Marc, if I may ask...
If the AF speed & accuracy is more or less (or completely ?) the same between S2 FW updated and S-006, if the better S-006 LCD is still not good enough for checking critical focus and if the iso difference between both bodies is just an incremental upgrade, what are the motivations left for upgrading from S2 to S-006 ?
I am considering upgrading too but am a little bit confused / perplexe right now.
If the warranty is a concern maybe a new Leica protection plan for the S2 could be a good answer (for those who can still apply for it, which is my case) ?
I don't know if the other upgraded specs of the S-006 are worth it neither ? (GPS, quicker image processor, and others I can't remember) ?
Good question. Especially finding out that the S2 now seems to focus just as good.
The S(006) LCD is better, but I still wouldn't trust it for critical focus … not for some of the stuff I do. Frankly, I never much gave the LCD a second thought … when in studio, or on commercial location, I shoot tethered, and for most other work, I'm simply working to fast to stop and check the focus. Like someone else mentioned, I pretty much trust that big bright viewfinder, and just glance at the LCD to check facial expressions and composition (and of course to catch any exposure blunder) However, I understand that others have their own way of working and their own needs.
When the S(006) first came out, I didn't think it was worth the difference in price at all. So, I waited because I've learned from my Hasselblad MFD days that all good things come to those who wait.
A new S(006) warranty was definitely a part of this recent decision … three years with a loaner if the camera goes down. Plus the Promo pricing and a dealer loyalty discount from my "Leica Pusher" of over 20 years.
However, no matter how you slice it, it's roughly 2X the price of a nice S2 … or in my case a S2P with the better LCD glass. BTW, I liked the initial menu interface of the S2 over the S(006), and while the joy stick does add some functionality, I liked using the smooth round AE/L button on the rear of the S2 better for AF activation. That opinion may change once I get more familiar with the S(006).
My main motivation is that I want to preserve my current S shooting experience and aesthetic as long as possible. For me that means CCD and all CS glass. Since I do not like the cosmetic look of the S-E, that meant a S(006) which I hope serves me for the next 10 years. I saw it as a small window of opportunity before they are gone as new.
Frankly, depending on your own POV and any possibility of moving to a CMOS S or higher resolution S on down the road, I would exercise your option to extend the warranty on your S2 and put any remaining funds into lenses. $7.5K will buy a nice lens … unless you already own all of them
If you do not have the CS45/2.8, I HIGHLY recommend it … it'll make more difference than a new camera IMO.
Personally, I already have five Leica CS lenses plus my HC100/2.2 … and was a bit bummed that the 24mm nor the new 100/2 were going to be a CS lens. I may eventually get the zoom for a walk-about "Florida" kit, but that is a low priority right now.
- Marc
