By David Farkas, LeicaStore Miami
Today, Leica has announced
the SL2, its next-generation professional mirrorless camera. The original LeicaSL (Typ 601), introduced in late 2015, set the standard for mirrorless cameras.
From its cutting-edge 4.4MP EVF, touchscreen interface, rapid shooting rate,
quick autofocus, 4K capabilities, and more, the SL still keeps pace today. But
with the launch of the SL2, Leica has improved upon the SL in every way that
matters and brought to bear a worthy successor.
Built around a 47MP CMOS
sensor offering double the resolution of the SL, the SL2 features a speedy
Maestro III processor, 5-axis in-body image stabilization, a top-of-the-line
5.76MP OLED EVF, larger and more detailed 3.2” touchscreen, updated Wi-Fi, dual
UHS-II SD card slots, mutishot capability for enormous 187MP files, a USB 3.1
Type-C port for tethering and power, and some of the most impressive video
specs yet from a hybrid mirrorless system. To name just a few. Let’s take a
look at these in a bit more detail and see how the SL2 improves upon its
predecessor.
New Sensor
The full frame 47MP CMOS
sensor in the SL2 yields roughly twice the resolution of the original SL.
Delivering up to 14 stops of dynamic range with an ISO range of 50 – 50,000, the
sensor can handle just about anything you throw at it. From landscape to night
photography, you’ll be greeted with incredible details paired with gorgeous
colors and tonality. The sensor also features proprietary microlenses which
maximize performance when used with Leica M lenses. As, usual, there’s no
anti-alias filter to interfere with capturing the finest details.
More Processing Power
The camera can shoot up to
a staggering 20 frames per second in maximum drive mode at full resolution. So,
to churn through all those pixels the SL2 sports a custom Maestro III
processor. This next-generation chip enables responsive operation under all
circumstances from capture to playback and enables some impressive video specs
as well.
4GB Buffer
To support the upgraded
sensor and processor, the SL2 packs twice the buffer memory of the SL. With its
generously-sized 4GB buffer, expect to shoot around 70 shots in burst before
the camera slows down when recording 14-bit DNG files, or well over 100 frames
in JPG if that’s your thing.
Dual UHS-II SDXC card
slots
You’ll need a fast card to
record all that information. The SL already features a single UHS-II slot and a
secondary UHS-I for backup. On the SL2, both slots are full UHS-II speed,
enabling the additional capacity of two cards with rollover or real-time
redundant backup with speeds up to 300MB/s on both slots.
IBIS
Just as significant as the
jump in resolution is the addition of in-body image stabilization, or IBIS for
short. The 5-axis mechanical stabilization physically moves the sensor to
correct for pan, tilt and rotation. With just the in-body stabilization, expect
around five and half stops of effective shake reduction. Add on one of Leica’s
SL zooms with OIS (optical stabilization) and the combined correction can be
more than six stops. This feature should prove to be an absolute game changer
for users of M lenses, when employed with the latest APO-Summicron-SL primes,
or when shooting run-and-gun handheld video.
5.76 MP OLED EVF
The 4.4 MP EVF on the
first SL was unmatched for years, but this new higher resolution Eye-Res EVF
just puts it to shame. The switch to OLED from LCD is noticeable. Color gamut
and accuracy are vastly improved, as is sharpness. A 120fps refresh rate ensures
a silky-smooth and responsive viewing experience with no image tearing or
detail smearing. Generous eye relief, plentiful magnification and an all-glass
optical path treat even eye glass wearers to a large, crystal-clear view. Once
you experience the EVF, it will spoil you for anything else.
3.2” Touchscreen
A larger and higher
resolution touchscreen graces the rear of the camera, featuring a redesigned
menu interface. With 2.1 MP images and icons are crisp and easy to see. The
Gorilla Glass surface resists fingerprint and scratches while cutting down on
reflections.
Multishot Function
Not available at launch,
the mulitshot function will be coming via firmware update in early 2020.
Capturing and combining eight images while shifting the sensor, the SL2 will
assemble the results in-camera into a staggering 187MP single DNG file. As
added insurance, a standard 47MP DNG is also included. With this high
resolution multishot capture capability, the SL2 should exceed even 100MP
medium format cameras in total detail, especially given the extreme resolving
power of native SL optics.
