Epson R-D1x launched!

There were rumours about a successor to the defunct Epson R-D1/R-D1s. But nothing concrete.

Then out of the blue.....



The new Epson R-D1x!

Epson has announced a new version of the R-D1 rangefinder on its Japanese website on 27 Feb 2009. The new R-D1x model is a minor upgrade from the R-D1s. It still maintains most of the features of the previous camera including a 6Mp APS-C sensor. Upgraded features includes:

1. A larger 2.5" fix position LCD screen
2. Support for the higher-capacity SD-HC card format (up to 32GB)
3. Improved shutter release button
4. Removable handgrip accessory (marketed together as R-D1xG)

The swivel LCD screen has been replaced by a fix position LCD screen. Battery (EPALB1) and leather case from Epson R-D1/R-D1s remains compatible with R-D1x.

Epson will retail the new rangefinder from 09 April 2009 in Japan, at a price to be confirmed.

After the initial euphoria, it seems like Epson basically took the old camera and slap on a bigger screen. The small screen on the R-D1 will definitely not find favor with consumers used to the current large screen offerings. Other than that, a minor software upgrade to take bigger capacity SD cards. However, there is reason to suspect that R-D1x's battery life remains as miserable as it's predecessor. Same old 6 megapixel APS-C size (1.53X) sensor too.

All in all, an excuses of a minor upgrade rebranded as a new product. Perhaps to clear inventory of old parts? Nevertheless, it's still nice to know the cult camera is not dead and there is an alternative to the lemon they call Leica M8.

Cheers,