M9 Backup

[AlanJW]

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I have been thinking about a backup for my M9. I now regret having sold my M8 but at the time needed the funds for the M9. My backup now is a D Lux 3, or a Canon G10, and neither provides IQ that excites me.

 

I have thought about an X1 but it is expensive for what it is and is fixed lens, though nice focal length. Plus side is small size and autofocus (no snickers please - my eyes are really bad so AF is tempting).

 

Then I thought about getting another M8, which would allow using all my lenses (but I would have to deal with UV/IR all over again) (I sold my filters too).

 

Finally I have considered an M6/MP/M7. Analog and FF but no filters.

 

I think each of these options would be comparable in price, and each comes with plusses and minuses. I am leaning to X1 for having something to stick in a pocket as well as a backup.

 

I am sure I am missing something and I have to assume that others have faced this question and would be interested in their thoughts.

 

Thanks.

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[vanhulsenbeek]

Not sue you are missing something. The X1 with its 32mm (FF equiv.) lens should do really well, and probably also has good high ISO performance.

[Stefan-S]

M8!

[viramati]

was told today by a leica dealer that and updated version of the dlux 4 is on the way but he didn't know when

[Marty]

How about a non-Leica body with M-adapter?

[strynoski]

I really like my Panasonic GF-1 (with 20mm f1.7 lens.) The 14-45mm zoom is quite sharp as well. Shoots RAW, is compact, and the image quality, while not up to the M9 standard, is as good as most DSLRs.

[DerekF]

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An M6 or MP would be the way to go, IMHO. They are not reliant on batteries and let you work at a different pace (i.e., different medium) should you ever want to. Any backup to a fully-electronic camera should be a mechanical one (again, IMHO).

[digitalfx]

I'd get a M8 over the X1...it uses the same lenses and the IQ is exceptional. An M8 is the same price as an X1.

[swamiji]

M7

[Frank Sprow]

M7 is a perfect back up and also works in places where easy access to battery charging, computing etc. is difficult. I also like it in very dusty locales since sensor cleaning is not one of my favorite pastimes.

[swamiji]

M7 is a perfect back up and also works in places where easy access to battery charging, computing etc. is difficult. I also like it in very dusty locales since sensor cleaning is not one of my favorite pastimes.

 

Also the M7 operates similar to the M9, as it has Aperture priority. Also Full frame, and needs no IR filters. Just switch lenses and go. If you wish to implement it, it gives you a true B&W mode as well.

[Ecaton]

First choice, a second M9. Second choice M8. Alternative choice, Oly EP2 with M adapter, nice EVF, IBIS, makes your 90mm a 180mm equiv., which can be usefull.

[Guest ccmsosse]

I really like my Panasonic GF-1 (with 20mm f1.7 lens.) The 14-45mm zoom is quite sharp as well. Shoots RAW, is compact, and the image quality, while not up to the M9 standard, is as good as most DSLRs.

I agree. I too use the Lumix GF1 as a back up and have the Voigtlander adapter for Leica glass I recently purchased the m4/3 45mm (90mm equivalent) Leica Macro lens for the Lumix ... so for a fun combination and a great backup as well as addition to the M9.

I love my M9 way more than the GF1 ... but find that I have the Lumix in the car to be with me more often (work etc...).

I am hoping for a newer Leica D-lux 4 like version - until then I'll stick with the GF1, although I am tempted by the X1.

[leicanut2]

GF1 with adapter for Leica glass.

 

Jan

[brill64]

it may surprise you to learn that i've survived for three years with no back up.

[Ecar]

Used M8. Will keep your workflow and habits (well, except the FOV) unchanged and should not cost much more than the X1, depending on condition.

But you'll need to have the UV/IR filters as well.

[danielt]

Panasonic GF-1 with 20mm f1.7 lens, + Leica glass adapter

[ELCAN]

Olympus E-P2, and a adapter for M Mount lens.

Electronic viewfinder, small, you can use all your M lens.

 

Than´ s what I have.

 

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[larryk34]

The problem with using a film Leica as a backup is that it's film. You have to equip yourself for two types of cameras, not to mention processing issues with M7s. With a now less expensive M8, you would not skip a beat. Why not just live with one lens/IR filter for your backup M8? Otherwise, you should investigate the Panasonic G1 or G1F solution. One adapter and you can use all your Leica lenses. But you should consider a G1 as an extension as well, one that would allow you to use macro and telephoto lenses not available for the M9. The G1 also allows you to use the EVF rather than the small screen in the sun solution. If I wanted simplicity, however, I'd go for the G1F with the new 20mm lens, perhaps with an adapter to use a 50mm Leica lens as a 100mm short zoom. More than adequate.

[Leicaiste]

The 18.0 Megapixel Canon 550D (Rebel T2i) with EF-S 17-55mm f2,8 IS USM.

 

In April Chasseur d'Images n°322 about this combo :

 

"Piqué: d'habitude, ce type de résultat est signé Leica et obtenu avec une focale fixe."

 

Sharpness: usually, that kind of result is signed Leica and obtained with a single focal lens.

 

 

Lucien