With small and trendy compact cameras like Fujifilm’s X100 VI all the fad for influencers, Leica has determined to leap again into the sport. The German model simply unveiled the $1,595 D-Lux 8, a followup to the D-Lux 7 launched means 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, nevertheless it’s not clear if the D-Lux 8 is utilizing precisely the identical sensor or an up to date model. Different options, like video, autofocus and extra have but to be revealed.
From the photographs launched, we will see some substantial variations from the earlier mannequin. It has an all-black end and leather-style wrap, very similar to Leica’s 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 high, there is a energy change instead of the “4K” button. All of that is impressed by the Q lineup, the corporate stated.
The brand new digicam helps RAW file seize, which is a primary for the D-lux lineup. Leica additionally unveiled new equipment together with carrying straps, leather-based protectors, a flash and a hand grip. It additionally confirmed off a brand new app, with out saying precisely what it does.
It will be a bit disappointing if the D-Lux 8 is only a spruced up model of the D-Lux 7, launched to make the most of compact digicam craze created by Fujifilm’s X100 sequence. The previous mannequin was a stable digicam for its time, however affords contrast-detect as a substitute of phase-detect autofocus, together with tame picture and video specs by at the moment’s requirements.
It actually does look good, although, and that is been a key factor within the compact digicam renaissance —and the equipment can also tempt style-conscious shooters. For these interested in the Leica’s storied historical past and that iconic pink dot, $1,595 is as low a worth as you may ever see for a brand new digicam from the model.
