Digital BW, The Print

Tina Manley wrote:

> ... it is smaller than most 35 
> DSLR's:  http://www.dpreview.com/news/0809/08092301_leica_s2.asp
> 
> "With a custom 37.5-megapixel, 30 x 45 mm sensor that is 
> 56% larger than full frame, ...
> and still has the unmistakable look and feel of a Leica."
> 
> It all sounds too good to be true, but they haven't announced the 
> price yet. 

It sounds like they're shooting for a very high level of performance, and something that is distinquishable from the rest of the pack, not only by way of format size but also, perhaps, new patents that will keep the competitors, including used Leica lenses, at bay.  Those lenses are almost certainly going to be larger for a given speed, magnification, and feature set.  I hope there is enough of a niche to make it profitable for them. 

> I'll probably stick to my rangefinders.

I've been using a rangefinder medium format (Bronica RF645, Tech Pan film, usually with a wide angle, 45 mm lens) as my main camera for several years.  I think the rangefinder can own wide angle, and with advanced live view, maybe more. 

> I hope to get out of the cycle of having to buy a new 
> digital camera every year or so!

That would be nice.  The need to upgrade digital cameras -- one way or the other -- might be an inherent part of a fast-moving technology.  I hope Leica has found some method that at least partially deals with this problem. 

Paul
www.PaulRoark.com