V
VladimirV
Guest
While I haven't use any of the Leicas since I consider them way overpriced and I do not like the bulk of dSLRs I can only comment on the Ricoh cameras.
I have used and own the GRD I and II, GX (5MP) and GX100 since I like the handling of the Ricoh cameras very much and for me this is what puts the fun into photography.
If you look for a small camera that has a distinct character to the images then IMHO only the GRD I and II and the Sigma DP1 will deliver from the images I've seen.
While I've criticised the DP1 regarding the terrible usability and LCD and also IMO plasticky build the IQ is very good although most people in the Sigma forums tend to overdo it with the saturation of reds and greens. But all this said, the IQ is definitely very good and has due to the Foveon sensor a different look.
The GRDs have a great lens and the images have a own style since the lens is very sharp and contrasty. The usability is as good as it gets in any camera (IMHO) and the adapter lenses make it very versatile and are optically superb without distortion. This also enables you to have a camera with a f2.4 21mm, 28mm and 40mm interchangable lenses. The GRD I jpgs have a distinct look to them but the GRD II is overall more usable and has less noise without sacrificing this too much.
The GX100 is not quite there with the GRDs but very capable and produces great images although it does not have this certain character. Still, it has the Ricoh look and renders a blue sky quite different with the "Ricoh blue". Dust is an issue but I would not worry too much about this. It seems to occur more than on the GRD though.
While none of the cameras will give you an IQ like your E-410 they might just be the right thing you were looking for. I'd recommmend you try the GRD I or II and see if you like the look of it. If zoom is required then the GX100 will do a great job even with the possibility of a required cleanup at some point.
I have used and own the GRD I and II, GX (5MP) and GX100 since I like the handling of the Ricoh cameras very much and for me this is what puts the fun into photography.
If you look for a small camera that has a distinct character to the images then IMHO only the GRD I and II and the Sigma DP1 will deliver from the images I've seen.
While I've criticised the DP1 regarding the terrible usability and LCD and also IMO plasticky build the IQ is very good although most people in the Sigma forums tend to overdo it with the saturation of reds and greens. But all this said, the IQ is definitely very good and has due to the Foveon sensor a different look.
The GRDs have a great lens and the images have a own style since the lens is very sharp and contrasty. The usability is as good as it gets in any camera (IMHO) and the adapter lenses make it very versatile and are optically superb without distortion. This also enables you to have a camera with a f2.4 21mm, 28mm and 40mm interchangable lenses. The GRD I jpgs have a distinct look to them but the GRD II is overall more usable and has less noise without sacrificing this too much.
The GX100 is not quite there with the GRDs but very capable and produces great images although it does not have this certain character. Still, it has the Ricoh look and renders a blue sky quite different with the "Ricoh blue". Dust is an issue but I would not worry too much about this. It seems to occur more than on the GRD though.
While none of the cameras will give you an IQ like your E-410 they might just be the right thing you were looking for. I'd recommmend you try the GRD I or II and see if you like the look of it. If zoom is required then the GX100 will do a great job even with the possibility of a required cleanup at some point.