Digilux 2 ?

[Wouter]

So I'm thinking of buying a digilux 2 because I like the lens and the concept. But how does it stabd up against more modern digital cameras, IQ wise ?

 

[laptoprob]

The D2 is a brilliant camera. Looks and operation almost like a regular M.
The lens is great and fast. The whole package is lightweight.
Sharpness, colour and contrast are great. I use the camera only in jpeg because the raw is sooo slow. But the in-camera jpegs are great. Settings for lower or saturation and contrast and such.
Biggest disadvantage is the small sensor, with little possibility of creating shallow dof.
But if you manage to get bokeh, it is beautiful.
Macro capability is limited.
Low ISO is very limited. Noise appears already slightly at 200. I only use higher ISO in BW, then the noise is like film grain.

All in all a nice, relatively compact and lightweight camera. And dead silent!

 

[greggebhardt]

Also be aware that many of the Digilux 2 units had defective sensors and have to be replaced. It is a know problem and hopefully the one you get will not have a problem.

 

[laptoprob]

Don't worry about the sensor problem. All of them will go and will be replaced by Leica free of charge. But by now you will find most of them will be replaced already.

 

[rpsawin]

I think laptoprob did a fine job in describing the Digilux 2. I love mine. It ceratinly has limits like all cameras. When used within those limits it's an excellent performer. My only issue with the camera is strictly a personal one and it's that I hate the evf. I just wish Leica/Panasonic would have opted for an optical vf.

Best regards,

Bob

 

[MelS]

Digilux 2

Digilux 2

I had one for a few years and recently looked at some photos from that camera and was stunned how clear and rich they are, especially on close-up or medium shots of people. It did remarkably well on trips to Italy. Friends thought I was showing them postcards. It does not perform very well in low light situations but the flash is good once you learn how to use it. I recommend it.

 

[jaapv]

Macro capability is limited.
!

Not really - there is an "Elpro" close up lens-but it is rare. It can easily be replaced by a 69-77 step-up ring and the Canon D500 macro closeup lens which is readily available. I will match the D2 equipped that way against any other portable macro camera-lens combo.

 

[photogdave]

I had the Panasonic version - the LC1. Like others have said, great for everything except high ISO. I never used it past 100.
I recently sold it because I use my film cameras much more often and prefer the film workflow to digital workflow. The sale allowed me to purchase my very first brand-new Leica item, the Elmarit-M 28mm f/2.8 ASPH!

 

[johnastovall]

What does a re-branded Panasonic P&S have to do with the Leica M8 forum?

It not even a Rangefinder.