In the wake of the recent price / availability announcements, Leica now unveiled the full specifications of the Leica S2 and four S-system lenses. The Leica S2 is a new interchangeable-lens DSLR with a sensor that is 56% bigger than a conventional “full-frame” imager. The first prototypes were shown to us at Photokina 2008, and availability is now slated for October 2009. Highlights include a 37.5-megapixel Kodak CCD with a claimed 12 stops of dynamic range, a metal focal-plane shutter with a maximum shutter speed of 1/4000 second, fast auto-focus, a large and high-eye-point TTL optical viewfinder with 0.86x magnification, interchangeable focusing screens, CompactFlash and SDHC compatibility, an HDMI port and a 3-inch rear screen with 460,000 pixels and optional sapphire glass. The Leica S2 will be available at an SRP of £15,996 from selected authorised dealers. The Leica S2-P, which includes the sapphire glass display and comes with a Platinum service package, is priced at £19,092.

Leica Press Release

The LEICA S2: In a class of its own

18 August 2009:  Following the announcement of the availability and pricing of its new S-System last month, Leica has now revealed the full specifications of the camera and lens system. This ground-breaking new product will set the standard in professional digital photography.

A perfect synthesis
The LEICA S2’s excellence is based not only on its high-resolution image sensor but also the unique S format and full range of features, such as autofocus, high-speed MAESTRO image processor, highly durable design and optimal size and ease-of-use for the professional photographer. The S2 achieves a perfect combination of the highest image quality in a camera with unrivalled ease-of-use. It breaks new ground in every way, ensuring that photographers will enjoy perfect results from a camera that is truly easy to handle. The Leica S-System is the only professional camera system to make a clean break from legacy categories such as the 35mm or medium format and was developed solely for the digital domain. This means the LEICA S2 has established its own format focused primarily on ease-of-use and optimal image quality - the Leica S format. This format pioneers the optimal quality of all components and embodies easy handling, giving photographers the creative scope they require. The decisive advantage of the LEICA S2 is in the sum of its features: flexibility, durability and easy operation combined with industry-leading resolution and image quality. The S2 outperforms other camera systems in the medium-format category, setting a completely new standard for quality.

A unique image sensor design for unparalleled quality
The S2’s image sensor was developed especially for the S system by Kodak. With a resolution of 37.5 megapixels, the 30 x 45mm CCD sensor features an aspect ratio of 3:2 and an area nearly 60% larger than that of a traditional 35mm camera, resulting in stunning image quality. In the interest of preserving image sharpness, the camera dispenses with the standard low-pass filter. Instead, Moiré effects are detected and eliminated by the camera’s internal signal processing, thus taking full advantage of the system’s high-resolution lenses. A special micro-lens pattern allows complete capture of angled light rays on the image periphery for optimal use of available light. With a sensitivity of up to ISO 1250, low-noise images can be captured under limited lighting conditions.

Compact design and familiar feel
The LEICA S2 has the look and feel of traditional 35mm SLR cameras, preserving the handling qualities that have long been appreciated by professional photographers. The integration of electronic components and the very latest design methods have made the S2 remarkably smaller than other medium-format cameras. The number of controls has been kept to a bare minimum without limiting the camera’s many features and options. Operation of the S2 becomes intuitive after minimal operation of the camera. The result is a finely balanced camera with a comfortable weight that allows photographers to work spontaneously.

The size and weight are far lower than comparable medium-format systems in a camera that features a high-resolution CCD and high-speed operation.  The LEICA S2 is not only the right choice for the studio, but also for working on location and capturing images without the use of a tripod.

Faster results with a high-speed system
The S2’s high-speed MAESTRO image processor chip and additional camera control processor deliver exceptional processing power. Fast signal processing by the MAESTRO chip allows up to 1.5 images per second at maximum resolution. The powerful MAESTRO dual processor allows high-quality JPEG files to be created in the camera – the only medium-format camera to have this feature. The LEICA S2 has slots for both Compact Flash and SD, with an option for saving RAW format Adobe DNG data onto Compact Flash and JPEG to the SD card, simultaneously. This allows for easy image viewing on the camera while streamlining post-processing. Using Adobe DNG for raw imaging data gives photographers the ultimate flexibility because this open-source data format is supported by almost all major graphic-editing and workflow solutions. Leica supplies the universal Adobe Lightroom workflow solution as part of the camera’s equipment. Leica’s proprietary Image Shuttle software allows all the S2 features to be controlled remotely from a computer, and image files are written directly onto the hard drive for immediate processing. An HDMI interface allows images to be presented and checked directly on monitors, television screens and projectors.

Reference-class lenses
The highest priority during development of the Leica S lenses was image quality. Their sophisticated design features special grades of glass and aspherical surfaces rarely found in optics of this size. In addition, lenses manufactured to extremely narrow tolerances, with each lens centered by hand, guarantees superior quality and optical performance. The maximum performance of each lens is available even at full aperture setting, or when shooting from a distance or capturing close-up images. Vignetting, distortion and chromatic aberrations have been reduced to the point of imperceptibility, eliminating the need for quality-degrading image corrections and simplifying digital post-processing considerably. The newly developed S-bayonet mount ensures rapid and precise digital exchange of data and commands between the camera and lens.

