Q2/Q3 or Hasselblad X2D? Which do you choose?

[bags27]

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24 minutes ago, hdmesa said:

 

Would you mind me asking a bunch of questions about the X2D based on your experience (or anyone else if they want to comment)? I'm contemplating another M11 (-P) or an X2D. I think I've ruled out the GFX 100(X) cameras. I apologize greatly for the number of questions, but since you have experience with the same cameras I have but still prefer the X2D, I'd value your input even if just on a few of these:

• How is the X2D EVF, especially compared to your SL3 and previous experience with the R5? I have read that the EVF of the X2D will go into a lower resolution mode when using autofocus much like the SL3. Is that true, and if so, does it bother you?
• How is the image quality in the EVF when using magnified manual focus? I was not happy with the SL3 magnified focus resolution, especially with low contrast M lenses.
• I've read Lloyd Chambers eviscerate the new V lenses for inconsistent sharpness across the frame at infinity. Have you used yours for landscape at say f/5.6 to f/8 and noticed any issues at 100-200% magnification? How do your V lenses compare to your GF lenses of the same or similar focal length? At infinity and f/5.6 to f/8, are they at least as good across the frame as the GF 45/50/63?
• Do you prefer the focus falloff and bokeh of the V lenses wide open at closer distances compared to say the GF 50 and/or 63? 
• I've seen a few X2D "reviews" of early units that literally had the testers cursing at the autofocus. In DPR's initial review for example, it couldn't AF in situations where the guy's super old Hasselblad DSLR performed perfectly. I was happy with the SL3 AFs with Sigma DG DN lenses – does the X2D focus as well with the V lenses?
• I thought I read that the V lens manual focus clutch allows for true manual focus versus focus by wire? Is that true? Does it feel like focusing a manual focus lens?
• Is the infinity hard stop of the V lenses true infinity like an M lens? I'm assuming not due to them being AF lenses, but thought I'd ask anyway.
• Are the DOF scales on the V lenses fairly accurate without the true DOF distance being shifted in one direction or the other like the Q? I know the actual digital tolerance of DOF at 100mp 1:1 viewing is still very narrow, but I just want to know if it falls where you'd expect compared to the DOF lens markings.
• Does the camera body ever get hot to the touch in normal shooting conditions? Warm? 
• I'd assume the battery life is a little better than the SL3, would that be a fair assumption?
• How overblown is the issue I've read about with some reporting loose tolerances with the V lenses to the mount – is there too much rotational play to feel solid? I'd assuming just having the dealer swap out the lens would find me another one with tighter tolerance if I had an issue. Or should I assume a baseline of the V lenses being ever so slightly loose on the mount?
• Do you find the manual focus experience with adapted lenses at least as good as the SL3 (ignoring the issue of electronic rolling shutter versus mechanical). Or do you consider the X2D a camera better dedicated to native lenses?
• I'm not concerned with the lack of highlight clipping warning as long as the exposure preview in the EVF is fairly accurate. How would you rate the accuracy of the exposure preview at the default EVF brightness setting. Are there any caveats such as the rear LCD is very accurate but the EVF is much less accurate? 

Sorry. Didn't mean to answer this. Ignore.

Edited September 20, 2024 by bags27

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[hdmesa]

10 minutes ago, bags27 said:

I'm thinking you mean X, rather than V, lenses. V lenses were designed by Zeiss for the film Blad, though they can be brilliant on the digital Blad also. 

I was going by what I saw on B&H. X-mount "XCD" but specifically the new "V" lenses.

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Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members!

