The soon to be announced LX8 will have a built-in evf like the current LF1 you see on the picture above.
An anonymous source just told me that the Panasonic LX8 will be announced within a few days. Now here is the thing I know for now:
(FT5) There will be a fixed lens Four Thirds sensor camera from Panasonic.
But what I don’t know for sure is if this will be the LX8 or if the LX8 will be a second camera with (1inch?) sensor.
I hope the sources reading this can give me an answer about that soon. Thanks!
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Previously rumored LX8 specs (not yet confirmed by trusted sources!):
– Lens will be a 24 – 90 f2 – f2.8
– Will be 3% larger than the LX7
– Will have a swivel touch screen with touch to focus and capture features
– Updated processing engine enhancing JPEG output
– EVF built in, no hotshoe
– Automatic Lenscap
– built-in 3 stop ND filter
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For sources: Sources can send me anonymous info at 43rumors@gmail.com (create a fake gmail account) or via contact form you see on the right sidebar. Thanks!
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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
60 Responses
Without 1″ inch sensor for LX8 means we have a clear winner in highend compact camera 2014 , that is RX100 m3 .
I can’t see how LX8 compete without that size of sensor , the Fuji X30 yet another disappointment .
What?? The m4/3 sensor is larger than the 1″ so what are you trying to say?
I think he meant that Panasonic would use 2/3 sensor like to Fuji.
LX8 with 4/3 sensor ?
Yes , it’ll happen , only in your fantasy .
I hope you realize a 4/3 sensor is twice the size of that in a RX100…
Makes sense, Panasonic already produces its sensors in this size. Better IQ for a lower cost…
I think somebody needs a phyisics lesson 🙂
A 12-45mm f2-2.8 lens would be pretty big and heavy. A 9-33mm lens that fast would be more feasible but still on the large size. If that spec is correct the LX8 will have at most a 1 inch sensor.
I’m pretty sure the lx8 would stay within the lx formula while any new camera type will deservedly get it’s own name.
LF1 is the ultimate P&S, IMO. Sadly, still a P&S. At first, I thought it was a plastic mock up of a camera – it is so tiny – but switched it on and omg it is a real camera!
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– Automatic Lenscap
I hope that is true. Lack of built-in lenscap and/or slim protector filter is serious problem to portability and the main reason why I am reluctant to consider seriously the cameras
What a great new micro 4/3 camera.
Looks like the days of the RX100 be the sole choice are over and Sony needs to prep the M4 with a faster AND longer lens…70mm isn’t going yo future it.
It is all a matter of opinion for what I personally need in a go everywhere camera I have found the RX100mk3 a superb option. As a low ISO shooter the loss of image quality compared to my E-M1 is minimal. The F1.8 at the wide end is pretty handy when shooting indoors/social venues etc.
Obviously if you want more specialist gear macro lenses telephotos UWA etc or shoot more at high ISO ,system cameras win easily but there is a lot to be said for tiny, so my wife tells me lol
Not sure what a Fixed Lens Four Thirds Sensor means – we know that there is an update to the GM1 coming – a GM2, not fixed – is this rumor suggesting that the LX8 has a m43 size sensor? or Panasonic is coming out with something like the Fuji X100s but a m43 size sensor? Rumors are suggesting that LX8 has a 1 inch sensor – which I think likely the only question is on the lens – 24-70mm F1.8- 2.8 but given that the LX8 is supposed to be a bit larger then the LX7 I hope it will be a 24-90mm – and not a f2.8-4.0
I was hoping the GM2 would have 3axis In Body IS – as it would be perfect with many of the small and light Olympus lenses like the 45mm F1.8 – but I guess rumors say no – Sony has IS in their RX100m3 so why could Panasonic not put IBIS in the GM2 ? I do not mind it to be a tad larger if it had IBIS.
RX100M3 has OIS and additional electronic stabilisation for video – which Panasonic also has for FZ1000, except in 4K mode.
What Happened to 4K video?
That was the initial rumor.