Four S series lenses will be launched for the key focal lengths by the end of 2009, including the classic LEICA SUMMARIT-S 70mm F/2.5 ASPH and the LEICA APO-TELE-ELMAR-S F/180mm telephoto lens.  The LEICA APO-MACRO-SUMMARIT-S 120mm F/2.5, the solution for close-ups and portraits, and the wide-angle LEICA SUMMARIT-S 35mm F/2.5 ASPH are set to follow in late 2009. By multiplying the listed focal distances by 0.8, the user is given a comparison to corresponding 35mm-format lenses. A selection of the S lenses will also be available in a CS variant with an integrated focal-plane shutter. Leica is planning to prioritise the expansion of its range of S lenses in the near future.

Dual shutter system
The LEICA S2 allows photographers to choose the shutter system that best matches the task at hand. The S2 is equipped with a metal focal-plane shutter with the fastest shutter speed of 1/4000 of a second and a flash synch time of 1/125 of a second. Lenses of key focal lengths will be available in the future with integrated leaf shutters designed by Leica engineers that photographers can activate via the camera’s main switch. The integrated leaf shutter allows flash units to be used at the fastest shutter speed of 1/500 of a second, giving photographers more options for suppressing unwanted ambient light. Several patents are pending for the Leica leaf shutter, which features an electronically-controlled drive guaranteeing reliable, fast exposure times and low energy consumption.

Precise, high-speed autofocus
The autofocus developed by Leica for the S2 is based on a centrally positioned cross-hair sensor for high precision focusing. Each S lens has its own Leica-designed microprocessor for precise autofocus and iris diaphragm control. The integrated focusing drive is a proprietary Leica design that features silent gearing. All S lenses have a generous focus ring with just the right amount of drag, letting the photographer override the autofocus at any time.

Rugged, durable design
The camera’s body is made of robust die-cast magnesium with a leather-grain finish for maximum grip. The S2 and all S lenses are extensively weatherproofed and can withstand exposure to rain and dust, and the USB and remote control ports feature rugged bayonet locks with strain relief. The S2 can also be supplied with a highly scratch-resistant LEICA S2-P sapphire glass display cover for the most extreme and demanding conditions.

Authorised sales and service network
The LEICA S2 is only sold through authorised dealers who also offer access to specialised support as part of the extended S-System service package. The S-System will have its own customer care team with a dedicated helpline, making immediate service accessible for any questions that may arise. Professional photographers who demand absolute reliability from their camera systems can choose from additional service package upgrades to enhance the standard warranty coverage. The Platinum service package includes free maintenance in addition to offering loan equipment for the duration of the service work. More information can be found in the service package information below.

Pricing and availability
From October 2009, LEICA S2 will be available at an SRP of £15,996 from selected authorised dealers. At £19,092, the LEICA S2-P with sapphire display includes the Platinum service package. The LEICA SUMMARIT-S 70 mm f/2.5 ASPH. at £3,096 and the LEICA APO-TELE-ELMAR-S 180 mm f/3.5 for £4,541 will also be available when the S2 is launched. The LEICA APO-MACRO-SUMMARIT-S 120 mm f/2.5, also priced at £4,541, and the LEICA SUMMARIT-S 35 mm f/2.5 ASPH., priced at £3,612, will reach the market in late 2009. The CS variant models of the S lenses will be introduced successively over time. The first CS models to reach dealers will be the LEICA SUMMARIT-S 70 mm f/2.5 ASPH. CS (£4,025), the LEICA APO-MACRO-SUMMARIT-S 120 mm f/2.5 CS and the LEICA APO-TELE-ELMAR-S 180 mm f/3,5 CS (the macro and telephoto priced at £5,160 each). The LEICA SUMMARIT-S 35 mm f/2.5 ASPH. CS will follow for £4,231. Accessories for the S2 will also be available at launch, including the professional S charging unit that recharges two batteries simultaneously (£258) as well as various components such as alternative viewfinder screens. Specialist dealers will also offer accessories such as lens caps, cable releases and the LEICA SF 58 flash unit. An S all-purpose grip will be available in early 2010 for £851. Prices include VAT.

