The last two weeks I got more feedback from trusted sources about the next (very soon to come) new MFT camera announcements:
Panasonic GH 4K
Two more sources confirmed a new GH 4K camera announcement for the first half of 2014. They also said that the specs we posted here on 43rumors are very close to the final camera specs. Here they are:
16mp
1/8000 shutter
1mil dot OLED screen
21mm OLED viewfinder, 3,000+ dot.
Time code
200mbps mp4 All-i/100mbps IPB
4k/30p
4:2:2 10/8bit output
3G-SDI and XLR adaptor (An adaptor that the camera sits on with XLR x2, HD-SDI x4)
Price: €2799
Olympus OMD
And other sources also confirmed the entry level OMD will be announced in February. No specs yet although we can expect the camera to have minor differences only (compared with the EM5).
In short:
Both cameras are coming for sure! I didn’t get any info yet about new PEN and other G or GF cameras.
Leica and Sigma Suprises:
I am currently working to see if Sigma will make a new MFT camera. What’s 100% sure is that Leica will NOT launch an MFT camera.
P.S.: More rumors about the new lenses will be posted soon!
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Rumors classification explained (FT= FourThirds):
FT1=1-20% chance the rumor is correct
FT2=21-40% chance the rumor is correct
FT3=41-60% chance the rumor is correct
FT4=61-80% chance the rumor is correct
FT5=81-99% chance the rumor is correct
144 Responses
Entry level OMD… What does that mean? E-M1 is somehow “pro level”, will that new OMD be upper or lower the E-M5?
I won’t be upgrading to the GH4K. 4K @ 30 FPS footage is too hard to work with. The 1080p @ 60 FPS footage I get from my GH3 is just fine. I would like 1080p @ 120 FPS but I am not willing to pay over $3000 for it.
I expect 4K won’t be the only recording option, but also 1080 and probably even 720 as an option.
Likewise I expect 30fps won’t be the fastest, but I expect at least 60fps will probably be available at a low resolution such as probably 1080. And if 120fps is available many here will be absolutely ecstatic! Even if 120fps only at 720p, that would still be absolutely fantastic.
I am not going to pay over $3000 for a new 4K camera if I am not going to use 4K and if I already have one that will do great 1080p @ 60 FPS.
In short: “I don’t want a 4 K cam.” Point taken.
You don’t get it. The major selling point for cinematographers isn’t even the 4K, it’s the 10bit colour-space and bitrate.
Exactly.
Plus even if all your output is 1080 HD it can still be a huge benefit to film in 4K then output it in 1080 (for working in post, reframing for instance, or stabilisation, or just simply for a better quality 1080 image for when you’re then down sampling).
The real GH2 succesor is still missing. What I really want is something like GX7 with 10-bit 2K (2,5K) ProRes for cheaper price (like BMPCC). I´m not going to bother with 4K(unusable for me at the moment) and I´m not going to spend $3000 for it.
Would be great to see the key features of the G6/GH3 and BMPCC to be combined into one package costing under $1500!
A non weather sealed E-M5 or something like that, probably.
If I recall the various statements and rumours correctly, there were to be 3 levels of OM-D, and they would all be the “classic SLR” style.
So this level is to be below the E-M5 (E-M50?). I guess it will be a more plasticy body, no weather-sealing, fewer dials and perhaps the same VF as the E-M5 (the higher res unit in the E-M1 must cost more).
The real issue to me is: will it have PDAF on sensor? Olympus have tended not to go backwards on major specs with lower models, they tend to differentiate on minor things (e.g. no orientation sensor on E-PL1). I feel certain it will have the same sensor and image engine as the E-M1, but perhaps a lower level IBIS.
I think the rumors have been that it will be the E-M5 with more features but lower cost (than E-M1 for sure; not clear if lower than E-M5).
The only real feature E-M5 is missing is WiFi/tethering. PDAF would be nice, but may add cost. A lot of people would love a video improvement. Who could ask for anything more?
The reason I suspect it will have PDAF is that it probably doesn’t add cost. I suspect Olympus only ever has one sensor in contract manufacture at a time, this will give economy of scale. It might be MORE expensive to do a run of non PDAF sensors for one body.
I think they will cost cut in: body material & construction (no weather-sealing), IBIS system, and EVF. And it will rely more on menus than external dials, a-la-E-PM1.
Personally, I would wait for this model except for the fact that I want the PDAF for some sports events in January, and will be spending 2 months in the mountains next year, so will use the weather-sealing. I think it will be a really good camera for a good price, as the E-PL1 was compared to the E-P1. It may even have a built in flash!
They put the built in flash into the Stylus 1 (mini OM-D) that uses the E-M5’s EVF, so that could be a possibility.
Entry level OM-D ? Good question.
