DESIGN /
DIGITAL
January 15, 2015
Leica | Introducing the Compact Digital Camera 'Leica X Vario'
Leica
A new premium compact digital camera, "Made in Germany," has arrived.
The All-Purpose "Leica X Vario"
On June 20th (Thursday), the "Leica X Vario," a compact digital camera featuring the Leica X series' first zoom lens, the "Leica Vario-Elmar f3.5-6.4 / 18-46mm ASPH." (equivalent to 28-70mm in 35mm format), was released. This allows users to enjoy photography with greater creative freedom across a wider range of scenes than ever before.
Text by KAJII Makoto (OPENERS)
The World's First Camera with an APS-C Sensor and Zoom Lens
The compact digital camera, rumored among Leica enthusiasts as the "Mini M," has finally arrived. The "Leica X Vario" is a fixed-lens digital camera equipped with a high-performance zoom lens and a large APS-C size high-performance CMOS sensor (16.2 megapixels effective) for a compact digital camera. The combination of an APS-C sensor and a zoom lens delivers image quality surpassing conventional compact digital cameras, enabling high-quality shooting in any scene.
Its striking design incorporates elements of the digital M-body camera, the "Leica M." The top cover is milled from solid aluminum, using the same process as the Leica M. The combination of a robust, all-metal body and high-quality exterior leather provides an excellent grip, directly conveying the joy of owning a Leica.
The intuitive operability, a hallmark of Leica M-body cameras, has been carried over, embodying the concept of simple and straightforward handling through a clearly laid-out control panel.
High-Quality All-Rounder, from Casual Snapshots to Video
The Leica X Vario also features Full HD (1920x1080, 30fps) video recording. The MP4 format is used for video recording, which is ideal for internet uploads, allowing direct transfer to mobile devices or uploading to social media without conversion. During video recording, a wind noise reduction function ensures clear audio with minimal noise. Furthermore, its high-speed, high-precision autofocus and versatile shooting functions meet the demanding requirements of discerning users, allowing for creative expression.
A Rich Lineup of Accessories for the Leica X Vario
The Leica X Vario is complemented by a wide range of accessories. These include the "Leica EVF2" external viewfinder with a high-resolution 1.4-million-dot display, which can be tilted up to 90 degrees for shooting at different angles. There is also a handgrip specifically designed for the Leica X Vario to improve balance when held. Additionally, a lens hood to effectively prevent light reflections and the "Leica SF 24D" flash unit for greater lighting flexibility are available.
Ergonomically designed camera protectors, ever-ready cases, hand straps, and carrying straps are crafted from finely finished genuine leather, available in black and cognac.
Furthermore, Adobe® Photoshop® Lightroom®, a professional software for digital image processing (compatible with Mac® OS X and Microsoft Windows®), is included. This software, rich in features for editing, managing, and outputting digital images, can be downloaded after user registration on the Leica website.
"Leica X Vario"
Price: Open price (Direct store price: ¥341,250)
Size: Approx. W133 x H73 x D95mm
Weight: Approx. 594g (without battery) / Approx. 628g (with battery)
16.2 megapixels effective
3.0-inch TFT LCD monitor, 920,000 dots, wide viewing angle
Included accessories: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery (Leica BP-DC8, 3.7V/1600mAh), battery charger (Leica BC-DC8, Input: 100-240V AC, 50-60Hz), battery case, leather carrying strap, USB cable, lens cap, instruction manual
Leica Camera Japan
Tel. 03-5221-9501
http://www.leica-camera.co.jp