It seems that we've reached a point where the DSLR cameras
can no longer be considered more superior than the mirrorless cameras. Some big
camera brands such as Sony or Panasonic don't hesitate to target professionals
through their mirrorless cameras. And this assumption will be strengthened by
the participation of a legendary name in the photographic industry, Leica.
Of course this is not the first time Leica creates a
mirrorless camera. However, this is their first time to create a mirrorless
camera that's really targeted for professionals. Leica SL (Type 601) is the
most sophisticated mirrorless camera that has ever been made by Leica.
To create high quality images, Leica embeds a full-frame
CMOS sensor at a resolution of 24 megapixels with no low-pass filter. This is
basically the same sensor with the sensor of Leica Q, and also has maximum ISO sensitivity
of 50,000. But here Leica SL also features Maestro II processor and 2 GB of
memory buffers; it's capable of shooting up to 11 images per second in full
resolution.
One thing that's new from Leica SL is its ability to record
video in 4K resolution at 24/30 fps. At a resolution of 1080p, the video can be
captured in a speed of 120 fps. Leica ensures that the video recording utilizes
the entire full-frame sensors available, so the result is believed will be
highly qualified.
Leica SL has 847 grams frame which is formed of intact
aluminum material in order to provide a balance between durability and premium
impression. It can even be used to adventure in extreme weather, like most of
upscale DSLR cameras.
The Leica SL operational will rely on the 2.95 inch touch
screen at the rear. This screen is pretty standard, with 1.04 million dot
resolution and a viewing angle of 170 degrees. However, the most interesting
feature is the electronic viewfinder (EVF) above the touch screen.
The EVF magnification ratio reaches 0,80x, this means your
views through the EVF will feel so roomy, as wide as when using medium format
camera. The experience will be more perfect with the existence of 4.4 million pixels
in the EVF, and a very low level of latency.
Leica SL is utilizing lens with new mount, but it's still
compatible with other Leica lenses with the help of an adapter. That means in
total there are 145 different lenses that can be paired with Leica SL.
Due to be specifically targeted for professionals, Leica SL
is offered at a high price. November 16, 2015 is the official date in which
Leica SL will go on sale for $ 7,450, not including the lens.
One of the new lenses that will be sold separately is the
Vario-Elmarit-SL 24-90mm f/2.8-4 which is priced at $ 4,950. So in other words
you need $ 12,400 to be able to enjoy the pro class mirrorless camera from
Leica.