Amazon listed the new cameras without price and availability (for now). But they will soon start to accept preorders.
The Olympus E-PL2 + 14-42mm lens will cost $599 and be available in February (Click here to see the product page on Amazon and here to see it at BHphoto).
The Olympus XZ-1 will cost $499 and be available soon (Click here to see the product page on Amazon and here to see it at BHphoto).
4 Responses
I believe the EPL-2 is the new standard for an entry level mirrorless camera. I believe it compares favorably to the GF1, GF2, NEX, and of course the EPL-1. If they can capitalize on capturing the entry-level enthusiast market (with the EPL-2 and the XZ-1) it should serve Olympus well over the next couple of years.
Random thoughts:
(1) I think the continuous brainwashing is working (at least on me) regarding Olympus’s apparent sensor strategy. Recently, I’ve been thinking that a pro m43 camera would be appealing even without a new sensor as long as it uses the same image processor of the E5, the TruePic V+ engine. No way that I would have been satisfied with JUST that in a pro m43 camera 3 months ago.
(2) I still think there is plenty of room for a professional m43 camera that does not include robust video. A focus on still photography remains key for most of those considering a professional camera. I am re-energized by the fact that Olympus is the class leader in the compact larger sensor category. This brings additional hope for those looking for higher quality m43 cameras. I’d like n m43 camera with OLED please!
Ok, here are my requirements to an Olympus pro mirrorless camera:
– fast AF, like the combination of E-5 with Zuiko 12-60mm
– 5fps
– picture quality like E-5 (this includes the low light performance too)
– 100% compatibility/support with /of Olympus FT lenses
– EVF is ok (what else in case of a mirrorless cam.)
When they can fulfill that than I will buy one.
The ZX-1 is such a fantastic looking camera.
It will be interesting to see what Olympus can do with their JPEG engine and the 1:1.63 sensor. I am expecting the ZX-1 will produce the best image output of any P&S. Combined with the super lens and VF-2 viewfinder it will be a remarkable camera, and an instant classic in my view.