I always understood that OM-D was meant for more enthusiasts/pro users while PEN cameras would be for casual/enthusiasts users. So, what does mean “entry level OMD”? Is it the same as a “high end PEN”. I think, too many OLYMPUS models will just add more confusions. Or maybe OLYMPUS feel obliged to renew all their camera each year because all manufactures do so, frankly I don’t understand ….
OLYMPUS please: issue more lenses and less cameras !
I think the point is to update their ‘enthusiast’ camera models with the PDAF autofocus system from the E-M1.
I’m expecting this new camera to have the PDAF sensor, but drop the weather sealing to cut costs.
Funny timing, I was just earlier a minute ago discussing the GH4K 😀 Very pleased to read this it is confirmed again! Though the Panasonic G6 is more in my price range for my next upgrade, but it will all trickle down soon enough 😉
Why entry level OMD? I don’t get it. Olympus should focus on EM5 mk II next year.
My guess is that entry level means the EM5 replacement. EM5 = entry level OMD, EM1 = [semi] pro level OMD.
Because some people don’t have bags of money & would like an OM-D with the built in EVF. Right from when the E-M5 was released, many were asking for a cheaper version. There is also the choice now to have that Mini OM-D ( 😉 ), the Stylus 1 that does that in the style of an OM-D & with the EVF of the E-M5.
I would like an E-M6 without phase detect pixels heating up my sensor. I would like a cut ISO like 50 (I don’t care that they will have the noise of ISO 800), and an electronic shutter that goes to 1/16,000 which can of course be used for time lapse.
Please
Good luck with that.
I’d like the E-M1 innards in an E-1 body. Neither of us is going to get what we want.
I too would like ISO 50, or even ISO 25!
Especially in a Panasonic camera, very useful for video, for those of us who are not carrying around a pocketful of ND filters.
I think you’ll have to keep dreaming on that one!
Just visited the Sony shop & impressed with the A7r .
A FF camera that can be get at a affordable price .
Leica should learn fr Sony .
The new Leica system can make it expensive but not in crazy price .
If the incoming Nocticron cost more than 2k , I might reconsider it cause the A7r also cost 2.X k .
Leica is not marketing to people who want the A7. People who buy Leica cameras are looking for a specific experience. If Sony or any other came out with a legitimate rangefinder, a wide range of very small lenses, at A7 prices, then Leica may have something to worry about.
I highly doubt anyone who was SERIOUSLY considering buying a Leica would decide to go with the A7.
Wait and see what Fujifilm comes out with next year – a FF X200. That will be serious competition for Leica, excellent IQ, rangefinder-style, and a lower price. It will be a fixed lens, but that’s okay.
The X100 is not a rangefinder. It only looks like one. It’s sort of like calling a point and shoot camera mirrorless.
People may buy an X camera because it looks like a Leica and they can’t afford a Leica, but I assure you, people who can afford a Leica and want a Leica are not buying the Fuji’s because it’s a less expensive equal experience.
Btw, I’m not a Leica fan. I’m just saying that no mainstream company that I am aware of competes with Leica. Money is the only factor that comes into play, and that may cause people to go with a Sony or Fuji, but that’s really it, and Leica doesn’t really care. It’s like a Porsche vs a Corvette.
You can’t say that Fuji X series isn’t taking a bite out of Leica sales. People that wanted a Leica and it’s form factor, but can’t afford one are buying Fuji’s. Leica must know this, which is why they’re going to announce a cheaper Leica camera system, with Panasonic’s help.
Even die hard Leica fanboys, such as Steve Huff knows this, which is why he “Tries” to subtlety bash the X system, with it’s slow focusing, yet ignores Leica’s own faults. The Fuji system is a threat to Leica, as the Sony A system is a threat to all camera companies.
I hate to say it, but I don’t see M43 getting bigger. I see them slowly losing market share to the Sony’s and the Fuji’s. If Canikon compete realistically with Sony, that will be the final nail in the coffin with M43.
I am seriously thinking about moving to the Fuji system. Even though I just brought a GX7. Panasonic is smart for making the GM1 with small lenses to match. They get it. Sacrifice IQ, for compactness. This is M43.
“Sacrifice IQ”?! Panasonic actually did not sacrifice image quality for size this time around (decidedly unlike all of the GF1 successors), the GM1 is on the same level as the GX7 and therefore as all of the current MFT bodies.
Pizza, I’m not talking about sacrificing sensor quality as in not the latest sensors, I’m talking about sensor size. A 43 sensor will never be better than a APS-C sensor. So even if M43 cameras are getting better image quality wise, so are APS-C ones.
Kudos to Panasonic for putting their latest sensor in the GM1. That’s a good thing. But honestly, I think their Largest camera should be in the realm of a GX7 for stills, no larger and just make the GH for video only
I have to disagree. People who cannot afford a Leica wouldn’t have bought a Leica anyway. Now Fuji can sort of appease those who cannot afford it. If anything, Leica saw the success of Fuji and decided to go after some of that market share. I think Fuji is the one to worry, and perhaps others.