Edited September 20, 2024 by hdmesa

[BWColor]

36 minutes ago, hdmesa said:

 

Would you mind me asking a bunch of questions about the X2D based on your experience (or anyone else if they want to comment)? I'm contemplating another M11 (-P) or an X2D. I think I've ruled out the GFX 100(X) cameras. I apologize greatly for the number of questions, but since you have experience with the same cameras I have but still prefer the X2D, I'd value your input even if just on a few of these:

• How is the X2D EVF, especially compared to your SL3 and previous experience with the R5? I have read that the EVF of the X2D will go into a lower resolution mode when using autofocus much like the SL3. Is that true, and if so, does it bother you?
• How is the image quality in the EVF when using magnified manual focus? I was not happy with the SL3 magnified focus resolution, especially with low contrast M lenses.
• I've read Lloyd Chambers eviscerate the new V lenses for inconsistent sharpness across the frame at infinity. Have you used yours for landscape at say f/5.6 to f/8 and noticed any issues at 100-200% magnification? How do your V lenses compare to your GF lenses of the same or similar focal length? At infinity and f/5.6 to f/8, are they at least as good across the frame as the GF 45/50/63?
• Do you prefer the focus falloff and bokeh of the V lenses wide open at closer distances compared to say the GF 50 and/or 63? 
• I've seen a few X2D "reviews" of early units that literally had the testers cursing at the autofocus. In DPR's initial review for example, it couldn't AF in situations where the guy's super old Hasselblad DSLR performed perfectly. I was happy with the SL3 AFs with Sigma DG DN lenses – does the X2D focus as well with the V lenses?
• I thought I read that the V lens manual focus clutch allows for true manual focus versus focus by wire? Is that true? Does it feel like focusing a manual focus lens?
• Is the infinity hard stop of the V lenses true infinity like an M lens? I'm assuming not due to them being AF lenses, but thought I'd ask anyway.
• Are the DOF scales on the V lenses fairly accurate without the true DOF distance being shifted in one direction or the other like the Q? I know the actual digital tolerance of DOF at 100mp 1:1 viewing is still very narrow, but I just want to know if it falls where you'd expect compared to the DOF lens markings.
• Does the camera body ever get hot to the touch in normal shooting conditions? Warm? 
• I'd assume the battery life is a little better than the SL3, would that be a fair assumption?
• How overblown is the issue I've read about with some reporting loose tolerances with the V lenses to the mount – is there too much rotational play to feel solid? I'd assuming just having the dealer swap out the lens would find me another one with tighter tolerance if I had an issue. Or should I assume a baseline of the V lenses being ever so slightly loose on the mount?
• Do you find the manual focus experience with adapted lenses at least as good as the SL3 (ignoring the issue of electronic rolling shutter versus mechanical). Or do you consider the X2D a camera better dedicated to native lenses?
• I'm not concerned with the lack of highlight clipping warning as long as the exposure preview in the EVF is fairly accurate. How would you rate the accuracy of the exposure preview at the default EVF brightness setting. Are there any caveats such as the rear LCD is very accurate but the EVF is much less accurate? 

Your question could best be answered by renting the camera and your choice of lens.

[hdmesa]

43 minutes ago, BWColor said:

Your question could best be answered by renting the camera and your choice of lens.

I'd rather put that money toward owning one, even without a single answer to my questions.

One week rental of the X2D + 38/55/90V at Lens Rentals with damage + theft insurance and shipping = $1,370. It would feel like buying the 28P and smashing it with a hammer.

Besides, I trust @SrMi's experience with the referenced gear more than I'd trust my own experience over just a week 🤷‍♂️

Edited September 20, 2024 by hdmesa

[BWColor]

1 hour ago, hdmesa said:

I'd rather put that money toward owning one, even without a single answer to my questions.

One week rental of the X2D + 38/55/90V at Lens Rentals with damage + theft insurance and shipping = $1,370. It would feel like buying the 28P and smashing it with a hammer.

Besides, I trust @SrMi's experience with the referenced gear more than I'd trust my own experience over just a week 🤷‍♂️

Wow.. I had no idea.

I can give you my impressions, but I’m not one that exhaustively tests each lens, so perhaps I should be disqualified.  I also don’t own an SL3, but I was an owner of the Sony A7Rv.