Yes, I’m interested to know this as well! If it has 4k, then I’ll seriously have to consider this or the fz1000. Leaning toward the fz1000 because of the zoom, but if this has a 4/3 sensor, that could be really nice for lower lighting conditions! Here’s hoping for an announcement soon!
I think it would be most unlikely that it has m4/3 sensor.
The rumor states it is only 3% larger than LX7 and it only had a 1/1.7″ sensor.
Considering also the lens would be a 24 – 90mm / f2 – f2.8 the math does not add up for a m4/3 sensor.
That being said, a 1inch sensor with the rumored lens and 4K video would be very impressive by itself.
Have you held a GM1? Pretty sure that thing is smaller than my LX5.
A m43 24-90 eq (14-45mm) f/2 to f2.8 lens would be (more than) twice the linear size of the LX7 lens. It won’t fit in the box.
I’ll be impressed if they get a 24-90 eq (14-45mm) f/2 to f2.8 lens for type 1 inch in a box the same size as the LX7.
What happened to all others parts or the rumors? Are they not confirmed by trusted sources? 4K capabilities, 1″ sensor, not-20MP, etc.
What??? Where did you get your information?
http://www.43rumors.com/ft5-panasonic-lx8-comes-with-same-1-inch-sensor-as-the-fz1000-specs-roundup/
I hope it’s made out of gold.
few days < 1 week : it should be next week
With 4K, a fast lens and a 1″ sensor, this camera can beat the Fuji X30 and the Sony RX100iii. Without 4K, it can still beat Sony on handling and price, and Fuji on IQ. But Panasonic seems to have such a head start with 4K. I can’t see them omitting it from any mid to high end model.
A fixed lens 4/3 camera would likely be larger (as would the lens) and no longer directly aimed at the Sony. Even the X30 would probably be smaller. And with a rumored GM2, it’s hard to imagine how they’ll position a fixed 4/3 model relative to these others. Unless the fixed lens 4/3 is also an organic sensor unicorn with better IQ than an X100s or even a 5DM3 or 4DS, putting it into a whole new price category. Let’s dream big! 😉
The fixed lens 4/3 model could be either
– an even more compact x100(s) competitor (if it has a prime lens) or
– a G1X II competitor with better IQ (better sensor).
I would be interested in both! 🙂
I love the X100s so a smaller, similar camera would appeal to me as well, although GM2 and small primes or even a GX7 could fit the bill with added flexibility. I love the X100s controls, VF, style, low light performance and leaf shutter. Maybe Panny can do the same.
The G1Xii actually has a larger sensor than 4/3 and a tad smaller one than the APSC found in the X100s. I’ve never used one but heard lots of bad things about the v1’s laggy shutter and focus. The v2 moved to a removable EVF, which I don’t like. By the time you attach it, the size and price buys a lot of M43 gear. 😉
It looks like Fuji will unveil their X30 on Tuesday. Then it’s Panny’s move.
The G1X II is actually very versatile and could bery well be someone’s only camera with a nice range (24-120) and an amazing bright zoom that gives it a much shallower DOF than is possible with a 1 inch sensor compact (RX 100). It is only let down by it’s sensor which is indeed a tiny bit larger than 4/3, but older and inferior in comparison to the latest 4/3 sensors, and the external EVF (for extra $). If Panasonic can use their miniaturization skills shown with the GM1 and make their camera maybe a little more compact while using a better sensor and integrating an EVF, it would make a very interesting proposition for enthusiasts that don’t want to invest in a whole camera system.
If they go for a prime (my dream: 25 mm = 50 mm equivalent) and use their aforementioned miniaturization skills, they could beat the x100(s) at it’s own game, as the x100(s) is quite nice, but not really pocketable and maybe a bit too “retro” (and expensive) for many modern users.
I was surprised about the old sensor in the G1Xii. Too bad. I’m with you on the X100s price but differ on style. A camera can’t be too retro for me 😉 We won’t have long to wait to see what Panny’s doing. Pity that Olympus Trip D (same type of X100s competitor) rumors are vanishing faster than the last rolls of Kodak BW400CN film. At least we still have Tri-X.