I personally love the Fuji’s. I think they really got it right in so many ways. (Although, I’ll never understand how these camera companies come out with new systems and take a step backward in auto-focus speed.) That being said, the Fuji’s are still a little on the large side, and are severely lacking in lenses. The Fuji’s also look huge next to the E-P5 and GX-7.
m43 may not be here in 10 years, who knows. However, no other system comes close to the combination of image quality and size. Even the A7 is going to be similar to the lopsided NEX cameras with very large lenses. That’s the reason I didn’t go with NEX.
My E-M1, AS A WHOLE, acts and feels better than any similar or even quite higher priced cameras out there. I’ve said it 1000 times, a well composed, properly exposed, interesting photo trumps anything, no matter what the camera. NOBODY really cares what camera took it.
Finally, I’ll argue yet again, that m43’s failing is in their marketing. I’ll bet that AT LEAST 50% of the Canon/Nikon buyers out there could care less about sensor size or depth of field. They buy those cameras because they are “better” than point and shoots. They want something that is fast and accurate. If the average person understood the recent capabilities of m43, Canon and Nikon would be shaking in their boots. That’s why I think this entry level OM-D could be something special.
As far as I know, every point-and-shoot camera is mirror-less.
I was just looking at an Adorama sale advert where they lumped the advanced Sigma fixed lens cameras into a mirror-less camera sale.
I wonder if we’ll ever see a time when Mirror-less System Camera (MSC) or Mirror-less Interchangeable Lens Camera (MILC) will become standard ways of talking about such cameras.
I think eventually it will simply be Interchangeable Lens Camera. Over time the mirrors will go away, and there won’t be SLR’s anymore.
It will likely happen in 10-15 years, but that’s a lot of time to mis-label equipment.
1/8000s on a CHF 3000.- cam? The gm-1 does 1/16000!?
Is there an option for 4K 24p?
If its fast enough to do. 4k read at 30fps it will have a 1/16,000 shutter don’t worry, the rumour is just not 100% spot on
Unlike Olympus, I reckon Panasonic has enough experience to not be dumb enough to release this camera without 24p! I wouldn’t be worried. 🙂
An affordable OMD level camera is a good thing. I think Olympus can get some real momentum if they do it right, and price it right. The biggest omission has been viewfinders in the lower-end m43 cameras. (Olympus really messed up on the E-P5 on that one) Another mistake OLy/Pana made was developing cameras that seemed more like a “step-up from a point-and-shoot,” instead of an “SLR in a smaller package.”
You are dead right about that “slr in a smaller package” comment. Enthusiasts liked the PEN but mum and dad suburbia didn’t understand or trust it. Give them a smaller DSLR looking device and they understand what they are buying.
I think Olympus is trying catch up with cashing in on the OM-D concept by offering the OM-D look alike Stylus 1 that also uses the E-M5’s EVF, a constant F/2.8 10.7 X zoom (35mm equiv. 28-300) using the 1/1.7″ sensor from the XZ-2.
Good point also on the missing EVF on the E-P5. A lot of folk will have bought the GX-7 instead for that one reason. I would have, if I didn’t place such a high value on PDAF.
The E-M5 was introduced in February of 2012.
So the entry level OMD in this case, is basically the E-M5 successor. Right? Admin?
Let’s hope that Olympus is listening, and they will improve the video features of the camera.
The fact that they go out of their way to say, entry-level, leads me to believe this will not be an E-M5 successor. The E-M5 is not entry-level. This is going to be a plastic body with similar functionality and for, hopefully, a lot less than $1,000. Olympus needs to do this right and convince people that this is a is an excellent alternative to the entry-level Canons and Nikons. (Built-in flash is one thing they need to do)
I would expect to see a lot of the Stylus 1 look and features in the entry level OMD. This includes the pop-up flash.
NO. entry level will mean a camera that will compete with the Canon SL1 and Nikon D3200. The true E-M5 replacement is do later in 2014.
This will give Olympus three camera line-up in the OMD series and three in the Pen series.
I expect this entry level Olympus will be something like the Panasonic G6 (but without being utterly absolutely awesome at video like the G6 is) such as its pricing but with some of the OMD features/abilities/styling mixed in with it.
It would be hard to market a new m43 camera to compete in that price range with fewer features than the EM5. In many respects the EM5 is already falling behind in the feature race. About the only thing they could reasonably do for a lower than EM5 spec OMD is drop the metal body and weather sealing, and maybe one control dial. They wouldn’t likely cut the 5-way IBIS, there’s nothing to cut in terms of video specs or shutter or AF performance. I guess they could cut burst rate and buffer size, but that wouldn’t save all that much money.
So if a “low-end” body will have pretty much the same features as the EM5, that leaves them in a bind on an EM5 replacement. What can they add to the current EM5 that won’t have them undercutting the EM1? Other than PDAF and better ergos, the EM1 doesn’t really offer that much, in terms of features, over the EM5.
