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Showing results for tags 'compact'.
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The X1 was, if I recall, the first true compact, fixed lens APSC camera. The X2 improved upon that and the X113 was a dream. But that was in 2014, and its ISO performance and AF speed could do with what would be a much update. Leica has mentioned that the CL is an effective replacement for the X series. The beautiful sensor produces images very close to that of the M; its AF speed is now reasonably fast; and the size and dimensions - especially when used with the 18mm - is certainly X sized. And let's not forget that beautiful viewfinder. However, I would argue that the CL does not offer the same straightforward, no nonsense manual simplicity of the X series, which is what set the X apart from everything else. Those beautifully engraved and dedicated aperture and shutter speed dials made its operation effortless. While I did try the CL, and was impressed by the image quality, I did find the non-labelled, multi functional top dials something of a pain, and often found that, while in busy areas, the dials could inadvertently change the settings, which was a constant source of frustration. In this respect, I personally hope that we will see either a CL 2 that adopts the X operational philosophy, or alternatively, a new X3. I would be fine with the return of the 2.8 Elmarit, the 1.7 Summilux, or if they somehow managed to cram a collapsible Summicron into an X2 sized body, then that that would be wonderful. Make that collapsible Summicron a manual pull out and you have something that would probably be more robust and nostalgically charming. In a recent interview, Leica did say that they were not ruling out the possibility of a fixed lens APSC compact camera, but it would depend on whether or not there is clamour for it. What say you?
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An engineer fellow liked my Leica and is keen on upgrading his camera. He especially likes portraits with nice soft bokeh. He wants best possible IQ, including dynamic range and color fidelity, and also wants the camera to be relatively compact. At present he has an older Panasonic G1 plus various lenses including the Leica 25. What new body to recommend? I don't think a rangefinder would be right for him. I suggested the new Panasonic GX-8. Anything else from Leica? I think the XV lens would be too slow and the X too wide. Leica T? But he likes a traditional interface. A shame Leica doesn't make another interchangeable lens AF compact. Any other ideas?