The EVF is not up to Sony standards.  That said, I have extensively used manual focus in various lighting and I haven’t had an issue with focusing, but I have been using the camera’s manual focusing aid that relies upon the autofocus system.  I find that the focusing of my three V lenses to be great and feels much like my Leica/Zeiss/Voigtlander ‘M’ lenses.  Autofocus has been adequate, but I no longer shoot sports and for that I used the Sony A9.  Autofocus does suffer in low light.  The lack of thumb control of autofocus took some time to get use to, but I’ve getting better at using the touch screen to change the location of the autofocus square.  Like other cameras the size of the autofocus sampling area can be changed and I have always used the smallest area.  Low light autofocus might be improved by increasing the area sampled.  I can’t compare vignetting, but this is a small price to be paid for the reduction in size and weight throughout the new ‘V’ lens lineup.  I’ve not had issues with infinity stop at f/2.5.  Not sure about DOF scales, but i have done a good bit of “zone focusing” with the 25mm & 38mm without issue.  My camera body doesn’t get hot, but I have been disappointed in the battery life.  This of course is a non-issue given that it is easy to carry extra batteries.  Not noticed issues with the mount, but I haven’t looked for an issue.  I have shot the 38mm in pretty heavy rain without issue.  I’m not into adapted lenses.  I shot with my M3 for years and many times without a meter, so I’m ok without more electronics in the viewfinder.  I use to do event photography on film and I avoid checking my image until I get to post processing.  I do this to punish myself for bad judgement.  I will say that I’m just now getting back to photography after sending my kids of to the university, so in some ways I’m back to the learning curve.  So, don’t know about the accuracy of the LCD screen.

I’ve used the X2D with a Godox N transmitter, flash and remote flash.  All worked perfectly, including using the flash as a TTL fill flash.  I mentioned this because I would usually do fill flash with a manual flash.

I purchased an M11M and the Hasselblad and within a couple of weeks I left for Korea.  I prefer my Monochrom images over my color, but I view this as a challenge rather than a failure.  Anyway, I only had the 38v when I was in Korea .  All of these images are from that trip…and as you will see, many are just family photos whereas almost all of my Monochrom images were not of family, but more of an effort to be creative.. so, I think that I can change my mindset with regard to the Hasselblad.

X2D / XCD 38mm f/2.5V Images from South Korea June-July 2024

Edited September 21, 2024 by BWColor
correction

[SrMi]

2 hours ago, hdmesa said:

Would you mind me asking a bunch of questions about the X2D based on your experience (or anyone else if they want to comment)? I'm contemplating another M11 (-P) or an X2D. I think I've ruled out the GFX 100(X) cameras. I apologize greatly for the number of questions, but since you have experience with the same cameras I have but still prefer the X2D, I'd value your input even if just on a few of these:

I will do my best, but I would also invite @FlashGordonPhotography to answer those questions.

2 hours ago, hdmesa said:

How is the X2D EVF, especially compared to your SL3 and previous experience with the R5? I have read that the EVF of the X2D will go into a lower resolution mode when using autofocus much like the SL3. Is that true, and if so, does it bother you?

I am happy with X2D's EVF quality, and I often use the V lenses in manual mode (magnification). The switch to lower resolution only happens while focusing and is typical of most mirrorless cameras. This means it occurs only briefly with AF-S and longer while focusing with AF-C.

3 hours ago, hdmesa said:

I've read Lloyd Chambers eviscerate the new V lenses for inconsistent sharpness across the frame at infinity. Have you used yours for landscape at say f/5.6 to f/8 and noticed any issues at 100-200% magnification?

I do not value Lloyd's reviews; therefore, I abstain from commenting. I would check out Jim Kasson's blog instead.  I have not noticed any issues at 200% (my typical technical evaluation magnification).

3 hours ago, hdmesa said:

Do you prefer the focus falloff and bokeh of the V lenses wide open at closer distances compared to say the GF 50 and/or 63? 