I think there’s only room in the faux-DSLR OMD line for 2 bodies. Just as Pana has the GH3 and G6. (The GH4
(accidentally hit enter)
The GH4 will really compete in the pro video market, not the consumer / semi-pro stills market.
I don’t expect the “GH4K” will be competing directly against the GH3 as its successor. And that is what the rumours/sources have been saying. The GH4K is a totally new level device for Panasonic, so kind of mix of the Panasonic AF100 & Panasonic GH range & Canon C300.
Something else I expect will be instead coming out photographer who is in the $1k+ budget range (vs the ~US$3k-ish that the GH4K is going to cost!) and wants to upgrade from the GH3, a Panasonic GH5?
they need to be careful of the names, or the gh5 would confusingly be a lower level than the gh4. I’m totally fine if they called the gh4k something else
Why not 3 bodies?
* Entry level not weather sealed (actual EM5 specs)
* Mid-level (like EM5) weather sealed (EM5 MkII, with EM1’s EVF, WIFI et al.)
* “pro” level (EM1) weather-sealed and PDAF
Haven’t Olympus learned their lesson from the compact camera market? You don’t need multiple camera models in a line. How many iPhones are there? Apple does all right. The OMD line should have no more than two models – same for the PENs.
At most I think Olympus should make only 6 cameras – 2 advanced compacts, 2 Pen and 2 OMD. By concentrating your efforts on fewer models you have more resources to make the few as good as you can make them. You also save on inventory and support costs. Think Apple.
Having multiple models just confuses consumers.
+1
+ 1
Agreed, but with the success of the OMD, Olympus is going to milk that look until photographers are disgusted with it.
Sumsung is now the biggest player in mobile. Do you know how many models they have?
That’s why I won’t buy any of them.
What is the problem with having choice?
It means you can have something close to what you like
I can have something close to what I like
Even when we want radically different things.
Choice is only bad when there isn’t clear differentiation between choices.
Yaa, first Idon’t need a new smartphone 😉 Jokes aside, I know that more choices we have, the better, but talking about Samsung smartphones: choice is so wide that I, as an Apple user, can’t really say what’s the difference between all of them (apart from size).
I’m not saying that they’re not good, but it’s an example: someone coming from a different system might be confused by the wide range of appearently similar if not identical models.
Stylus/Pen/Omd are three different lines and this is quite obvious.
Adding three model to each line can add confusion to newbes.
My just two cents. 😉
Samsung’s or Olympus’ product palettes have nothing to do with a wider choice. They are all pretty unfocussed toys, badly crippled, and they will be worthless in a couple of years. The odds are, they will be broken in 2 years and one month. Let me throw Sony consumer and Panasonic into the pack of glorified crap makers.
Of course, they all throw in a couple of cosmetic differences for suckers. Would you take that metallic silver with that 5-years-old hunk of chips? Or would you rather have the all-new special feature package, based on 10-years-old tech? We did not test it because the consumer is the beta tester, and we have to “accelerate innovation” 🙂
But hey, feel free to enjoy your choices, mate 🙂
And you represent 99% of the smartphone buyers?
@bogolisk who said that? Read above: I’m not even interested in a new smartphone. If I would, I’d be in a proper forum. Geez people are picky sometimes.. 🙂
@Marco’s point is a good one though. For example: I need (want) a camera for sports photography. A DSLR would be ideal, but it’s a field with so many choices (and a steep learning curve) I don’t even want to get started in it! So I’ve been patiently waiting for PDAF to be added to m43, so I can upgrade from my E-PL1 AND handle sports photography with the one purchase.
Do Samsung know how many models they make? I doubt that they can keep track of them.
I suspect that they know how many cameras they make because they would be the red ink on the page of their ledger.
Agree. PEN line was already confusing: epx, epmx, eplx. People are usually lazy and don’t spend a lot of time trying to compare different features of similar products.
Doing a couple of models, a basic one and a “high grade” in PEN line and OMD line should be enough.
And don’t forget to put a unique feature in each model but don’t release any single camera with the lot, people love it
How may iPhone models ?
3 x 5S models
9 if you include colour choice
2x 5C models
10 if you include colour choice
1 4s model
2 if you include colour choice
Compared to 6x PEN models and 2x OM-D’s
So if Apple is “doing it right” with either 6 or 21 (!) models, depending on how you count them, they either have a comparable range or a vastly broader range than Olympus mFT cameras.
Not fair because I’m not including compacts ? Well, I didn’t include Apple iPod Touch models either.
The only “difference” between iPhone models is the amount of internal memory.
Otherwise they are exactly the same.
So, essentially there are only TWO iPhones; 5S and 5C.
Exactly. Apple is the worst comparison since their product lines are very distinguishable.
Apple’s product lines are very well marketed. Nothing to do with being distinguishable.
Apple’s products would be nothing without the marketing.