Updated Ergonomics
At first glance, the SL2
bears a strikingly similar resemblance to its forebearer the SL. Yet, upon
closer inspection, you can definitely see some subtle but significant changes.
Instead of a bare metal front and chunky rounded grip, the SL2 has a textured
leatherette wrap around the entire body, with an undercut rubberized grip
offering much greater comfort and added stability when shooting.
The front function button
has been split into two, doubling up on the customization without cluttering
the design. Flanking the rear LCD are the same three buttons that are now found
on the M10, CL and Q2. This unified control design makes switching between
different Leica cameras much simpler. The thumb joystick and rear dial remain,
as well as the two programmable top buttons and button to the right of the EVF.
All in all, you’ll be able to quickly set six customizable function buttons
without having to dig through menus. Just like the CL and Q2, only a long press
is required to assign a function with a short press to activate.
And to make things ever
more intuitive, the status screen shows all critical camera settings at a
glance, with different themes for photo and video. To change a setting, you can
now simply tap on its icon and adjust with touch sliders, the joystick or rear
thumbwheel. Straightforward and elegant.
New Autofocus
The SL2 adds Intelligent
AF with Leica Object Detection Autofocus. Now, the SL2 can detect faces and
bodies, intelligently activating tracking when a subject moves in frame.
Different AF profiles are available such as kids/pets, sports and wildlife to
maximize performance in different shooting scenarios. AF points have been upped
from 49 on the SL to 225 on the SL2 and now cover 100% of the frame.
Video including 5K and
Cine4K 60 fps
The original SL features
incredible 4K capture capability. Building on and expanding this expertise, the
SL2 is now one of the most capable hybrid mirrorless video cameras on the
market. We’ve got a Super35 cropped 5K mode, perfect for anamorphic capture, high
speed FullHD capture up to 180 fps, and Cine4K up to 60 fps using the full
width of the sensor. To my knowledge, the SL2 is actually the first mirrorless
hybrid camera on the market with full frame Cine4K capture at 60 fps. Almost
all video modes can be recorded using either the full sensor or a Super35 crop,
useful if using PL-mount cine glass or smaller TL lenses.
Up to Cine4K30 can be
recorded straight to SD card in-camera with 10-bit 4:2:2 quality. Connect an
Atomos Ninja V or Shogun 7 via the full size HDMI 2.0b port and you can record
all the way up to Cine4K60 in 10-bit 4:2:2. Bit rate options abound with
choices for MOV, MP4, All-I and Long GOP ranging from 20Mbps up to 400Mbps
depending on your needs. For HDR shooting, HLG (Rec 2020) and L-Log options are
on tap for all recording modes.
There’s also a new Cine
Mode, which swaps in ASA for ISO and shutter angle for shutter speed, perfect
for fitting in on a professional cine set.
Mic and Headphone Jacks
No more audio adapter
required. The SL2 now has two standard 3.5mm audio jacks, one for microphone
input and one for headphone output. Gain settings are available for each in the
menu system.
USB 3.1 Type C
An upgrade from the SL’s
USB 3.0 port, the new standard reversible connector supports charging, power,
data transfer and stable tethering to a Mac or Windows PC. You can even power
the camera in the field using a small powerbank or even from a V-Mount battery
using a USB tap.
Upgraded Networking
In addition to the
improved wired connections, the SL2 comes equipped with high-speed IEEE802.11ac
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth LE 4.2. Still fully backwards compatible with
IEEE802.11a/b/g/n, the newer radios offer far easier and quicker connection to
the Leica FOTOS app, with BLE allowing for an always-on low-power connection.
To support the SL2, Leica
will be releasing a few software updates. The standard FOTOS app for iOS and
Android will be updated to v2.0 through the App Store and Google Play Store, so
if you already have the app installed, just keep an eye out for the update. The
latest version promised to be about twice as fast loading photos from the
camera with more robust and stable connectivity.
In addition to the free
version, Leica will also be rolling out a paid FOTOS Pro version for iOS. For
$49.99 per year, the FOTOS Pro app is optimized for iPad, without sacrificing
iPhone compatibility. and offers more powerful functionality like the first
ever direct integration with Adobe Lightroom Mobile along with video support.
Just press the Lightroom
button at the bottom of the Detail View or in Multi-Selection and the photo or
selected photos will instantly open in the Lightroom editor. No other imaging
app is this seamless when working with Adobe.