That Fuji is DOA. There is VERY little reason to buy a 2/3″ sensor today with the quality of smartphone cameras. 1″ sensors are the proper point at which IQ differences between them and a smartphone make them a worthy purchase.
I’d hesitate to call the X30 “DOA” until I hold it and see tests, although you’re right that purely based on IQ, it is likely to trail. But handling is also very important to some buyers, and Fuji resonates with me and many others on that front. I’m hoping the LX8 handles more like an ILC than a compact, like the Fujis usually do. But this does seem like a chance for Panasonic to jump ahead in this space. I hope they do!
Panasonic has been my favorite brand because they don’t mock up the price like sony/olym..but I have been thinking about switching because the color that comes out from Panasonic is just not good when comparing with other brands..
mainly the skin tone tends to be toward yellow/green…maybe because I’m Asian so this makes our yellow skin more yellowish
white balance
I agree.I would love to see them improve on their auto white balance.
I am hoping this fixed lens four thirds camera is something leica-esque in design quality with a fast 20mm lens.
While I don’t have much interest in micro four thirds as a system, I do use a GX7 and 20/1.7 as my everyday camera, and it’s quickly become my favorite and most used digital camera to date. If I could have all the utility of the GX7/20mm combo, but in a simple, sleek, no-nonsense package, I’d buy it in a heartbeat!
I share that wish, but realistically, if the GM2 gets an EVF, tilt screen, better controls, and is paired with the small, aperture ringed 15mm, how much more compact can it get with a fixed lens?
First of all, the GM2 you describe would be significantly larger than the GM1. And you only have to compare existing large sensor fixed prime cameras to system cameras with (roughly) equal lenses to see that there is actually *massive* miniaturization potential in going compact vs interchangeable.
Sony RX1: FF sensor, 35 mm f2.0
Fuji X100(s): APS-C sensor, 35 mm f2.0
Canon G1X II: >4/3 sensor, 24-120 f2.0-3.9
Sony RX100 III: 1/1 sensor, 24-70 f1.8-2.8
All of these are *much* more compact – and especially thinner – than any system camera with the same sensor size and (roughly) equal lenses! And that’s precisely what makes the idea of fixed lens 4/3 cameras from Panasonic and maybe Olympus (Trip-D) so attractive! m4/3 type quality in a truly (jacket-)pocketable size. What’s not to like?
Yes. And the Ricoh GR and Nikon CoolPix A are additional examples of size and quality benefits coming from a fixed lens. I’m merely pointing out that a 1″ LX8, a GM2 and the 4/3 X100s have a fair amount of overlap. Not that I wouldn’t love the choice from that embarrassment of riches. 🙂 Maybe this is why they’ve paired down the product lineup. Even two of the three would be exciting.
You’re right, the GM2 and a fixed (prime) 4/3 sensor camera from Panasonic would directly compete with each other, but with a (relatively) clear distinction of advantages – even more compact vs. more versatile. But maybe the (rumoured) fact that there even *is* a GM2 planned shows that the GM1 is a success (as is the X100(s), obviously) and could motivate Panasonic to develop other “mini” cameras, this time with a fixed lens.
The overlap with a potential 1/1 LX camera is much less obvious IMO. The IQ and especially DOF control is not really comparable.
DoF and low light of 4/3 vs 1inch are physics constrained, but low ISO image quality, camera size and price distinctions could get pretty blurry. 😉
I never claimed to want something more compact. I merely want a thoughtfully designed, well polished camera.
Me too. While shirt pocketable would be nice, I’d prefer great handling and controls a la Leica and Fuji and be happy with jacket pocket friendly. 🙂
Precisely 🙂
It sounds like we both want an affordable Leica. 🙂
I love the style of the GM1 but to my tastes, they sacrificed too much in handling to deliver that astoundingly tiny form factor. But I maintain that by being a sliver bigger (still way smaller than the GX7), they could hit the perfect balance of size and feel. With an EVF, it could be the perfect camera for the 9, 12, 15, 17, 25, and 45mm primes.
i’m really confused, is the new LX (LX8 here) will have 4/3 sensor? fixed lens but zoom or not zoom?