When I visit any of my local camera shops, what I notice are the 8-10 models of DSLR on display for each of Canon and Nikon (along with a dozen or more lenses), and then, if I know where to look, the dimly lit corner with one OM-D (which model varies), two Pens, three Panasonic, two Sony (one Nex, one Alpha), one Fuji and a Pentax.
The problem for the consumer isn’t too few or too many mFT models. The problem remains that camera shops struggle to see beyond Canon and Nikon.
Whether the new entry-level OM-D is the E-M6 or E-M5/II or E-M10 doesn’t worry me, but I would like it priced as entry-level to encourage first a time buyers to consider it instead of the entry-level Canon or Nikon (no idea what models they are – I find their model designations about as clear as Panasonic’s)
When I was at a pro cam shop on Berne last Saturday I was quite surprised to hear that they sell more e-m5 than any other dslr or ilc. At that time they just sold an e-m1 and a used e-m5.
I’ve also been told that customers and manufacturers start realising how serious and versatile m43 has become.
I was there to pick up my A3 prints and I must say m43 IQ and 16mp resolution is more than sufficient. I’m gonna pick my other print in sizes A2 and A1 tomorrow and then we’ll see.
You’re lucky. It’s rare that I’ve seen a store with more than Canon or Nikon equipment, although Sony might be there, also.
+1
I’d LOVE to see a Tough/Underwater version of the XZ2! That would be amazing!
I’ve had two Olympus Tough cameras (1030SW TG1) and they’re really great, but one with a bigger sensor, better lens and shoots RAW would be fantastic! The UI could use a lot of work, but that’s on par with every other Oly camera.
I don’t really consider compacts when I look at their lineup. I think even most consumers understand the difference when they are looking to make the jump. However, when they make that jump they want something that is in their mind a true jump, like to a dSLR.
I think the E-PL and E-PM cameras are confusing and unnessesary to have two. You really just need the E-P5 for advanced features, and E-PL for more entry level. BOTH with viewfinders!! The E-PM, which I just bought on the sale, is VERY much a point and shoot experience. I can see why no one would pay up.
As far as OM-D, I think people understand entry-level, mid-level and pro-level. Like I mentioned, if they do this right, and don’t over-dumb it down, they will have a hit.
Another mistake they have made is duming the cameras down trying to force people to pay up. When they need to be giving the entry-level such a great experience that they just WANT to pay up. Sort of the thinking of, “wow, if this camera is so good, then the next one up must be amazing!” Like what I did when I bought the E-M1… And LOVE it! Lol
Question: How many iPhone’s?
Answer: Too many.
😀
To me the Olympus OMD cameras just miss the whole point of why micro 4/3 was introduced to the market at the first place. One of the foremost arguments of micro 4/3 was its smaller size in regard to APS-C and full frame cameras. That seemed like a good argument to me. Panasonic and Olympus made the sensor smaller in order to create smaller cameras and lenses. But now why the OMD, which is just about the same size and with a lot of lenses of the same size as an APS-C DSLR and even costs the same. So why would you buy this camera and not an APS-C?
Their larger cameras are geared towards the Pro or Prosumer market, not sub $1,000 level bargain hunters like you. Pros demand bodies they can easily handle in their hands, with lots of easy access buttons.
@Rinse, the reason for the E-M1 and GH3 being bigger is so they can adequately handle the brighter larger zooms now available. And, you still have available the more compact bodies that go well with the primes and the “smaller is better” ethos. Also, a careful comparison of lenses available for APSC cameras will show you that they are considerably larger for a similar aperture value. Please find a 24-8-/2.8 the size of the Olympus in APSC! Sure, this doesn’t equate to similar DOF, but these are the compromises we all make. And I would rather have greater DOF at F2.8 for landscapes in the evening for example, because then I can use a lower ISO value…….
M4/3 gives you the *choice*, of going with your bulky GH3 on a shoot when you want the ergonomics of that extra size and heft, but also being able to use your entire lens collection with your GM1 when you want to go tiny and light.
APS-C doesn’t give you that choice, it is always big and hefty all the time. No options.
“APS-C doesn’t give you that choice, it is always big and hefty all the time. No options.”
Zero options at all in APS-C of going light? If you’re talking DSLR, probably, yes. But in mirrorless APS-C, there are some options. With Sony E-mount, options would be a 3 or 5 series body with the 20/2.8 pancake; or even the 35/1.8 OSS which is still fairly compact for a lens with stabilisation. Or you can adapt countless numbers of compact legacy fast glass and use MF with focus peaking. With Fuji X, going light would mean either a X-M1 or X-A1 body with the 27/2.8 pancake, which is rated as a high quality lens, whose main flaw is the poor quality rendering of its out of focus areas. (Not really surprising for a pancake lens.)
Certainly not as many options as m43, but options nonetheless for a compact and light walkabout system camera in APS-C.