Technical data             LEICA S2 / LEICA S2-P

Camera type:                          Digital single-lens reflex camera for use with Leica S lenses

Image sensor:                        low-noise Kodak CCD sensor. Resolution: 37.5 megapixels (7,500 x 5,000).
Size: 45 x 30mm, pixel spacing: 6µm. Aspect ratio: 3:2.
Dynamic range: 12 stops, colour depth: 16 bits per pixel, low-pass filter: none (Moiré detection and suppression using digital signal processing)

Sensitivity range:                      ISO 80 to 1250 (manual or automatic control)

Data storage (format):                DNG (approx. 75 MB per image), JPEG (basic or fine),

Memory cards:                        CompactFlash (up to 64 GB), SD cards (HC)

Maximum frame rate:                1.5 images/s, buffer memory: 1 GB (for a minimum sequence of 8 images in DNG format)

Control monitor:                      3-inch TFT with 460,000 pixels, 16 million colours, cover glass: highly abrasion and scratch resistant sapphire glass (only with the LEICA S2-P)

Connections:                          High-speed USB 2.0 (robust connection with strain-relief, cable included), HDMI, remote release, X sync, SCA3002

Exposure metering:                  Multi-field metering (5 fields), centre-weighted integral metering, spot metering (3.5%)

Exposure control:                    Program mode (with Shift function), shutter priority, aperture priority, manual metering

Shutter:                                Metal focal-plane shutter integrated in body: 1/4000 s to 32 s (B to 120 s), flash sync time: 1/125 s, optional leaf shutter in selected lenses: 1/500 s to 32 s, flash synch time: All speeds

Flash operation:                      Metering method: TTL (multi-field, center-weighted, spot), TTL-HSS rapid synchronisation up to 1/4000 s with focal plane shutter, Compatibility: fully compatible with LEICA SF 58 and devices with SCA3002 adapters

Auto Focus:                            Central crosshair sensor, focusing drive in lens

Operating Modes:                    AF Continuous, AF Single, MF, MF Override

Viewfinder:                            High eye-point pentaprism viewfinder

Magnification:                        0.86x, viewfinder field: 96%, dioptre compensation -3 to +1,

                                          focusing screen: Matte with cross-hairs (interchangeable)

Power supply:                        Li-Ion battery (7.4 V, 2150 mAh)

Housing:                                Die-cast magnesium, size (without lens):

                                          160 x 120 x 80 mm, weight: 1410 g (including battery), resistant to dust and dripping/splashing water

Scope of supply                       Software: Adobe Lightroom, Leica Image Shuttle, one battery, charging unit, USB cable

                                                     

Technical data                         LEICA SUMMARIT-S 35 mm f/2.5 ASPH. (CS)

                                                     

Lenses/groups:                                    11/9 (2 aspherical surfaces)

Optical design:                                    Rear group focusing

Image angle (diagonal,

horizontal, vertical):                                approx. 75°, 65°, 46°, approx. corresponds to 28 mm

                                                      in 35 mm-format

Aperture range:                                    2.5 to 22

Shortest distance:                                  0.55 m

Largest image scale:                              1:11

Filter thread size:                                  82 mm

Dimensions

(diameter/length):                                  88 mm/122 mm

Weight:                                              930 g (CS: 1080 g)

Technical data                                     LEICA SUMMARIT-S 70 mm f/2.5 ASPH. (CS)

                                                     

Lenses/groups:                                    8/6 + 1 protective filter (1 aspherical surface)

Optical design:                                    Floating element focusing*
Image angle (diagonal,

horizontal, vertical):                                approx. 42°, 35,5°, 24°, approx. corresponds to 56 mm

                                                      in 35 mm-format

Aperture range:                                    2.5 to 22

Shortest distance:                                  0.5 m

Largest image scale:                              1:4.7

Filter thread size:                                  82 mm

Dimensions

(diameter/length):                                  90 mm/93 mm

Weight:                                              740 g (CS: 890 g)

*during focusing the relative position of two lens elements changes compared to the rest of the optical system

Technical data                                     LEICA APO-MACRO-SUMMARIT-S 120 mm f/2.5 (CS)

                                         

Lenses/groups:                                    9/7

Optical design:                                    Floating element focusing*
Image angle (diagonal,

horizontal, vertical):                                approx. 25°, 21°, 14°, approx. corresponds to 96 mm in

                                                      35 mm-format

Aperture range:                                    2.5 to 22

Shortest distance:                                  0.57 m

Largest image scale:                              1:2

Filter thread size:                                  72 mm

Dimensions

(diameter/length):                                  91 mm/128 mm

Weight:                                              1135 g (CS: 1285 g)

*during focusing the relative position of two lens elements changes compared to the rest of the optical system

Technical data                                     LEICA APO-TELE-ELMAR-S 180 mm f/3.5 (CS)

                                         

Lenses/groups:                                    9/7

Optical design:                                    Internal focusing

Image angle (diagonal,

horizontal, vertical):                                approx. 17°, 14°, 9.5°, approx. corresponds to 144 mm

                                                      in 35 mm-format

Aperture range:                                    3.5 to 32

Shortest distance:                                  1.5 m

Largest image scale:                              1:7

Filter thread size:                                  72 mm

Dimensions

(diameter/length):                                  88 mm/151 mm

Weight:                                              1150 g (CS: 1300 g )

The Leica S-System will be available in the UK from October 2009. For further details and a list of authorised dealers including the new Leica Store Mayfair, please visit www.leica-camera.co.uk.

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