapped fairly quickly but then the sensor could go,  and I simply can't let the camera out of my hands for that amount of time.  I am not tempted by the 246, because I don't need the bells and whistles, or the bulk, or the hefty price tag.  I notice that Jaap prefers the files from the MM to  the 246,  which simply confirms my prejudices.

Edited by Geoffrey James
Link to post
Share on other sites

Advertisement (gone after registration)

Hi All

 

My first post!

 

My MM developed the dreaded corroded sensor early last summer.  I contacted Leica Mayfair and was told it will be added to the list. I heard approximately 10 days ago that Wetzlar were ready to receive my camera.  It is being collected tomorrow (DHL, arranged by Leica) to have its sensor replaced.  I have been told that it will returned in two weeks.  Most importantly I asked if the sensor will be replaced with the new version.  This was the reply...

 

"Yes, the sensor which is now being used does now have the new coating."

  • Like 2
Link to post
Share on other sites

Just did an email exchange with the service manager at Leica NJ.  He added my Monochrom to the service queue and said it would be approximately 4 months until my turn came up due to parts deliveries.  Said they were using the sensor with the new coatings.  So I'll send it in when they are ready to work on it.

Edited by Luke_Miller
  • Like 1
Link to post
Share on other sites

I sent my monochrom in through the dealer for a sensor replacement.  First, the dealer accused me of trying to clean the sensor with something abrasive and ruining the sensor.  I assured him I had vever cleaned it and no one else had access to the camera.  He didn't believe me but sent it into Leica USA.  They have agreed to replace the sensor due to corrosion.  I just called the dealer again today (2/5/16) and was told that it will be six to nine month wait.  I mean come on. With no loaner?  I have six different Leicas but don't think I will purchase any more equipment with such poor and slow customer service.  I use this camera as my daily go to kit and am very disappointed with the state of affairs.

Link to post
Share on other sites

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.
×
×
  • Create New...