There is also this constant theme by some that Fuji X “has a lack of lenses”. The Fuji X lens lineup is quite sufficient already for many users. Lenses on the roadmap have been delayed, however, this happens across all systems, including m43. For the traditional photojournalist or travel photographer’s kit of 24-90mm focal range, Fuji delivers with the 14/2.8 (21mm), the 23/1.4 (35mm), the 35/1.4 (53mm), and 56/1.2 (84mm) coming early in 2014. Throw in the 27/2.8 (41mm) pancake, the 60/2.8 macro and the 18-55/2.8-5 zoom, and for me and my type of shooting, that is a fairly complete system. UWA fans are also waiting for the 10-24/4 OSS. I’m not interested in telephoto, so the lack of those options doesn’t concern me whatever system I’m using or considering. Fuji has a 55-200/3.5-4.8 OSS which is quite a large lens on the X cameras, but optically a very good lens. The main negative for me with the Fuji X system is that there are few real budget options for lenses. It is not a system designed to cater for budget or low end users, once you get beyond the “kit lenses”.
I have very little interest in a FF mirrorless system. APS-C does most of what I need at a reasonably affordable price. m43 is a good system and serves its purpose well. Especially for video, it has a strong capability in the Panasonic cameras. But a lot of m43 gear is getting quite expensive, and will continue to get more expensive as it seeks higher end users. Certainly the E-M1 with 12-40/2.8 is a good system, for those who can afford it. I think this is a better kit than most similarly specified APS-C DSLRs. But the traditional DSLR market is winning on price. m43 has to compete by convincing the market on features, handling and usability. Because I don’t think m43 can yet compete on volume and price.
I guess you never held a Fuji in your hands…
The E-M1 and the GH3 is marketed for the same market as the Canon 7D and the Nikon D300S. In that market the two MFT cameras and lenses are significately smaller.
Nikon has been killing themselves in not bringing about the pro successor to the D300s, the D300s is getting so old now! (and the D7100 isn’t for everybody, although personally I’d love to get the D7100) And likewise Nikon has been abandoning their DX range of lens in not bringing out more at a steady rate for the pros.
When looked at from this perspective, M4/3 cameras and their lenses are very attractive compared to the APS-C offerings.
only 8 bit?, I wont buy it. I go for at least 10 bit or RAW
I read “4.2.2 10/8 bit”, like switchable option bro, which is pretty darn decent
Admin,
Any news about the form factor of the GH4?
From what sources have said beforehand I expect it to be similar-ish to the GH3 and C300 as examples (so won’t be a camcorder or ENG kind of thing).
The E-M5 costs 599€ here in Finland. Is there any point in making a cheaper OM-D than that? I hope they will update the E-M5, not downgrade it.
It’s an exceptional situation with the arrival of EM-1, normal price should be close to 1000.
Maybe a cheaper OMD is not attractive to those who already own EM-5, but it’s important for marketing reasons.
3 choices is a magic number in sales techniques, this say EM-10, should cost 500, or 750 with kit-lens.
And it’s interesting for point & shoot up-graders: for the same price of high level compacts they get into interchangeable lens.
A imagine this EM-10 like an m4/3 sensor Stylus, obviously without lens.
Please admin give us good news about a Zuiko 25 mm!
Speaking about P&S upgrader, 750 with kit lens would kill the new stylus1… I don’t think this new OM-D will be priced that low (even if I wish so 🙂 ).
The entry level OMD should be like the new Stylus 1 but with an MTF size sensor and MFT lens mount. So without the Stylus 1 built-in f2.8 lens the entry level OMD just might be less espensive than the Stylus 1. I would expect it to be price a little more than the E-PL5 and less than the E-P5.
Why not be priced that low? The Panasonic G6 was priced in that price region. And this is what I expect this camera will be like, Olympus’ answer to the Panasonic G6 (though Oympus’ one will suck at video probably… :-/ Unlike the awesome G6).
2800 euro for a M43 camera? Its a madhouse.
If you knew ANYTHING about videography you’d realise with specs like what we’ve read that this is an *amazing* deal if it works out as well as the earlier GH models have performed:
1mil dot OLED screen
Time code
200mbps mp4 All-i/100mbps IPB
4k/30p
4:2:2 10/8bit output
3G-SDI and XLR adaptor (An adaptor that the camera sits on with XLR x2, HD-SDI x4)
Will this be the first H265 camera?
Haven’t seen anything yet which indicates that, so I’d doubt it?
did you see the SDI and XLR part?
this is not your average photocamera that does video, this is a high end video workhorse in a photocamera form factor.
that price could be very reasonable *IF* they don’t skimp on features and build quality.
What is it with saying that some prizes are too high for one camera system. If a m43 camera offers better video functionality than any ff DSLR why not charge for it? Just because the sensor is smaller?
Indeed, these people would flip out if they saw the prices that have been charged for ENG cameras with their tiny as chips!
