Ricoh Caplio CX1

“A beautiful compact camera… disappointing is the image quality.”

LetsGoDigital has posted their review of the Ricoh Caplio CX1 [QuickPrice Check] (available from Amazon UK), with 9.29MP resolution, Sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 7.1x optical zoom (28-200mm equiv.), 3.0-in. high resolution (920,000 dots) LCD, Dynamic Range Double Shot mode, Brightness and Contrast Level Compensation, Easy Shooting mode, Scene Modes, Electronic Level, Continuous Shooting 4fps, and Movie 640×480 @ 30fps.

[ Read the Ricoh CX1 Review at: LetsGoDigital ]

Ricoh GXR with the S10 Unit

In a move that will go down in camera history as a classic case of innovation gone wrong, Ricoh has announced today a new “Interchangeable Unit” camera where you change the lens and image sensor as an integrated unit.

In the Ricoh GXR, each lens / unit combo “optimizes” the sensor used for the particular lens. For example, if you use a long zoom, you get a tiny sensor. Each unit also comes with shutter mechanism, aperture, and its own image processing engine.

Umm, that’s basically the whole camera, leaving a shell of handgrip, battery, LCD, flash and memory card compartment!

Camera units currently available are:

• A12 – 50mm F2.5 Macro with a 12.3M (23.6 x 15.7mm) CMOS sensor
• S10 – 24-72mm F2.5-4.4 with a 10M (1/1.7-in.) CCD sensor

Instead of coming up with a large sensor digital camera that can accept interchangeable lenses, Ricoh is basically asking photographers to play Russian Roulette with their image quality every time they swap lens.

Currently, only the A12 50mm unit uses a large APS-size sensor. The S10 24-72mm unit uses a tiny 1/1.7-in. sensor. It’s only 3x optical zoom and they can’t even use an APS-size sensor? Using a tiny 1/1.7-in. sensor is equivalent of using digital zoom with only part of the larger image sensor.

If other units will feature zoom lenses with the same large APS-size sensor, then the question becomes, Why pay twice for the same sensor (and processor and shutter) when you are just swapping lenses?

If some European magazine or association gives this camera an award, I’m going to scream…

According to Imaging Resource, Minolta first came out with that [not so] brillant idea and IR concluded the Minolta Dimage EX1500 Zoom could well be “the first ‘obsolescence proof’ digital camera!” — and we all know what happened to Minolta.

Ricoh Announces the GXR Interchangeable Unit Camera System

Lens, image sensor, and image processing engine integrated into a single interchangeable unit. World’s smallest and lightest*.

Tokyo, Japan (PRWEB) November 10, 2009 — Ricoh Co., Ltd. (president and CEO: Shiro Kondo) today announced the development and release of the GXR interchangeable unit camera system featuring the world’s smallest and lightest* digital camera with the ability to change lenses.

Ricoh GXR with the A12 Unit

The new GXR is an interchangeable unit camera system in which lenses are changed by using a slide-in mount system to attach camera units to the body. The lens, image sensor, and image processing engine are integrated into the camera units so the body itself does not contain an image sensor.

Ricoh GXR Shell

With world-leading small size and low weight* enabling easy carrying, the GXR interchangeable unit camera system features a highly rigid magnesium alloy body and multiple camera units that can be changed to best fit the scene to be photographed. You can enjoy easy lens changes as well as amazing image quality and shooting flexibility. Concealing infinite possibilities in its small body, the GXR is a revolutionary camera system that pioneers a new realm of photography.

Ricoh GXR Back View

Distinctive characteristics

1. Lens, image sensor, and image processing engine comprise an integrated unit which can be changed to match the scene being photographed
2. World’s smallest and lightest* digital camera with interchangeable lenses
3. System potential expanded through use of interchangeable units

* Internal flash, interchangeable lens digital cameras with lens attached.
As of November 10, 2009, Ricoh research.

For more information: http://www.ricoh.com/r_dc/gxr/

Related Links:

• Ricoh GXR Technical Specifications
• Ricoh GXR Sample Images
• Ricoh GXR micro site

Ricoh CX2

“The Ricoh CX2 remains a great pocket camera for the keen photographer.”