I have not compared them, and I am now traveling with an SL3/Q3 setup, so I cannot run any comparisons.

3 hours ago, hdmesa said:

I've seen a few X2D "reviews" of early units that literally had the testers cursing at the autofocus. In DPR's initial review for example, it couldn't AF in situations where the guy's super old Hasselblad DSLR performed perfectly. I was happy with the SL3 AFs with Sigma DG DN lenses – does the X2D focus as well with the V lenses?

I find SL3's AF better. I prefer using manual focusing with X2D, which works really well with the V lenses (MF clutch).

3 hours ago, hdmesa said:

I thought I read that the V lens manual focus clutch allows for true manual focus versus focus by wire? Is that true? Does it feel like focusing a manual focus lens?

MF works really well, but it is still focus-by-wire. Only 45p is not focus-by-wire.

More answers later :).

[hdmesa]

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59 minutes ago, BWColor said:

Wow.. I had no idea.

I can give you my impressions, but I’m not one that exhaustively tests each lens, so perhaps I should be disqualified.  I also don’t own an SL3, but I was an owner of the Sony A7Rv.

The EVF is not up to Sony standards.  That said, I have extensively used manual focus in various lighting and I haven’t had an issue with focusing, but I have been using the camera’s manual focusing aid that relies upon the autofocus system.  I find that the focusing of my three V lenses to be great and feels much like my Leica/Zeiss/Voigtlander ‘M’ lenses.  Autofocus has been adequate, but I no longer shoot sports and for that I used the Sony A9.  Autofocus does suffer in low light.  The lack of thumb control of autofocus took some time to get use to, but I’ve getting better at using the touch screen to change the location of the autofocus square.  Like other cameras the size of the autofocus sampling area can be changed and I have always used the smallest area.  Low light autofocus might be improved by increasing the area sampled.  I can’t compare vignetting, but this is a small price to be paid for the reduction in size and weight throughout the new ‘V’ lens lineup.  I’ve not had issues with infinity stop at f/2.5.  Not sure about DOF scales, but i have done a good bit of “zone focusing” with the 25mm & 38mm without issue.  My camera body doesn’t get hot, but I have been disappointed in the battery life.  This of course is a non-issue given that it is easy to carry extra batteries.  Not noticed issues with the mount, but I haven’t looked for an issue.  I have shot the 38mm in pretty heavy rain without issue.  I’m not into adapted lenses.  I shot with my M3 for years and many times without a meter, so I’m ok without more electronics in the viewfinder.  I use to do event photography on film and I avoid checking my image until I get to post processing.  I do this to punish myself for bad judgement.  I will say that I’m just now getting back to photography after sending my kids of to the university, so in some ways I’m back to the learning curve.  So, don’t know about the accuracy of the LCD screen.

I’ve used the X2D with a Godox N transmitter, flash and remote flash.  All worked perfectly, including using the flash as a TTL fill flash.  I mentioned this because I would usually do fill flash with a manual flash.

I purchased an M11M and the Hasselblad and within a couple of weeks I left for Korea.  I prefer my Monochrom images over my color, but I view this as a challenge rather than a failure.  Anyway, I only had the 38v when I was in Korea .  All of these images are from that trip…and as you will see, many are just family photos whereas almost all of my Monochrom images were not of family, but more of an effort to be creative.. so, I think that I can change my mindset with regard to the Hasselblad.

X2D / XCD 38mm f/2.5V Images from South Korea June-July 2024

Thank you so much, this information is extremely helpful. The images remind me of the Voightlander Ultrons, which I like. Thank you for sharing them. 

[hdmesa]

4 minutes ago, SrMi said:

I will do my best, but I would also invite @FlashGordonPhotography to answer those questions.

I am happy with X2D's EVF quality, and I often use the V lenses in manual mode (magnification). The switch to lower resolution only happens while focusing and is typical of most mirrorless cameras. This means it occurs only briefly with AF-S and longer while focusing with AF-C.

