By Josh Lehrer, Leica Store Miami
Today, Leica Camera has
announced the new M (Typ 262), a streamlined version of the M (Typ 240) with no
live view or video, lighter weight care of a new aluminum top plate, a quieter
shutter, and a simpler menu. The M (Typ 262) can be seen as an updated version
of the M9-based Leica M-E: designed to be the best digital rangefinder
photography experience possible with the fewest distractions. The sensor is the
same 24 megapixel Leica MAX CMOS found in the M/M-P (Typ 240).
It seems that Leica was
listening to those seeking a pure, unadulterated rangefinder experience with
updated sensor technology. Leica went a step further in creating what is
essentially a next generation M-E. Instead of just cutting out features such as
live view and video, they also swapped out the brass top plate for a lighter
weight aluminum one, shaving off 100g (3.5oz), and updated the shutter
mechanism for one which is quieter. Menus have been slimmed down as well, with
only two pages of options. It’s nice to see some innovation here rather than
just stylistic changes, and a real focus on what makes an M an M.
Other changes are the
elimination of the M (movie) button on the top of the camera, as well as
relabeling the LV (live view) button to the left of the LCD as WB (white
balance). Note that there is no ability to mount the EVF-2 electronic
viewfinder, as the port has been removed.
While this might not be a
replacement for the M (Typ 240), it most certainly shows Leica’s commitment to
meeting the needs of its user base. Since the M (Typ 240) launch, there has
been a growing sentiment for a simpler, more streamlined back-to-basics M
experience, but with the image quality benefits of the latest sensor
technology.
Pricing comes in at $5,195 in
the US. Full specifications, images and ordering information can be found
online here: Leica M (Typ 262). You can also call Leica Store Miami at 305-921-4433 or email
for more information.
Here is the full press
release from Leica:
Leica Camera presents the
Leica M (Typ 262), a camera which embodies the M rangefinder philosophy in its
purest form. The Leica M focuses on the essential functions for photography and
an intuitive handling concept. It is the most compact full-frame camera system
with access to the best lenses in the world. The Leica M (Typ 262) is dedicated
to the essence of digital M rangefinder photography. It is a streamlined
experience, eschewing the contemporary features of video and Live View to focus
on the tried and true methods of using a rangefinder camera. Now with a top
plate made of aluminum, the Leica M (Typ 262) is lighter than its M and M-P
(Typ 240) siblings by nearly 100 grams.
Benefits at a Glance
Compact digital M camera
concentrating solely on the traditional rangefinder focusing and picture taking
methods
Top plate made from durable
aluminum, making it lighter
Streamlined and simplified
menu system, consisting of only 2 pages
Dedicated button on the back
of the camera for White Balance (WB)
Quieter shutter mechanism for
more discreet shooting
24 megapixel CMOS sensor
(still-pictures only) ensures exceptional image quality
Leica Maestro processor for
fast recording of captured images
ISO values up to 6,400 ensure
great quality images in low light
Fast and accurate manual
focusing
All the essential controls
and functions logically and ergonomically placed
LCD made of scratch-resistant
Corning Gorilla Glass
The images from the Leica M
(Typ 262) are characterized by outstanding contrast, exceptional detail
resolution and low image noise. It is ideal to shoot with available light.
The Leica M (Typ 262)
features a shutter cocking system that is quieter than that of its sister
models the M and M-P (Typ 240). In single exposure mode, the shutter release
frequency is up to two frames per second. In continuous mode, the Leica M (Typ
262) has the same burst rate as its sister model and shoots up to three frames
per second.
The low noise and compact
size of the camera allows photographers to not only get close to the action,
but to the heart of where it is all happening.
________________________________________________________________________________________
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George Lowrey wrote:
ReplyDeleteLighter and simpler is better...
Not necessarily for everyone.
DeleteI rather like the extra features of the M240. For in s t a nice, the 240 allows me to do unlimited close ups and I can easily use lenses longer than 135mm. I must admit though, video is totally unimportant to me.
DeleteLuis Chico G Padrela wrote:
ReplyDeleteDiferences between type 240 and this one? Out with the video feaure?
Yes, no video feature. But there is more than that: No add-on electronic viewfinder, aluminum instead of brass top plate, making the camera lighter, streamlined and simplified menu system, consisting of only 2 pages, dedicated button on the back of the camera for White Balance (WB), quieter shutter mechanism for more discreet shooting, and, not to forget, a $1000 lower price. This is essentially a digital Leica M7.
DeleteLuis Chico G Padrela answered:
DeleteThank you, Heinz. But i guess it doesn't justify changing from the 240 to this one. However it is interesting as a "second" camera, though i would rather prefer the Monochrom
I agree. I see no reason to change from the M240 to this one. This is a camera for individuals who don't like the extra features of the M240. I also agree that as a second camera, the M Monochrome is a better choice.
DeleteYou are looking at this camera from your own standpoint. Fpr someon new to the Leica system of cameras it is a valid choice for someone who has no interest in the extra features of the M240. In that case the $1000 cost savings could easily be put towards a lens.
DeleteOf course. I answered Luis Chico G Padrela. His comments do make sense for someone that owns a Leica M240. Of course the new Leica M262 is a terrific entry level M camera, without a doubt.
DeleteJeremy Lavender wrote:
ReplyDeleteLeica has never been for anyone... and will probably never be. Not speaking about price here of course. I'm glad this one is coming as a perfect mix between technology and heritage. A real photographic tool for the rangefinder lovers
Jason Huang wrote:
ReplyDeletelighter simpler but cheaper too? wow
William Petersen wrote:
ReplyDeleteI would rather have this!!!!! What do I do?????
Keep your Leica 240, ignore the extra features and pretend it's a Leica 262
Delete
DeleteWilliam Petersen answered:
great idea!!!!!