It’s going to be very interesting with the digital bolex coming out around the same time (finally) with its 2k ccd raw image with great dynamic range and comparing it to the megapixel 4k h265 compressed files in the Panasonic. The arguments are going to be similar to the M9 vs D800.
I just searched and I can’t see anywhere that the GH4K is going to do H265?!
Dear Olympus, please give us 60p 1080. Thankyou
4k/30p sounds good. It should look like a camcorder not like a DSLR.
this is really offtopic but I will post it anyway. 🙂
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151794086610264&set=a.10151794059945264.1073741878.10212595263&type=3&theater
Someone has filmed metallica with EM1 at antarctica. 😀
Admin, any news on the release date of the 42.5mm?
Clueless. Why no 24 or 25p on the GH5??
I’m sure it will have 24P (and likely 25P). 30P is just the fastest framerate that it can shoot 4K video.
“200mbps mp4 All-i/100mbps IPB”
This sounds like AVC-Intra/AVC-Ultra… meaning microP2. One would think if one part of the company were developing a camera aimed at segment of the market another division caters to, they would at least try and use a uniform codec. If not, then the folks at the various divisions really need to talk to each other because they’re basically developing competing products.
I’ve bought new Panasonic Bodies every year but won’t be buying any more MFT mount bodies that don’t support RAW at either 720 or 1080p at 24 fps.
Any hybrid shooter won’t want to miss RAW editing tools in video. I could care less about 4K.
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RAW video isn’t made for the normal consumer. Shooting RAW video = takes a lot of memory space, takes lot of time to tweak, takes a powerhouse computer.
Entry level OMD? 🙁
I was hoping to see the actual successor to the EM-5. Entry level usually means basic and stripped of features. Not interesting for OMD line if they do that.
If an entry level OMD brings more new users into the OMD range (and into giving m4/3 a go) this only a very good thing for the future of OMD! (and m4/3)
GH4 will have a GX7 sensor. From what I have read its specs are such it can get us
4 K….
It is sad to see, in which direction the GH product line develops. Instead of becoming an optimal tool for photographers, as the GH2 was at its time, the GH line deformed to a fat, and now expensive videographer machine, which is total overkill for photographers mostly interested in photography. This happens while Panasonic offers nothing serious for enthusiast photographers, which have no stake in video and certainly won’t need and have the resources to deal woth 4K video. The Gx is too speced down (and currently lacks a competetive view finder) in terms of performance and control layout to compete with the E-M1, and the GX7 is for many just too small, not the right body type.
With the proposition of the GH4 to be a fat 4K video machine at a massive 2,500+ $ price tag, I see system camera photographers escaping in masses from Panasonic to move to Olympus or even worse to a non m4/3 competitor.
Certainly, with that specs, price tag and feature concept, the GH4 won’t be of interest to me. A true GH2 successor is missing. As such, I am happy that I abandoned a “fellowship” with Panasonic products – starting with the G1 in early 2009 – and moved on to Olympus bodies with the E-M5 and now the E-M1, which are both tools, much better tailored for stills photographers than the current and apparently future Panasonic m4/3 bodies are. What a sad and disappointing development!
Oh, so negative? Surely, you should be happy that Olympus focus on “you”, the photographer, and Panasonic focus on “them”, the videographers. Sure, you had to change brands, but overall you are doing really well out of the format by the sound of things. Why so sad? Surely the differentiation is good for the format overall, because it means it appeals to a broader section of users, thus ensuring the longevity of the system.
Try being a “glass half full” person, it’s so much more fun!
Why not being negative? I want to have choices. But currently Panasonic diminishes choices. There are currently and in the foreseeable roadmap no very good options from Panasonic for the ambitious stills photographers, who don’t care for video and don’t want to accept video driven compromises like 16:9 view finders with inappropriate optics or a horrendous price tag (as for the GH4). Where is Panasonic’s stills photographer’s camera with the robustness and performance of the E-M1 and its ergonomic and haptically excellent control layout?
I would argue that the GX7 is a very good stills orientated camera.
I’m an Olympus user but I think that Panasonic should be applauded for bringing out the camera that the E-P5 should have been.
And they had the intelligence to listen to people who wanted a Panasonic but were buying Olympus because of IBIS.
DomTom +1000
As much as it irritates me how utterly and completely Olympus ignores video (how idiotic to not simply have 24/25/30fps on all its cameras? That would be one simple step to get started with!), the Micro Four Thirds system as a whole is much stronger for having Olympus and Panasonic each focussing on their strengths.
Wasn’t it reported that the GH 4K won’t be a replacement for the GH3?
Also, the GH3 didn’t become bulkier just to cater to videographers, but to offer more manual controls and it’s also supposed to be a more rugged photography tool.
Oh ye of little faith! Panasonic doesn’t always signal their moves: think of both the GX7 and the GM1 which are both still photographer’s cameras. I do not feel compelled to abandon the brand. Tried the EM5 and didn’t like it. The EM1 is supposed to be a very good camera but I haven’t had a chance to handle it yet. But my priorities are the GX7 and GM1 at this point anyway. Will see what the next larger Panasonic camera or cameras for larger lenses look like after that.
