With small and trendy compact cameras like Fujifilm’s X100 VI all the fashion for influencers, Leica has determined to leap again into the sport. The corporate simply unveiled the $1,595 D-Lux 8, a followup to the D-Lux 7 launched approach again in 2018. Whereas considerably restyled in comparison with the final mannequin, it carries the identical 17-megapixel Micro 4 Thirds sensor and 24-75mm (35mm equal) f/1.7-2.8 lens as earlier than.
The unique was successfully a rebadge of Panasonic’s LX100 II, however it’s not clear if the D-Lux 8 is utilizing precisely the identical sensor or an up to date model. In any case, Leica did not reveal a lot data, past the sensor, decision and lens, together with the brand new photographs.
From the latter, we are able to see some substantial variations from the earlier mannequin. It has an all-black end and leather-style wrap, very similar to its full-frame Q3 compact. The interface has additionally been simplified, with solely a “play,” “menu” and d-pad kind management on the rear, together with two unlabeled buttons. On prime, there is a energy swap rather than the “4K” button. All of that is impressed by the Q lineup, the corporate mentioned.
Spec-wise, all the corporate detailed is the sensor and lens, whereas saying it now helps RAW file seize, a primary for the D-lux lineup. Different options, like video, autofocus and extra have but to be revealed.
Leica additionally has new equipment together with carrying straps, leather-based protectors, a flash and a hand grip. The corporate can also be displaying an app, with out saying precisely what it does.
It could be a bit disappointing if the D-Lux 8 is only a spruced up model of the D-Lux 7, launched to reap the benefits of compact digital camera craze created by Fujifilm’s X100 sequence. The previous mannequin was a strong compact for its time, however affords contrast-detect as a substitute of phase-detect autofocus, together with tame picture and video specs.
It definitely does look good, although, and that is been a key ingredient within the compact digital camera renaissance. And for these interested in the Leica’s storied historical past and that iconic purple dot, $1,595 is as low a price as you’ll ever see for a brand new digital camera from the model.
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