Newark, NJ—Panasonic’s Lumix DMC-LX100, the sixth-generation model of its LX high-end P&S series, features a new Micro Four Thirds High-Sensitivity MOS sensor and the ability to record video in 4K resolution. According to Panasonic, “The new LX100 is not just a successor to the DMC-LX7 but a jump-up that even inherits the DNA of the DMC-LC1—Panasonic’s first full manual compact camera released in 2004.”
The LX100’s 16.8 megapixel MOS sensor is engineered to achieve higher picture quality and multi-aspect capability, as well as the ability to let subjects stand out of the background with a stereoscopic effect. By keeping the resolution at 12.8MP, the amount of light is enough to improve the S/N ratio, making it possible to capture clear images with minimum noise, even at high ISOs. The camera’s Venus engine is also newly developed, providing multiple noise-reduction systems, such as multi-process NR, random filter and aperture filter, to achieve high color reproduction.
Notable is the ability to record video in Full HD 1,920×1,080 60p (NTSC) AVCHD Progressive (MPEG-4/H.264) or MP4 at 60p (NTSC), and 4K 3,840×2,160 at 30 fps. With this 4K video capability, Panasonic is proposing a new way of photo creation called “4K Photo.” By grabbing a 3,840×2,160, 8MP-equivalent image from the 4K video footage, Panasonic notes it is possible to capture a spur-of-the-moment that is often missed in still photography. This functionality is now easier with the newly added hybrid photography 4K photo mode.
In addition, the LX100 boasts a new, high-speed 24–75mm (equivalent) f/1.7–2.8 Leica DC Vario-Summilux lens said to provide high descriptiveness in detail and resolution to each corner. The lens also produces background defocus working with the large MOS sensor, while a nine-blade aperture diaphragm helps produce bokeh with a smooth, circular shape. Notably, landscapes can be captured in 24mm ultra wide angle in any 4:3, 3:2 or 16:9 aspect thanks to the multi-aspect sensor.
The LX100 integrates a 16:9 widescreen LVF (live viewfinder) with 2,764K-dot resolution, 100% color reproduction, 1.39x/0.7x (35mm equivalent) magnification and 100% field of view. For advanced photographers, Panasonic included a selection of advanced functions that allow direct, intuitive control with dedicated rings and dials, such as an aperture ring, control ring, shutter speed dial and exposure compensation dial.
Other features include: Light Speed AF of approx. 0.14 sec; 11-frames-per-sec bursts in full resolution; creative control filters; creative panorama mode; photo style effects; Wi-Fi connectivity (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology for instant image sharing; focus peaking; a level gauge; white balance bracket; highlight/shadow control; and the in-camera ability to develop RAW images into JPEGs. A compact external flash (GN7/ISO100ï½¥m, GN10/ ISO200ï½¥m) that mounts on the camera’s hot shoe is also included.
Panasonic’s Lumix LX100 will be available the end of October for $899.99. panasonic.com