I do not value Lloyd's reviews; therefore, I abstain from commenting. I would check out Jim Kasson's blog instead.  I have not noticed any issues at 200% (my typical technical evaluation magnification).

I have not compared them, and I am now traveling with an SL3/Q3 setup, so I cannot run any comparisons.

I find SL3's AF better. I prefer using manual focusing with X2D, which works really well with the V lenses (MF clutch).

MF works really well, but it is still focus-by-wire. Only 45p is not focus-by-wire.

More answers later :).

Many thanks! I really appreciate you taking the time to respond. I’ll check out Jim’s info on the X system. I don’t know how I could have forgotten about that as a resource.

[SrMi]

1 hour ago, BWColor said:

Low light autofocus might be improved by increasing the area sampled.

Like with most mirrorless cameras, AF is improved if the image below focusing point is brighter. Sometimes the cameras do it themselves (quick flash in EVF), sometimes turning off exposure simulations (M mode only) helps.

[jakontil]

3 hours ago, hdmesa said:

I was going by what I saw on B&H. X-mount "XCD" but specifically the new "V" lenses.

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Buy!! You deserve it 😝 tundra in brown if u miss the safari

none ever mentions the evf in x2D is huge? 1x mag… a joy to use

Edited September 21, 2024 by jakontil

[hdmesa]

1 hour ago, jakontil said:

Buy!! You deserve it 😝 tundra in brown if u miss the safari

none ever mentions the evf in x2D is huge? 1x mag… a joy to use

Lol, thanks. I actually like the regular black/dark grey version.

I've really enjoyed your Hasselblad images on IG, so perhaps I've been brainwashed into wanting one 😁

 

Good to hear that you like using the X2D EVF so much. I was worried that the 5mp resolution wouldn't be high enough for the 1X magnification.

I think I would really appreciate the X2D menu's large fonts and interface design. I feel like the older I get, the less patience I have with having to "think" too much when I need to make a change to something.

 

[BWColor]

13 hours ago, Dazzajl said:

Is there really no highlight clipping view on the Hassy? That seems like a massive decision to take away a much used feature of any electronic viewing camera. 
 

There doesn’t seem to be many reasons to choose H over the GFX system, except perhaps looks? You get a Sony sensor and Fuji engineered lenses either way  

 

Probably true for some.

Not true for those of us that purchased the X2D.

It really depends upon your priorities.

[jakontil]

2 hours ago, hdmesa said:

Lol, thanks. I actually like the regular black/dark grey version.

I've really enjoyed your Hasselblad images on IG, so perhaps I've been brainwashed into wanting one 😁

 

Good to hear that you like using the X2D EVF so much. I was worried that the 5mp resolution wouldn't be high enough for the 1X magnification.

I think I would really appreciate the X2D menu's large fonts and interface design. I feel like the older I get, the less patience I have with having to "think" too much when I need to make a change to something.

 

I have a .85 viewfinder on my M6TTL, and it get as close as to using M3 in away when paired with the 55v or somehow..

i didnt notice it was 5mp evf but certainly it is quite a joy like eyes relief are real.. i might over exaggerate it

anyway if i may share my thoughts, at first i treated the x2d like the answer to my thirst of wanting Q, being 38v was my only lens, alongside my M.. u know i breath in and out an M, but it was so understated.. i shoot more and more and made me think, if i ever i have to upgrade my M, this is it.. 

thanks for the compliment mate, especially coming from you… but i have been with M my almost entire shooting life.. i thought what could be better? Im still im the process with the X2D but i love it 

[FlashGordonPhotography]

9 hours ago, hdmesa said:

 

Would you mind me asking a bunch of questions about the X2D based on your experience (or anyone else if they want to comment)? I'm contemplating another M11 (-P) or an X2D. I think I've ruled out the GFX 100(X) cameras. I apologize greatly for the number of questions, but since you have experience with the same cameras I have but still prefer the X2D, I'd value your input even if just on a few of these:

• How is the X2D EVF, especially compared to your SL3 and previous experience with the R5? I have read that the EVF of the X2D will go into a lower resolution mode when using autofocus much like the SL3. Is that true, and if so, does it bother you?
• How is the image quality in the EVF when using magnified manual focus? I was not happy with the SL3 magnified focus resolution, especially with low contrast M lenses.
• I've read Lloyd Chambers eviscerate the new V lenses for inconsistent sharpness across the frame at infinity. Have you used yours for landscape at say f/5.6 to f/8 and noticed any issues at 100-200% magnification? How do your V lenses compare to your GF lenses of the same or similar focal length? At infinity and f/5.6 to f/8, are they at least as good across the frame as the GF 45/50/63?
• Do you prefer the focus falloff and bokeh of the V lenses wide open at closer distances compared to say the GF 50 and/or 63? 
• I've seen a few X2D "reviews" of early units that literally had the testers cursing at the autofocus. In DPR's initial review for example, it couldn't AF in situations where the guy's super old Hasselblad DSLR performed perfectly. I was happy with the SL3 AFs with Sigma DG DN lenses – does the X2D focus as well with the V lenses?
• I thought I read that the V lens manual focus clutch allows for true manual focus versus focus by wire? Is that true? Does it feel like focusing a manual focus lens?
• Is the infinity hard stop of the V lenses true infinity like an M lens? I'm assuming not due to them being AF lenses, but thought I'd ask anyway.
• Are the DOF scales on the V lenses fairly accurate without the true DOF distance being shifted in one direction or the other like the Q? I know the actual digital tolerance of DOF at 100mp 1:1 viewing is still very narrow, but I just want to know if it falls where you'd expect compared to the DOF lens markings.
• Does the camera body ever get hot to the touch in normal shooting conditions? Warm? 
• I'd assume the battery life is a little better than the SL3, would that be a fair assumption?
• How overblown is the issue I've read about with some reporting loose tolerances with the V lenses to the mount – is there too much rotational play to feel solid? I'd assuming just having the dealer swap out the lens would find me another one with tighter tolerance if I had an issue. Or should I assume a baseline of the V lenses being ever so slightly loose on the mount?
• Do you find the manual focus experience with adapted lenses at least as good as the SL3 (ignoring the issue of electronic rolling shutter versus mechanical). Or do you consider the X2D a camera better dedicated to native lenses?
• I'm not concerned with the lack of highlight clipping warning as long as the exposure preview in the EVF is fairly accurate. How would you rate the accuracy of the exposure preview at the default EVF brightness setting. Are there any caveats such as the rear LCD is very accurate but the EVF is much less accurate? 

I like the X2D evf. It's 1.0x and very very usable. The GFX100II is better but that's the only one I prefer. I think it's slightly better than the SL3.

Magnified works well. Sometimes you don't need it as there's a *shimmer* in normal mode for many shots that makes focus easy.

Lloyd who?? The 38 and 55 V aren't optically perfect, like the 50mm M Summilux isn't optically perfect. Having said that the 55V is my favourite lens. The 55 GFX lens is epic! Absolutely fab. But nearly double the weight/size.

I find the GFX50 and 63 optically excellent but bland. The 55V isn't as optically perfect but I'd pick that any day. The 55V and 38 draw better IMHO. And the colours are better.

DPR should never have been allowed an X2D. Especially Jordan Drake. If you try and compare it on specs and pure speed it'll always lose. Much like an M. The X2D needs to be reviewed in the context of what it is. The most portable 33x44mm camera available. Much like the SL2, if you learn how to use the AF system you find it works just fine. If you expect it to be like a Sony you shouldn't review cameras.

Infinity stop is very close to actual infinity. Even the old 21mm stops pretty much exactly at infinity. I've used that lens a lot for astro.