For video producers, you can
now use an iPad as a wireless monitor on set and remote control all video
functions. Solo vloggers to larger productions will appreciate the added
versatility without employing costly transmission systems or cumbersome cable
runs.
New Handgrip and Remote
Release Cable
Be aware that the original
SL handgrip and remote release cable will not work with the SL2, nor will
Really Right Stuff L-bracket plates. The bottom of the camera is slightly
different, as Leica needed to eliminate the anti-rotation hole next to the
1/4-20″ tripod socket to make room for the Image Stabilization sensor. The new
cable release can now be used in either the headphone or microphone jack,
allowing for greater flexibility if also working with video.
Pricing, Availability and Ordering
The Leica SL2 is expected
to start shipping by late November 2019 at a price of $5,995. If you are
interested in purchasing the SL2, you can do so at Leica Store Miami by
clicking the button below, calling 305-921-4433 or sending an email to info@leicastoremiami.com.
If you are interested in trading in any other Leica equipment towards the
purchase of the SL2, your best option is to fill out their online trade-in
form.
Press Release
A NEW ICON: LEICA CAMERA
ANNOUNCES THE NEW LEICA SL2, SUCCESSOR TO THE TRAILBLAZING LEICA SL
Building on the foundation
established in 2015 with the visionary Leica SL-System, Leica Camera proudly
introduces the Leica SL2, the storied brand’s new icon and next evolutionary
step towards building the perfect all-purpose camera. By listening closely to
the valued feedback of photographers and existing SL owners, Leica made many
efforts to push the envelope of technological innovation and performance while
respecting its heritage of design and legacy. In addition to a technical marvel
of pure performance and unmatched build quality, the Leica SL2 is also a joyous
experience to use with improved ergonomics and more comfortable grip married to
the well-established, simplified three-button control layout, further unifying
the Leica design language across multiple product lines. While cutting-edge new
features such as in-body image stabilization unlocks newfound potential from
legendary Leica M-Lenses, it simultaneously augments the growing selection of
SL-Lenses which are some of the finest optics Leica has ever produced. The
Leica SL2 is the natural evolution of the innovative Leica SL, serving as a
groundbreaking embrace of the future of digital photography and videography
while paying homage to its respected history and lineage.
Crafted with conscience
The SL2 is the only
mirrorless camera designed and crafted in Germany, with an unmatched all metal
solid construction and elegant leather wrap to withstand the time and deliver
years of photographic pleasure, thanks to the sustainability guaranteed by consistent
firmware updates.
Streamlined design with
new status menus
The Leica SL2 offers an
innovative user interface whose efficient design allows photographers to focus
their attention on the creative process. The design alignment with the existing
M and Q systems makes the adjustment even easier for existing Leica
photographers.
The main recording
parameters can be viewed on the rear display and adjusted quickly and easily
with a simple finger tap. A click wheel, a joystick and three strategically
placed, individually configurable buttons also contribute to a straightforward
operation. Thanks to two dedicated status menus for stills and video recording,
the parameters for either shooting mode can be adjusted entirely separately
from each other.
Improved ergonomics for
stress-free shooting in any situation
Despite significant
technical improvements, and the presence of in-body stabilization, the Leica
SL2 has kept the same size than its predecessor and feels particularly compact
to handle. Improved body design paired with increased durability make the SL2
the perfect companion for all forms of shooting. The SL2’s IP54 certification
ensures an elevated weather sealing for more rugged situations, while a new
option to turn off noise reduction during long exposures allows for more
hands-free shooting. Less worry about the weather and environmental situations
means photographers can focus more on getting the shot.
Overall the design of the
SL2 recalls more of the iconic Leica identity and traditional design DNA
elements that the brand has become known and loved for.
CMOS sensor with 47
megapixels for superior image quality
The unprecedented
resolution of the SL2’s CMOS image sensor in full-frame format results in an
unparalleled level of detail rendition and image quality. Enormous dynamic
range, a color depth of 14 bits per RGB channel and a sensitivity of up to ISO
50,000 enable outstanding image quality in all lighting conditions. Even when
combined with Leica TL lenses, which are designed for the smaller sensor format
of the Leica TL2 and CL, the SL2’s sensor still delivers an excellent image
resolution of over 20 megapixels.
New Leica Object Detection
Autofocus
The new Leica Object
Detention AF ensures a fast and reliable AF. In addition to an array of modes
and features, including face recognition, the SL2’s high-performance AF system
also automatically detects whether a subject is stationary or in motion, and
subsequently switches between motion and focus priority.