PhotographyBLOG has posted their review of the Ricoh GX200, a compact ultra zoom digital camera with 9.29MP resolution, Sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 10.7x wide-angle optical zoom (28-300mm equiv.), 3.0-in. high resolution (920,000 dots) LCD, Pre AF, Dynamic Range Double Shot mode, Easy Shooting mode, Scene Modes, Electronic Level, Continuous Shooting 5fps, and Movie 640×480 @ 30fps.

[ Read the Ricoh CX2 Review at: PhotographyBLOG ]

Related Links:
- Ricoh CX2 Technical Specifications
- Ricoh CX2 Sample Images

Ricoh GX200

“One of the cheapest "serious" compact digital cameras.”

DigiCamReview has posted their review of the Ricoh Caplio GX200 [QuickPrice Check - US - UK], a compact digital camera with 12.1MP resolution (1/1.7-in. CCD), Sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 3x wide-angle optical zoom (24-72mm equiv.), 2.7-in. high resolution (460,000 dots) LCD, AE/AF target shift, Aperture auto shift, Automatic brightness level compensation function, Distortion compensation function, P, A and M shooting WB compensation, 1:1 square format in RAW, Electronic Level, Continuous Shooting @ 1.4fps, and Movie 640 x 480@ 30fps. Optional accessories include an electronic viewfinder that clips into the hotshoe, wide-angle converter (19mm equiv.), and tele converter (135mm equiv.).

Related Links:
- Ricoh GX200 Technical Specifications
- Ricoh GX200 Sample Images

Ricoh GR Digital III

“A very sophisticated camera that offers a wealth of exposure options.”

Steve’s Digicams has posted their review of the Ricoh GR Digital III [QuickPrice Check], with 10MP resolution (1/1.7-in. CCD), Sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 28 (equiv.) F1.9 fixed lens, 3.0-in. LCD (920K dots), PASM, Pixel output interpolation algorithm to expand dynamic range by up to +1 EV equivalent, Dynamic range double shot, Multi-pattern auto white balance, Fast AF in low-light situations, Full Press Snap at set focal distance, Pre-AF, AE/AF target shift, Aspect ratio 1:1 square format mode, WB Bracketing, Color Bracketing, Electronic level, and Movie 640×480 @ 30fps.

Related Links:
- Ricoh GR Digital III Technical Specifications
- Ricoh GR Digital III Sample Images

Ricoh CX2

“A very accomplished camera.”

TrustedReviews has posted their review of the Ricoh GX200, a compact ultra zoom digital camera with “easy-to-use handling, all for a very reasonable price” and featuring 9.29MP resolution, Sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 10.7x wide-angle optical zoom (28-300mm equiv.), 3.0-in. high resolution (920,000 dots) LCD, Pre AF, Dynamic Range Double Shot mode, Easy Shooting mode, Scene Modes, Electronic Level, Continuous Shooting 5fps, and Movie 640×480 @ 30fps.

[ Read the Ricoh CX2 Review at: TrustedReviews ]

Related Links:
- Ricoh CX2 Technical Specifications
- Ricoh CX2 Sample Images

Ricoh GR Digital III

“Image quality is comparable with the very best that compact cameras can offer.”

TrustedReviews has posted their review of the Ricoh GR Digital III [QuickPrice Check], a digital camera that is “a genuine pleasure to use“with its 10MP resolution (1/1.7-in. CCD), Sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 28 (equiv.) F1.9 fixed lens, 3.0-in. LCD (920K dots), PASM, Pixel output interpolation algorithm to expand dynamic range by up to +1 EV equivalent, Dynamic range double shot, Multi-pattern auto white balance, Fast AF in low-light situations, Full Press Snap at set focal distance, Pre-AF, AE/AF target shift, Aspect ratio 1:1 square format mode, WB Bracketing, Color Bracketing, Electronic level, and Movie 640×480 @ 30fps.

Related Links:
- Ricoh GR Digital III Technical Specifications
- Ricoh GR Digital III Sample Images

Ricoh GR Digital III

“A thinking photographer’s dream camera.”

PhotographyBLOG has posted their review of the Ricoh GR Digital III [QuickPrice Check], with 10MP resolution (1/1.7-in. CCD), Sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 28 (equiv.) F1.9 fixed lens, 3.0-in. LCD (920K dots), PASM, Pixel output interpolation algorithm to expand dynamic range by up to +1 EV equivalent, Dynamic range double shot, Multi-pattern auto white balance, Fast AF in low-light situations, Full Press Snap at set focal distance, Pre-AF, AE/AF target shift, Aspect ratio 1:1 square format mode, WB Bracketing, Color Bracketing, Electronic level, and Movie 640×480 @ 30fps.

