Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX 16 MP ($395)

Panasonic is running one of their one day specials on a camera I think is worthy of consideration: Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX 16 MP for $395 (its typically $500-600 dollars).

I have been a fan of the small pocket digital Panasonic Lumix cameras with the Leica lenses. If you are a more serious photographer, you wind up looking at Canons and Nikons, and you pay up for the privilege.

The new GX line creates a space between the two, and with the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX 16 MP body on sale for $395, its a very reasonable price point.

This body is without lens, and you have two choices of lens kits:

• The basic lens 14-42mm Kit adds $100 to the cost.

• The full 14-42mm Power Zoom Kit  tacks on another $500 to the body.

Here is what Digital Photography Review had to sat:

“By creating a separate product line for the GX, Panasonic has made clear distinctions in its G-series offerings. The GF line is positioned as entry point for compact-camera upgraders. The GH2 is designed for users who shoot a lot of video and the G3 is aimed for (primarily) still shooters who desire a built-in EVF and articulated LCD. The GX1 then is rather sensibly positioned as an enthusiast offering for those who want the highest image quality from a Micro Four Thirds camera, in a form factor that comfortably accommodates a range of zoom lenses and does not skimp on external controls.”

 

Full specs after the jump

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX 16 MP Micro 4/3 Compact System Camera with 3-Inch LCD Touch Screen
Black, Body Only

Superb Image Quality and Performance Combined with a Premium Design

Panasonic is pleased to announce the addition of the DMC-GX1 interchangeable lens system camera as part of the LUMIX G Micro System as part of the new premium mirror-less line up – DMC-GX1 featuring high image quality and stunning performance in both response and function.

LUMIX G Micro System realizes high-quality photo images with real-to-life details through excellent resolution, image rendering and color reproduction. Taking full advantage of the 16.0-megapixel Live MOS sensor and Venus Engine, images to be shot in low-lit situations at max. 12800 high ISO sensitivity setting is stunningly clear with highly sharp resolution.

Precision Contrast AF system of LUMIX G Micro System gains even higher speed realizing approx. 0.09 second of Light Speed AF.* Consecutive shooting is also improved for 4.2 fps in 16.0-megapixel full resolution.

The DMC-GX1 records 1920 x 1080 full-HD video with stereo sound in AVCHD format which is superior in both compression efficiency and friendliness with AV equipment for playback. Advanced AF system including practical full-time AF and tracking AF is available in video recording so that every photographer can enjoy high quality video recording with minimum ease.

As a camera from the new premium line of LUMIX G Micro System, the external design of the camera has been developed with no compromising on grip, dial, coating – everything to detail. The hot shoe on the top lets you attach the optional tilt-shift Live View Finder (DMW-LVF2) of approx. 1.4x (approx. 0.7x**), 1,440,000-dot equivalent, 100% field of view. It is now compatible with UHS-I standard for the SDXC/SDHC Memory Card taking its advantage to extend performance.

Available in silver and black, the DMC-GX1 offers luxurious comfort in shooting experience with a stunning performance and a host of functions, to be a great partner that is always in your sight, in your mind.

* The time for focusing on the subject is measured with LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S (H-PS14042) to move the lens position to “2m” from “infinity” position. The zoom position is in wide end. Panasonic measurement method

** 35mm camera equivalent

High Image Quality for an Interchangeable Lens System Camera
LUMIX G Micro System realizes high-quality photo images with real-to-life details through excellent resolution, image rendering and color reproduction; high-grade lens and precision AF achieves high resolution, optimal balance of resolution and noise reduction achieves lifelike image rendering and high precision auto exposure and white balance with live light metering results in the faithful color reproduction.

The 16.0-megapixel Live MOS sensor plays a big role in high quality image rendering. With the dedicated circuit which reads out signals with minimum noise, the level of noise is significantly suppressed by more than 66%. Notably max. ISO 12800 is available with DMC-GX1. In shooting at high ISO setting, S/N value is improved by approx. 200% compared with the conventional 12.1-megapixel sensor. The sensor performance improves by 6db at ISO 3200 and max. 9db at ISO 6400, resulting in the dramatically flawless picture without noise.

Full review: Digital Photography Review