Along with Leica’s slim full-frame camera announcement comes the release of the first in an entirely new line for the German camera manufacturer: the X1. While ostensibly a compact, the X1 includes a 12.2 megapixel CMOS APS-C sensor identical to those found in most dSLR cameras, allowing for low noise, high dynamic range and excellent colour differentiation.

The X1 also takes the bold step of including a prime lens, a fixed ELMAIT 1:2.8/24mm lens, with a focal length of 36mm – a classic option for reportage photographers, and likely to be rather sharp despite the missing zoom.

To keep the camera small, it also forgoes a built-in viewfinder in favour of a live-view mode accessed over the X1’s 2.7-inch LCD screen. An optional viewfinder attachment will be available for those unwilling to surrender to the screen.

The new compact also offers full manual controls, a retractable flash and ISO all the way up to 3200.

X1s will be available from Leica dealers sometime in January 2010, though local pricing and availability is yet to be confirmed. Stay in touch with D-Photo for further details.

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