DoF is always *approximate*. Even with M lenses etc. You learn what to add or subtract from the scales based on your personal size output. I print at A0. DoF scales don't represent that. I don't get why anyone would not self *calibrate* ISO and DoF based on their personal needs. Was common in the film days and now all of a suden the camera reads minds?? If all you do is look at 8x10's then the Dof scales are fine.

ALL the X camera bodies act as a heat sync. It's part of the design. When the cameras get warm it's normal behaviour.

No. Battery life is slightly better on the SL3.

Lens tolerances is wildly overblown. There is slight play with the new lenses because some of the older lenses were too tight and we complained (me included). At no time is the slight rotational play impacting lens performance or operation. And frankly if that's all you have to bitch about it shows how good the X2D really is.

I only use native lenses on the X2D. I'd only adapt lenses on a GFX.

I rely on the EVF extensively for exposure. I also use the histogram.

******

The X2D is my favourite camera, ever. I'm just about to order my third body. My SL3 is very close behind that. Of the 40-50 cameras I currently have the X2D is an easy choice, if you value pure IQ and user experience over absolute speed performance. Otherwise buy a Sony.

Gordon

 

 

 

[P1505]

X2D is my next upgrade, where I’ll replace Fuji with Hasselblad in the same way I replaced Sony with Leica.

[Olaf_ZG]

I will ask a moderator to forbid discussions about the x2d. It is too tempting…

However, to invest about 15k into another system is not what I want (or can afford without selling of the M or SL), and the SL system has the advantage of the (longer) zooms and the Lux.

But please stop praising the HB…

[Viv]

On 9/19/2024 at 11:38 AM, Googaliser said:

I feel bad admitting this - but I have sold all my Leica gear for the X2D system. In a nutshell - it is the camera I have waited 40 years for. I love M's, S's, Q's, Medium format. But each has always had multiple compromises. Weight, speed, work-flow, user-experience etc. For static subjects - it is what I have been waiting for. I used to shoot on a H3DII-50 (CCD) before moving across to the S system (S2, 007 and S3). The H3D was a headache in all but landscape or studio situations. But the images, the colours....  The S glass offset some of its own inherent limitations - which I hoped with each generation would improve - but the size of it was the real deal killer for me. To now have the Hassy medium format look, in a small package, with amazing glass and the best user interface I have ever seen on a camera is a game changer for me. I spent the weekend traveling - and just had the X2D and my iPad Pro M4 with me. What a combination - they play perfectly together. Being able to share images almost instantly (RAW) and seamlessly from the X2D to the Apple ecosystem is another game changer. I still love Leica (M&S) - but the game has moved on - and for some reason I can't quite explain - the SL line has never appealed. It will be interesting to see what the S4 looks like. If it looks and works like an X2D - I may be back. But until then - I am enjoying photography again with the Hassy X system.

I have never had a Leica S camera, but I love the X2D. It just feels so right in the hand and the image quality is amazing.

I still like my Q2 and use it often, but it's a different camera.

[benqui]

I have the X2D since 9/22 and I am still surprised about the quality of the photos, especially the wonderful colors. The IBIS is perfect and for me there is nothing to improve (maybe a software where I can have b/w photos on my screen). Especially with the 1.9/80 it is a killer combo for portraits. Furthermore the option to use M lenses on the Hassi is a nice possibility. Both cameras are very good, but for sure very different. To me the Q2 is more versatile, the AF is faster and it is not so heavy. But on the other hand, I often use the X2D with the 4/45P as a travel camera and it also works very good and reliable. But I would not sell my Q2 because of the X2D

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Hallo,

Look here: Leica Q

[Dazzajl]

9 hours ago, BWColor said:

Probably true for some.

Not true for those of us that purchased the X2D.

It really depends upon your priorities.

That is exactly right. My original statement there is mostly pish and I was thinking entirely with my work head on. I stand by the GFX system being the best I have ever used, by a country mile, as a tool to get whatever images a client could ever ask for. As a set of technical tools, it has been 100% able to take on every assignment thrown at it and produce client thrilling images. That feeling of confidence in the kit is a wonderful thing for any working snapper and I don't think there is another system that can get close.

