Leica Announces Full-frame Rangefinder M9, Fixed-Lens X1
Leica Announces Full-frame Rangefinder M9, Fixed-Lens X1
Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission.
September 9, 2009 – Leica today introduced two distinctive cameras, the 18-megapixel full-frame M9, which accepts interchangeable Leica M lenses, and the 12.2-megapixel X1, with a fixed 24mm lens (equivalent to a 36mm on a 35mm camera).
The M9 offers a top shutter speed of 1/4000 second, and an ISO range from 160-2500. The LCD measures 2.5 inches diagonally, with a 230,000-dot resolution. Top continuous shooting speed is 2 frames per second.
Available ISO settings range from 100-3200, shutter speeds from 30 seconds to 1/2000 second. Top burst mode speed is 3 frames per second. There is no video recording capabilty, but there is an HDMI connection for playing back photos directly to a high-def TV. The X1 is slated for shipment in December – no pricing information was provided with the announcement.
Pricing and availability information were provided, though, for the Leica S2 digital SLR, announced at Photokina in 2008. This 37.5-megapixel camera, with a 30 x 45mm sensor that’s nearly 60% larger than a 35mm film frame, will ship in October, starting at $22,995. Initial lens offerings will include a 70mm f/2.5 for $4,495 and a 180mm f/3.5 for $6.495.