Leica has just revealed another M10 variant. Following in the footsteps of the Leica M10-P with its silent shutter, the M10-D lacking the LCD, and the M10 Monochrom with a 40MP black and white image sensor, we now have the Leica M10-R: a Version of High resolution of the Leica M10 that uses the same sensor as the Monochrom, but shoots color.
In most cases, the Leica M10-R is the twin of the M10-P: it features the same quiet shutter, touchscreen functionality, and the distinctive ISO M10 dial on the top plate. What differs is in the Leica-designed 40MP image sensor, which inherits from the recently launched Leica M10 Monochrom.
Now paired with a bayer filter for color photography, this sensor not only offers much higher resolution than the 24MP chip found in the M10, M10-P, and M10-D, but also features “image noise”. significantly reduced as well as a wider dynamic range. ” Despite using the same ISO range of 100 – 50,000, Leica assured us that low-light performance and overall dynamic range are closer than might be expected from the M10 Monochrom, and the maximum exposure time has been increased. at 16 minutes (when shooting at 100 ISO) as a result.
Here is a closer look at the new camera:
And here are some full resolution sample images (TIFF, exported as 100% JPEG) for your pixel spying pleasure. Click to enlarge:
In addition to low-light performance, when talking to Leica about the camera, they emphasized that the higher resolution sensor makes the M10-R the ideal companion for older and newer M lenses. Obviously, the newer, clinically “perfect” glass will benefit from the higher resolution, but Leica believes the additional 16MP “will also emphasize the distinctive features of older M lenses.”
Which of course brings us to the price, meaning how much will you have to pay to experience these benefits for yourself.
The Leica M10-R is available to order now starting at $ 8,295, the same launch price as the M10 Monochrom, in a black or silver finish, with shipping scheduled for late July. To learn more or choose one for yourself, go to the Leica website or preorder yours today.
