Leica has responded again to input from their passionate customer base with the introduction of the Leica M10-R Digital Camera. Based heavily on the popular and proven M10 Digital Camera, which returned the digital rangefinder dimensions to the same as their legendary film cameras, the M10-R now incorporates a higher resolution sensor for those photographers who seek out the highest resolving abilities technologically available.
New sensor for ultimate image quality
The M10 is the first camera from Leica to feature a color 40.89MP CMOS sensor. Originally intended strictly for the M10 Monochrom, Leica has realized that improvements to sensor technology have allowed this ultra high resolution to thrive when paired with the Maestro II Processor, providing the sharpest and most detailed images available. Thanks to this upgrade, the M10-R is the ultimate photography tool, allowing for versatile use on images intended for web-only use, or those where printing exceptionally large sizes is the goal.
Improved ISO capability
Traditionally, an increase in resolution has resulted in a loss of performance at higher ISO levels. However, because of improvements in CMOS sensor technology, Leica has been able to achieve an increase of nearly 17 megapixels AND a reduction of image noise of around 1-stop at higher ISO sensitivities. ISO settings of up to 6400 can be used without significant compromises in image quality, and even the maximum setting of ISO 50,000 is remarkably usable.
Get to know lenses in a new way
An additional benefit of the added resolution of the M10-R is its ability to emphasize and highlight both the strengths and unique qualities of individual lenses. At lower resolutions, the character of a specific lens may not be realized completely. But thanks to the 40MP sensor, now specific lens designs intended to maximize sharpness for instance, are more easily recognized. The dream look of the Pre-ASPH 35mm Summilux will be enhanced, and the APO-Summicron 50mm will be sharper than ever before, thanks to the increased resolving capability of the M10-R.
See more with improved viewfinder
Originally introduced with the M10, the M10-R also utilizes the new 0.73x magnification rangefinder. This newer design represents a 30% enlargement from previous digital M-cameras, improving the view of subjects during composition. The eye-relief distance was also increased by nearly 50%, making it much more convenient to use, particularly for photographers who wear glasses.
Familiar feel and operation
Based on the hugely popular M10 rangefinder, the M10-R has all of the same great features photographers have come to expect from a modern rangefinder camera. The large 0.73x magnification rangefinder, with bright-line frame lines, makes focusing with any M-Lens easier than ever before. As with previous M system cameras, frame lines for 35mm/135mm, 28/90mm, and 50mm/75mm are easily selectable, either manually or automatically when the lens is attached. Built in Wi-Fi, Live View, auto ISO, weather sealing, and Gorilla Glass protective covering on the rear screen round out some of the features that keep the M10-R relevant in the digital age and make it as convenient to use as it is enjoyable. The M10-R also utilizes the nearly silent shutter first introduced in the M10-P and M10 Monochrom, making it one of the quietest cameras available.
Focusing with focus peaking
The M10-R makes focusing easy, even with longer or faster lenses, by including focus peaking. The Live View function on the camera offers the ability to both magnify the subject on the monitor screen, or mark sharply focused edges with user-selectable colored lines. The peaking visibility has been improved from previous generation bodies, and transfers seamlessly into the Visoflex 020 when attached to the hot shoe of the camera, helping to ensure discretion when required. Thanks to this addition, fast aperture and longer focal lengths are now easier to use than ever before.