New CCD - Improvements?

[dkmoore]

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Hello Forum members,

 

I read an article posted on Riedreviews.com that there is IQ improvement with the new CCD sensor and firmware on the MM1.

 

The folks at Leica Miami also mentioned that they have heard this from very reputable Leica shooters.

 

Has anyone else experienced this themselves or can post comparisons?

 

I love my MM1 but am still curious nonetheless.

 

Thanks,

 

Dustin 

[pico]

I am skeptical because CMOS is so compliant to software innovations. I do not see the CCD as having the same potential.

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[dkmoore]

What I was told is that it had something to do with the sensor glass and the fact that it reduces infrared? I was half paying attention, which I understand sounds silly since I am asking here, but maybe the first sentence might mean something and make sense?

 

I was told that the improvements were noticed more on wide angles and a slight increase in detail in all photos.

[OttoWitte]

Sure it is a very subjective and optimistic feeling, but after the sensor-replacement with the new CCD the Images seem to be more brillant, sharper whatever.

But I have no evidence for that :-)

[Hardster]

After my MMv1 had its old corroded sensor replaced with the 'new' one earlier this year I noticed an improved, sharper image as well.

 

Initially I thought I was imagining it but there is something different about the images that are pleasing to my eye at least.

[wilfredo]

Is there a recent firmware update for the MMI?

[Chuck Albertson]

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Is there a recent firmware update for the MMI?

There's new firmware (v. 1.010) installed with the replacement sensor.

[wilfredo]

There's new firmware (v. 1.010) installed with the replacement sensor.

 

So that I assume is only with the replacement sensor?  My Monochrom got a clean bill of health last year when it went to Leica for a cleaning.

 

Thanks!

[Chuck Albertson]

So that I assume is only with the replacement sensor?  My Monochrom got a clean bill of health last year when it went to Leica for a cleaning.

 

Thanks!

Must be. The only firmware version that is available on Leica's Website is 1.008.

[Ken Abrahams]

Mine was away for a month or so and the new sensor seemed to be improved. I havent analysed files, its a gut feeling that something is improved with the new generation CCD. Maybe added detail and contrast in the files? 

 

Ken

[DandA]

Although not an absolute test, someone who has a MM1 they are about to send in for a sensor replacement, should take a well controlled indoor shot and then repeat the shot once the camera is returned. If its the cover glass, I suppose people who recived new sensors for their M9 shpuld also possobly have noticed a difference?

 

Dave (D&A)

[colint544]

I received my M Monochrom mk1 back from Leica back in May, with the updated sensor fitted. I can't be sure if it's sharper than before but, frankly, it's as sharp as I could ever need it. It certainly is at least as good as the original sensor.

 

I attach a shot I took a couple of weeks ago here in Glasgow. 35mm Summilux ASPH FLE, wide open at f1.4. There's no sharpening. It startles me still just how much sharpness, detail, and all-round flexibility the M Monochrom mk1 has. It's as though you always have more in reserve than you ever could need.

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[wilfredo]

That certainly is sharp.  I guess it's something to look forward to if my sensor ever starts to show signs of corrosion.  Last year it got a clean bill of health from Leica.  Thanks for sharing.