Given the two rumor points above: (Lens will be a 24 – 90 f2 – f2.8) /and/ (Will be 3% larger than the LX7) then the LX8 won’t have a m43 sensor.
I suspect we’ll be lucky if it has a type 1-inch sensor but we can hope for that.
You’ll see a m43 sensor in a compact with a prime lens not a zoom (and especially not a bright zoom).
thank for you reply, so there will be 3 new camera:
-new LX
-new compact with 4/3 sensor with a prime fixe lens.
-new GM
Or the rumors are confusing the next GM with fixed lens compact.
One thing to keep in mind is that Panasonic seems to have changed their strategy from “one of everything” to “target niches” (the smallest ILC, DSLR-like m43 that does 4K really well).
The fixed lens compact would fit this strategy though keep in mind that GX7 (in the pseudo-rangefinder niche) didn’t do so well.
I’d like a nice replacement for my LX7 like that. To me this kind of camera is THE smartphone camera replacement.
Would still like a GM2 as well (with 12-35mm minilens and the 14mm and 20mm pancakes). But more as a purposeful shooter that packs a punch in a bare minimum equipment kind of setting, going out the door with your mind set to take pictures (and/or video), without having to carry around tons of gear, whereas the LX8 would be there for you in case you just so happen to need it.
Could someone please explain me why they would change from a great f1.4 of the LX7 to a f2.0 for the LX8? That would be a big let down for me.
No, cause the sensor is going to be much larger than what was offered on the LX7 so the LX8 will actually have a faster lens.
Oh ok, thanks for the info 🙂
f//1.4 is faster than f/2. The sensor you put behind it doesn’t magically change the optical properties of a lens.
It does relatively…
It also has to do with the mechanical size of the lens vs sensor size. To get 1.4 on a bigger sensor means a bigger lens. To make the 1.4 continuous across all focal lengths the lens has to be even bigger. You could not produce a pocket camera if you added the f1.4 lens due to sizing required to make the lens. You would also be adding much more weight.
You get a significantly bigger sensor with better a dynamic range and cleaner high ISO.
Just for a sense of proportion and convenience, lets call the LX5 sensor a 2/3 sensor. The LX7 was a hair smaller, say, a 5/8 sensor. 4/3 is 4/3. The LX7 story, as with some others, coupled a decent sensor and a fast lens. That meant the higher, marginal ISO’s could be avoided most of the time. The model was and is a great kick around camera. From a form factor point of view, the 2/3 sensor ALSO provided the means for the lens to be small, extremely pancake-ish, but not quite flat; not quite shirt-pocket size. So the question of what the LX8 may offer depends entirely upon Panasonic’s intentions, either for the camera to follow in the LX7’s footsteps, or to be different enough to suggest that Panasonic marketing has decided to hijack your brain. At the upper bound, the hijack point, the Canon GX1-II has a more-or-less 4/3 sized sensor and a fixed, faster lens that is pancake-ish and a bit too thick. In the middle, the 3/3 sensor (one inch) has made a big splash. Sony has both an SLR style camera, and a rangefinder. The SLR-like Panasonic contender has been a big hit too. It would make the most sense for the LX7 successor to be the follow-on, one inch camera missing from the Panasonic range-finder line. Form factor wise, it wouldn’t have to be anywhere near as thick as the Canon, and Panasonic would not be guilty of derailing the LX line. My hunch is, it won’t have a 4/3 sensor. I would like to be wrong and be surprised by a flatter, fast lens in front of a 4/3 sensor, but it remains to be seen if anything beyond one inch can retain the small lens proportions.
Will it have an external mic jack? if so it BETTER be 3.5 MM
Seems like it did not get announced. We’ve been seeing these “announcements” since May this year.
Yep. I put it to a false rumor and conclude that this camera IS NOT coming.