| Ricoh GXR Digital Camera Exclusive Preview |
 If you’re a compact camera user looking to take your photography to the next level but the idea of carrying around a bulky DSLR body along with multiple lenses often equally as bulky or at least as heavy deters you, read on before you make any hasty decisions.Moments ago Ricoh internationally released its newest digital compact unit headlining the GXR as ‘the world’s smallest and lightest interchangeable lens camera system’ - and no, it’s not a digital SLR. If you’re wondering exactly what that means in plain speak, it’s simple: with the GXR, Ricoh have combined their lens, image sensor and image processor into a single unit that easily detaches from the body itself. This makes it the first non-DSLR to offer an interchangeable lens system and the first camera system to ever combine these three crucial elements into a single removable component. Unlike regular detachable lens systems where removing the lens means literally that, do so with the GXR and you remove and swap both the sensor and processor as well. So, instead of twisting the lens on and off as is currently the DSLR norm, GXR owners simply use the lens to maneuver the whole core of the body out using a slide-in mount system so all that remains is the 3-inch LCD panel and the meaty handgrip. In other words, the GXR suddenly becomes merely a shell of its former self until a different lens/camera unit is mounted. Initially the GXR will be compatible with two individual interchangeable lens/camera units: a 50mm F2.5 prime that houses a 12.3 megapixel APS-C size CMOS sensor, and a 24-72mm F2.5-4.4 lens combined with a 10 megapixel CCD sensor - and it’s fair to presume a telephoto is likely to be the next addition. Photography aficionados will know this means the 50mm is a fixed lens without zoom capabilities but the ability to shoot full HDMI video, where the 24-72mm offers some zoom but only standard video recording capability. So what’s the point in housing the lens, sensor and processor all in the same detachable unit? What benefit to the user is there in choosing this system as opposed to a standard DSLR system? Ricoh claims that in opting for the GXR, users can be assured the three individual elements (lens, sensor, processor) are finely tuned for optimum performance where with DSLR operation, regular changing of a variety of lenses can result in minor image quality anomalies. Dust spots on the sensor will no longer be a danger as the GXR’s internal mechanics are never exposed to the elements. The lens/camera units are tightly bound and from all appearances seem very well protected. Perhaps the most significant benefit of this system however, is the simple fact that the camera shell can be retained for much longer than any DSLR body currently survives in the ever-upgrading market (at least in theory anyway.) Users should be able to keep the same GXR shell for an extended amount of time and instead invest in upgrading the lens/camera units as they come along with varying focal lengths, sensor sizes and processing engines. This means that the photographer should retain an amount of proficiency and familiarity with their GXR’s interface, menu system and function control and only need to learn the capability of each lens/camera unit as it comes along. In terms of appearance, the GXR looks as though it should: it’s stamped with Ricoh’s unique all black and blockish design, which, despite appearances, rests sturdily in hand. It’s ultra compact especially considering its ability to interchange lens/camera systems, which on their own are compact little units that help increase the overall portability and capability of this GXR system as a whole. The interface of the body is simple, clean and easy-to-use and a degree of user-friendliness extends to the logically laid-out internal menu system. Interchanging the lens/camera systems is as easy, if not easier, than regular DSLR systems given the discreet size of the units and the foolproof slide-in mount mechanism. Auto, manual, shutter and aperture priorities, program, scene, and three customisable modes are available along with an ISO range of 100-3200. GXR buyers will also have the option to purchase an external electronic viewfinder that offers a full 90-degree tilt and a preview of the composition with the same 920,000 dots as seen on the LCD screen. The EVF does suffer more lag than the LCD preview however, but overall presents a clear, bright image that certain users may prefer over LCD viewing. Images shot with the GXR appeared to be pin-sharp and crystal clear although it is important to note reviewing only occurred in-camera during Buy-n-Shoot.com’s preview, which was with one of only three handmade pre-production models in the world. The portability of this system is unquestionable, the concept and design is unprecedented and therefore highly innovative, and certainly Ricoh’s reputation for producing quality cameras is well known. Not until more than a limited touch-feely is allowed however will Buy-n-Shoot.com really be able to tell whether or not it’s all smoke and mirrors. Having said that, initial impressions suggest the GXR is likely to take its place in the mid-to-high-level digital compact camera market and possibly flabbergast competing manufacturers suddenly wondering why they hadn’t thought of it before. While our initial preview with the GXR went well, we are certainly looking forward to reviewing the unit in depth and discerning in practice the benefits of this lens/sensor/processor combination. Keep your eyes peeled at Buy-n-Shoot.com for a detailed image quality review coming soon! |
About Ricoh
Founded in 1936 in Tokyo, Japan, Ricoh currently earns over $17 Billion in annual sales with 81,900 employees and offices in over 150 countries. Ricoh are a global leader in digital office solutions, contributing to the success of businesses in every corner of the world. A rich history of innovation, combined with a respect for the quality of the lives we touch, has made Ricoh who they are today.