Related Links:
- Ricoh GR Digital III Technical Specifications
- Ricoh GR Digital III Sample Images

Ricoh CX2

Ricoh announces the CX2

10.7x Optical zoom (28-300 mm) compact digital camera with 5 frame/sec. high-speed continuous shooting

Tokyo, Japan, August 20, 2009—Ricoh Co., Ltd. (president and CEO: Shiro Kondo) today announced the development and release of the CX2, a new digital camera featuring a high magnification 10.7x (28-300 mm) optical wide-angle zoom lens in a compact body only 29.4 mm thick. The CX2 is capable of 5 frame/second high-speed continuous shooting of still images with the maximum number of pixels.

The new CX2 inherits many popular features from its predecessor, the CX1 (introduced March 13, 2009), such as the high image quality and expanded dynamic range made possible by image processing engine Smooth Imaging Engine IV and a high-speed image processing CMOS sensor. At the same time, it enhances functions that expand photo possibilities in a number of areas, including (1) a 10.7x optical zoom lens that expands shooting capabilities from wide-angle through telephoto range, (2) high-speed continuous shooting (approx. 5 frames/sec. at maximum number of pixels) functions so you won’t miss the target scene, and (3) the easy-to-use AF functions Pre-AF and Continuous AF.

New scene modes such as “high-contrast B&W mode” and “miniaturize mode” have been added to stimulate shooting creativity, and various CX1 model functions have received enhancements, such as the addition of face recognition to easy shooting mode and the addition of an AUTO option for automatically defining the range expansion effect in dynamic range double shot mode.

With its expanded range of functions for the relaxed enjoyment of photography, the CX2 represents the further evolution of the compact digital camera as “A tool you will want to use every day.”