BUT... it's not a system that I particularly enjoy shooting with. I will grab a 50Sii and the 35-70 or 45mm from time to time but in all the years it's been out, I've not once picked up the original 100 outside of work. It's still just a tool and doesn't provide that desire to get up, go out and find beautiful light and interesting subjects. Right now my favourite cameras to grab for 'playtime' are the M8 or an old Fuji X-T1, to get a away from the technical trappings of day to day shooting. That is where I would absolutely go to an X if I had one to hand. For the sheer joy of using a beautifully crafted camera that is designed to inspire. 

[hdmesa]

9 hours ago, jakontil said:

I have a .85 viewfinder on my M6TTL, and it get as close as to using M3 in away when paired with the 55v or somehow..

i didnt notice it was 5mp evf but certainly it is quite a joy like eyes relief are real.. i might over exaggerate it

anyway if i may share my thoughts, at first i treated the x2d like the answer to my thirst of wanting Q, being 38v was my only lens, alongside my M.. u know i breath in and out an M, but it was so understated.. i shoot more and more and made me think, if i ever i have to upgrade my M, this is it.. 

thanks for the compliment mate, especially coming from you… but i have been with M my almost entire shooting life.. i thought what could be better? Im still im the process with the X2D but i love it 

This is what I'm afraid of (or at least my pocketbook is) – that I will want both an M and an X2D. I may have to pair the M with a GFX 50SII or Zf until I can get the funds for the X2D. 

 

7 hours ago, FlashGordonPhotography said:

I like the X2D evf. It's 1.0x and very very usable. The GFX100II is better but that's the only one I prefer. I think it's slightly better than the SL3.

Magnified works well. Sometimes you don't need it as there's a *shimmer* in normal mode for many shots that makes focus easy.

Lloyd who?? The 38 and 55 V aren't optically perfect, like the 50mm M Summilux isn't optically perfect. Having said that the 55V is my favourite lens. The 55 GFX lens is epic! Absolutely fab. But nearly double the weight/size.

I find the GFX50 and 63 optically excellent but bland. The 55V isn't as optically perfect but I'd pick that any day. The 55V and 38 draw better IMHO. And the colours are better.

DPR should never have been allowed an X2D. Especially Jordan Drake. If you try and compare it on specs and pure speed it'll always lose. Much like an M. The X2D needs to be reviewed in the context of what it is. The most portable 33x44mm camera available. Much like the SL2, if you learn how to use the AF system you find it works just fine. If you expect it to be like a Sony you shouldn't review cameras.

Infinity stop is very close to actual infinity. Even the old 21mm stops pretty much exactly at infinity. I've used that lens a lot for astro.

DoF is always *approximate*. Even with M lenses etc. You learn what to add or subtract from the scales based on your personal size output. I print at A0. DoF scales don't represent that. I don't get why anyone would not self *calibrate* ISO and DoF based on their personal needs. Was common in the film days and now all of a suden the camera reads minds?? If all you do is look at 8x10's then the Dof scales are fine.

ALL the X camera bodies act as a heat sync. It's part of the design. When the cameras get warm it's normal behaviour.

No. Battery life is slightly better on the SL3.

Lens tolerances is wildly overblown. There is slight play with the new lenses because some of the older lenses were too tight and we complained (me included). At no time is the slight rotational play impacting lens performance or operation. And frankly if that's all you have to bitch about it shows how good the X2D really is.

I only use native lenses on the X2D. I'd only adapt lenses on a GFX.

I rely on the EVF extensively for exposure. I also use the histogram.

******

The X2D is my favourite camera, ever. I'm just about to order my third body. My SL3 is very close behind that. Of the 40-50 cameras I currently have the X2D is an easy choice, if you value pure IQ and user experience over absolute speed performance. Otherwise buy a Sony.

Gordon

Thanks, Gordon. This is very helpful info.