What’s wrong with the G6?
i think its safe to assume that panasonic will be releasing something to compete in the huge space left between the gh3 and the “gh4”. i for one however will be ready for that gh4k camera as soon as its anounced for hybrid work it would be a killa cam.
I’ll just wait on the GH5 😉
There is something we are not being told here. How can Panasonic replace a $1200 camera with one that costs more than twice as much? It seems that logically there are two DSLR style cameras that will come below this specialized video camera on the depth chart: a G series successor to the G6, and a GH series sucessor to complete with the EM1. I suppose that these two could be combined into one G1-GH2 sized camera for $1000 or so. But there is more here than meets the eye.
I think this is a possible outcome. G7 with GX7 stil and video IQ, with mic etc on one hand. And may be somehting similiar with weathersealing and who knows PDAF at tyhe higher end to compete with the Oly EM1. And Oly EM1 kind of cam with GX7 video would be a true competitor. But, to my mind, of this is somehwere in summer they are again too late. A year behind EM1 means the next iteration of that cam is moreless around the corner…
So…I think what Panasonic needs in their EM1 rival is a sensor that is significantly better than the EM1.
Oly has surely turned the tables on Panasonic with the EM5 with Sony. They are in the lead and I think that is how it is gone stay….
This camera will not be a GH3 successor. This is a high-end specialized camera, judging by the specs. In fact, I’d be willing to bet it will not be called GH 4K. The GH4 will come along soon, I’m sure.
Agreed, this is new space for Panasonic that they’re entering with this camera. Going to compete against Canon’s cinema EOS range.
Don’t worry, a successor to the GH3 will still be coming along one day!
I’m sure you are all correct that this video focused camera probably isn’t a direct GH3 successor. So, for the more stills oriented Panasonic fans, what can we expect in the GH5? A return to the GH2 size perhaps, most of the video features of the above rumour, plus PDAF? Surely, Panasonic need PDAF to keep up with Olympus and to capture DSLR users?
If the GH4 has a global shutter, I will most likely buy.
Make it 100th comments. Looking forward to seeing progresses from m4/3 or other system in 2014.
$3000 is abit too much in my opinion since I’m not a pro videographer. I will definitely get the GH3 when it’s cheaper and use it for video along with my Oly E-M1.
Just get the G6 if you want a camera for video instead of waiting for the GH3 to get cheaper! The G6 is already going for under $500 😮 And many see the G6 as the true successor to the GH2, rather than the GH3.
http://personal-view.com/talks/discussion/6788/panasonic-g6-topic-gh2-replacement-camera/
Yeah good call David. I forgot about the G6.
With the GH line perhaps seemingly going bigger and ever more expensive, maybe those of us who love the small price and size of the GH2/GH1 need to look to the G line up in the future to get the same small price & size but packing a big package of features and quality?
I wonder what the Panasonic G7 will bring? 😉
To me, the most significant comment is that Sigma may produce an MFT camera. That would be a huge boost for the MFT format as they’d likely follow up quite quickly with MFT versions of many of their stellar lenses.
I hope so too!!!
I’d love to see a half dozen more Sigma lenses designed just for m4/3!
Choice is always good. I think the EM6 will have a cheaper plastic build, no battery grip support and no weather sealing. In addition, since it has no weather sealing, it can equip with a LCD screen with much higher resolution instead of OLED. Olympus can sell that for 599 to boost their market share.
I would take it a step further. No IBIS, No view finder, Use the old Panasonic 12Mpx sensor, fixed LCD instead of tilting, no touch screen, 14-42 kit lens, make it available in red, blue and white and limit the burst rate to 3fps. Perfect competitor to entry level DSLRs 🙂
wow flagship model
No major difference between the new entry-level OMD and E-M5? ?? ???
Why bother? Why not just sell the E-M5 cheaper, now that all development costs should be recovered? And then release a proper update for the E-M5, which unlike the E-M1 is the mainstream product, the bread and butter, and what Olympus needs in 2014 as the E-M5 is tired and the E-M1 a bit too big, niche and expensive?
The E-M5 replacement is due. Now. It should have the same size, unlike the E-M1, the bigger EVF, 1/8000 sec, and a new sensor that has real IQ improvement, not held back due to PDAF. Without this replacement, Olympus will struggle, as the E-M1 is a little too PRO for mass sales, in size, price but not in IQ, which is still the same as the GX7, GH3, E-M5, E-PM2, E-PL5, GM1, and E-P5.
At that price, it’s strictly for professional and aspiring professional videographers.
What I’m awaiting is a G7 with IBIS, the newer sensor, and more refined focus-peaking, and the same or better OLED finder and screen relative to the G6, for slightly lower cost than the GX7.