Optical image
stabilization through sensor-shift technology
In a major evolution of
the SL, the Leica SL2 features a suspended sensor which adjusts its position in
order to quickly and efficiently compensate for camera shake. This in-camera
method even makes image stabilization available to lenses that are not equipped
with their own.
Additionally, in multishot
mode, the tripod-mounted camera can record up to eight consecutive frames,
whereby the sensor is shifted in half-pixel increments in between every
exposure. This key feature results in images with an incredible quadrupled
resolution of around 187 megapixels, leading to an extreme increase in detail
resolution.
Leica EyeRes® viewfinder
with even higher resolution
The camera’s electronic
viewfinder now boasts a resolution of 5.76 megapixels, allowing for a large,
entirely natural-looking viewfinder image. Simultaneously, the experience is
further enhanced when using the touchscreen, which has increased in size to a
3.2-inch diagonal, and now offers a significantly higher resolution of 2.1
megapixels.
Maestro III processor for
ultra-fast operation
The new Maestro III
processor facilitates a superior operating speed that shines in many aspects of
the SL2’s performance. The autofocus is significantly faster and allows for a
virtually lag-free shutter release in any shooting situation, which is further
complemented by the new Smart AF mode, which autonomously switches between
focus priority and shutter release priority. Full-resolution recordings of
consecutive images are possible at 10 frames per second with the focal plane
shutter, and 20 frames per second with the electronic shutter. Thanks to two
UHS-II-compatible SD card slots, raw files can be saved simultaneously in DNG
and JPEG format.
Perfect tool for
cinematographers
In addition to its great
appeal for photographers, the Leica SL2 speaks the language of
cinematographers, as the camera is able to record up to 60 frames per second in
Cine 4K mode, and up to 180 frames per second in Full-HD mode. Activating Cine
mode transforms the SL2 into a manually controlled cine camera as ISO becomes
ASA, the shutter speed is marked in degrees on the rotary disk shutter, and the
f-stops indicating the aperture ratio are replaced by T-stops, which measure
the actual amount of light transmitted through the lens. Connecting audio
equipment to the Leica SL2 no longer requires the use of adapters, as the
camera now features a build in headphones and mic jack, complemented by a
fully-fledged HDMI connector for external monitors.
Limitless connections
Featuring an L bayonet lens
mount, the Leica SL2 is not only compatible with the ever-growing portfolio of
SL-System lenses, but also with lenses of the TL-System and with the legendary
lenses of Leica’s M, S and R-Systems via adapter, providing more than 170 Leica
lens options, guaranteed to offer the right fit for any photographic scenario.
The L-Mount Alliance expands this scope of possibilities even further, by
giving SL2 photographers access to L-mount-compatible lenses from Sigma and
Panasonic.
Leica FOTOS App
Of course the new Leica
SL2 is supported by Leica FOTOS, the versatile app available for Android and
iOS Smartphones. Leica FOTOS connects directly to the camera via Wi-Fi
(Bluetooth® is supported where available) and saves the registration details to
make future connections between the camera and the app as fast and convenient
as possible. Leica FOTOS enables photographers to access the Live View function
of the camera and remotely change exposure-relevant settings such as aperture,
ISO value, shutter speed and exposure compensation from a smartphone. It
naturally also allows wireless control of the shutter release, which opens up
entirely new creative opportunities.
Thanks to the
high-resolution displays of modern smartphones, pictures can be viewed
immediately at full size to assess their sharpness. The exposure parameters are
also displayed, which can be extremely helpful for adjusting the settings for
subsequent exposures.
As soon as a personal
selection has been made, the pictures can either be shared in social networks,
or saved for mobile post processing in the smartphone. Leica FOTOS can be used
for this in combination with many popular post processing apps. To exploit the
full potentials of digital image processing, the pictures can also be
transferred to the respective app in DNG RAW data format. If users wish to save
the finished pictures after processing on their smartphone, they can take
advantage of the option for saving them to a separate Leica Gallery – this
keeps painstakingly composed and processed pictures from the Leica FOTOS app
separate from simple snapshots. Expect many new features and a whole new mobile
workflow experience on the iPad when Leica FOTOS will be available in version
2.0 from November 21, 2019.
The Leica SL2 is available
beginning November 21, 2019