Ricoh CX2

Main features of the new CX2

1. With a 10.7x optical zoom lens (28-300 mm) in a compact body only 29.4 mm thick, the CX2 shoots freely all the way from wide-angle to telephoto.
   - Ricoh’s original retracting lens system made it possible to fit the newly developed high magnification 10.7x optical wide-angle zoom lens in a 29.4 mm body that is both easy to carry and easy to operate.
   - With 28 mm wide-angle to 300 mm telephoto coverage, this high magnification zoom lens can handle a wide range of shooting situations, including powerful telephoto shots as well as wide-angle shooting of both expansive landscapes and interior scenes with limited – The zoom function can be switched to high-speed zoom by continuing to turn the zoom lever.
2. More advanced high-speed continuous shooting functions enable you to get the shot you want.
   - With the enhanced continuous shooting mode, it is possible to do high-speed continuous shooting at approximately 5 frames/second for still images with the maximum number of pixels.
   * Continuous shooting speed will vary depending on shooting conditions, card type, card condition, etc.
   - For the M-continuous plus shooting function, which saves consecutive images shot before the finger is removed from the shutter release button, a mode has been added that makes it possible to shoot at the maximum number of pixels. To fit the scene being photographed, you can select from two modes: M-Continuous Plus (9M) for 15 images (5 frames/sec.) taken in as little as three seconds and M-Continuous Plus (2M) for 30 images (30 frames/sec.) taken in about one second.
   * M-Continuous Plus (9M) image size is fixed at N3456 (9M).
   * M-Continuous Plus (2M) image size is fixed at N1728 (2M).
   * The consecutively shot images are recorded as a single MP file (a file format with multiple still images in a single file).
   - With ultra-high-speed continuous shooting, the CX2 shoots 120 images (120 frames/sec.) during an interval of about one second after the shutter release button is pushed, or 120 images (60 frames/sec.) during an interval of about two seconds.
   * Image size is fixed at N640 (VGA).
   * The consecutively shot images are recorded as a single MP file (a file format with multiple still images in a single file).
3. High image quality from Smooth Imaging Engine IV and a high-resolution CMOS sensor.
   - The CX2 has the image processing engine Smooth Imaging Engine IV and a high-speed image processing CMOS sensor. Together they can shoot high-quality images with high resolution and low noise.
   - Residing on a customized circuit of the image processing engine, the pixel output interpolation algorithm reduces whiteout in high-contrast situations, thereby recreating beauty as seen.
   - Dynamic range double shot mode makes it possible to record images with an almost naked-eye impression; it has a new AUTO option where the camera automatically defines the optimal exposure difference. Now it is even easier to enjoy the benefits of dynamic range expansion of up to 12EV.
   - Multi-pattern auto white balance makes it possible to recreate natural as-seen colors even in people-photography scenes that were difficult to shoot with past auto white balance functions, such as scenes with both shadow and sunlight and scenes mixing flash and natural light (or fluorescent light, etc.).
4. New modes to stimulate creative photography.
   - As the name implies, “high-contrast B&W mode” shoots images with higher contrast than normal black & white mode. This makes it possible to record images with a grainy feel such as that created by using ultra-high-sensitivity film in a film camera or by push processing film at the development stage.
   - The new “miniaturize mode” shoots scenes with the top and bottom areas of the image blurred. This makes it possible to shoot actual scenes but record images that recreate the impression given when photographing miniatures.
   - The new “manner mode” enables you to turn off the flash, the AF auxiliary light, and operation sounds without changing the camera settings. This is convenient when shooting in museums and other public buildings.
5. Easy shooting mode which can be enjoyed by a simple operation now has a function for automatic face recognition.
   - When faces are detected during shooting, the CX2 shoots the image with the focus, exposure, and white balance optimized for the faces. Compared to the previous model, there have been increases in recognition speed and number of faces detectable.
   * A maximum of eight subject faces can now be detected.
   - When shooting subjects up close, the camera automatically switches to macro mode so macro photography can now be enjoyed without the inconvenience of having to switch modes.
6. Pre-AF and Continuous AF functions quickly and accurately focus on the subject.
   - With Pre-AF, the camera automatically adjusts the focus even when the shutter release button is not half-pressed. Quick shooting is possible since the focus is adjusted in response to subject movement.
   - With Continuous AF, if subject movement is detected while the shutter release button is half-pressed, the camera automatically adjusts the focus to match the subject movement.
7. High-definition 3.0-inch 920,000-dot VGA LCD monitor.
   - The large, high-resolution LCD monitor has a wide viewing angle and high contrast. The screen has a fluorine coat to prevent soiling, a hard coat to prevent scratches, and an anti-reflection coat to give excellent visibility even outdoors in bright sunshine.
   - With sRGB comparison of 100% for color reproduction range, the monitor vividly reproduces image colors.
8. A wide range of functions inspired by the “A tool you will want to use every day” concept.
   - With the macro photography functions you can get as close to the subject as 1 cm for wide-angle* and 28 cm for telephoto. *Equivalent to 31 mm focal length for 35 mm cameras.
   - A comfortable and easy-to-hold grip shape.
   - Electronic level utilizing an acceleration sensor.
   - Image sensor shift blur reduction function to reduce hand-motion blurring.
   - Three grid guides useful for framing images while shooting.
   - Image flag function to enable the quick display of specific images from among those in the camera. The maximum number of flags has been increased from 3 to 20.

CX2 Options

• Rechargeable battery DB-70
• Battery charger BJ-7
• Soft case (black) SC-90BK
• Soft case (brown) SC-90BN
• Neck strap ST-2
• Cable switch CA-1
• AC adapter AC-4g

* All of the focal lengths in this release are converted to the equivalent values for a 35 mm film camera.
* The “dynamic range” of a digital camera is range of light intensity that the camera is able to process.
* The term “MP file” used in this document refers to “Extended MP files” conforming to the “multi-picture format” standardized by the CIPA. (The file extension is MPO.)
With MP file images recorded by the CX2, a selected frame can be extracted and saved as an individual JPEG image within the camera.

Related Links:
- Ricoh CX2 Technical Specifications

Ricoh Caplio CX1

TrustedReviews has posted their review of the Ricoh Caplio CX1 (available from Amazon UK), “a very accomplished camera [with] … superb image quality“with 9.29MP resolution, Sensor-shift Image Stabilization, 7.1x wide-angle optical zoom (28-200mm equiv.), 3.0-in. high resolution (920,000 dots) LCD, Dynamic Range Double Shot mode, Brightness and Contrast Level Compensation, Easy Shooting mode, Scene Modes, Electronic Level, Continuous Shooting 4fps, and Movie 640×480 @ 30fps.

[ Read the Ricoh CX1 Review at: TrustedReviews ]