D-Lux4/LX3 best in class ISO 400 performance

[Ecaton]

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I found an interesting German web page, which allows to compare IQ of different cameras at different ISO levels, RAW or JPG, for day or night shooting. At iso 400 and higher, the LX3 looks like a real winner, running circles around the Canon G9. 24mm f2.0, best in class ISO 400 performance and ISO 800 still looking usable sounds like a decent package.

 

Bildqualität | Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Testbericht | dkamera.de

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[Ecaton]

Fair point, Mitch. I owned the Ricoh GRDII and liked its IQ, including ISO 400 and think its UI is excellent. (Tried the D-Lux3, Ricoh GX 100, Canon G9 and sold them all after a short trial period,). However, I think the LX3 is quite capable a camera and more versatile than the Ricoh.

In March, a Sigma DP1 replaced my GRD II, and this one will never been sold! IQ, dynamic range and lens quality wise it is simply fantastic.

[Guest malland]

I understand your enthusiasm about the D-Lux 4, but I haven't tried one. I did like the the D-Lux 3. But all these zoom lens cameras seem to have substantial barrel distortion — the GX100 certainly did — compared to the GRD2. And possibly colour aberration as well...

 

The DP1 hasn't interested me because of it's handling characteristics, which I understand are not that good for street photography.

 

—Mitch/Paris

Flickr: Mitch Alland's Photostream

[rob_x2004]

I think best in class is going to depend on usability. That will mean how well the AF functions in practice.

 

Canon with their pixel protection was being touted by some as being a pretty handy concept as you will be able to concentrate more on subject exposure and let the background look after itself. I really think that could be a big deal. Doubt the G10 viewfinder will be great but at least you can learn it. I would trust the AF to be pretty reasonable.

 

Being able with the DLux/LX to dial in the focal length at start up (only in the custom programable or is it user settings?) would be a real bonus if the AF is good enough to comlement the external viewfinder. Expensive, but maybe a winner.

 

Am not sure if the files differences and pixel peeping will be enough in itself. You have to be able to get the shot.

 

ps...with the DLux/Lx now out to 24-60? I wonder what the distortion will be like.

[mhoutman]

now let's wait and see what the Sigma DP2 will bring to us;)

 

i saw a mock-up at photokina and i was told i will be released next january.

[Ecaton]

now let's wait and see what the Sigma DP2 will bring to us;)

 

i saw a mock-up at photokina and i was told i will be released next january.

Remembering how the story went with the DP1, this could mean January 2010, unfortunately.

[audidudi]

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The DP1 hasn't interested me because of it's handling characteristics, which I understand are not that good for street photography.

 

IMO, the bigger issue with using the DP-1 for street photography is its 28mm fixed focal length lens rather than its handling characteristics. Once you stop down to f4 or so and take the time to manually focus it at the proper hyperfocal distance, I found it becomes quite responsive in use.

 

In fact, I really miss mine. Unfortunately, it died when I took to the streets with it in the worst possible way and it fell off the roof of my car at 30mph...