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Leica S (Typ 007) Mirrorless Camera Review

Jeffrey

September 26, 2023

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The Leica S (Typ 007) is a medium format DSLR with high-resolution photo and video recording capabilities that is unmatched in the medium format market. It offers performance and versatility that are unparalleled in the medium format world.

This camera, which is built around a 37.5MP 30 x 45mm CMOS sensor and the Maestro II image processor, is noteworthy for its ability to generate images with exceptional sharpness, clarity, and dynamic range. Additionally, the absence of an optical low-pass filter from the sensor’s architecture allows for increased detail and resolution, which works well with the optimized Leica S lenses.

Furthermore, on-sensor microlenses work together to generate uniform and equal light dispersion, resulting in edge-to-edge sharpness and lighting, as well as a high degree of overall clarity and clarity. The S is capable of more than just superior still picture recording; it can also record 4K video files in addition to full HD video files, and it has a number of choices for both audio and video recording.

A flexible imaging device that makes full use of its huge sensor, the S (Typ 007) is designed to give the highest level of quality to both photographers and videographers.

As a result of the combination of the sensor and processing power of the camera, it is possible to achieve maximum sensitivity of ISO 12500 as well as the capacity to record up to 32 consecutive DNG files at a rate of 3.5 frames per second.

Using a central cross-type phase detecting point, a predictive autofocus system can aid to maintain critical focus in a range of illumination situations. Additionally, when working in live view, focus peaking is a vital tool for guaranteeing image clarity when using manual focus techniques to get the desired result.

The Leica S’s excellent photographic capabilities are complemented by a similarly refined body design, which has a minimalist construction that places emphasis on the most important shooting controls.

A big, 3.0″ 921.6k-dot LCD panel provides a clear way of reviewing images and navigating menus, while the huge, 0.87x-magnification pentaprism viewfinder provides a brilliant tool for composition and picture evaluation. The system, including the sequence of interface ports and lens mount, is protected from dust and moisture by a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body design.

Additionally, built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allows for remote camera operation as well as wireless file transmission to mobile devices, and a GPS module allows for the recording of position information into the EXIF data of image files, which is useful for geotagging.

Sensor with Leica Pro Format CMOS Technology

A big 37.5MP 45 x 30mm CMOS sensor with a sensitivity range of ISO 100-12500 and a dynamic range of roughly 15 stops offers really high-resolution images with a dynamic range of approximately 15 stops. The huge size of the sensor contributes to the production of images with exceptional sharpness and clarity, as well as smooth tonal and color gradations.

Additionally, due to the sensor’s architecture, it is not necessary to use a standard optical low-pass filter, resulting in even higher picture clarity and resolution than previously possible. The architecture of the sensor includes on-chip microlenses, which enable equal light dispersion and sharpness from edge to edge throughout the sensor’s whole surface.

Performance that is both quick and efficient

With the addition of a highly efficient Maestro II image processor and a 2GB buffer, the image sensor’s capabilities are further enhanced, allowing for the capture of up to 32 consecutive 37.5MP DNG lossless compressed files at a continuous shooting rate of 3.5 frames per second.

When shooting in the JPEG format, the total number of consecutive photographs captured is solely limited by the capacity of the memory card used to save the images. Additionally, the design of the focal plane shutter has been improved and tested to ensure that it can operate for at least 150,000 cycles.

Focusing is improved by the use of a single cross-type phase-detection sensor in a predictive autofocus mode, which allows the camera to better track moving targets.

Recording movies in 4K and full HD resolutions

The S (Typ 007) is capable of recording 4K video (4096 x 2160) within a Super 35-sized section of the sensor, as well as full HD 1080p video using the whole sensor surface. There are frame rates available in full HD that go up to 30p, and a frame rate of 24 fps can be used while capturing 4K video.

Both recording modes allow for human control of the exposure and audio settings, in addition to automatic control. An Audio-Adapter S may be used to record timecode for use with multiple camera configurations.

Timecode can be recorded either internally or externally, depending on the situation. Additionally, when recording, focus peaking and a histogram with exposure clipping display may be observed, which helps improve the accuracy of focus and exposure precision.

Uncompressed video may also be recorded to an optional external recorder with 4:2:2 color sampling through the HDMI Type C interface, which is likewise supported by the HDMI Type A interface.

A 3.5mm audio connection has been included in the camera’s design, which may be used in conjunction with the optional Audio-Adapter S to enhance the recording capabilities.

Camera Design

Imaging System Housing The imaging system is housed in a rugged magnesium alloy housing that has been treated to repel dust and water and has an anti-slip rubberized cover to provide both durability and refinement in operation.

To watch and evaluate images in real-time, a 3.0″ 921.6k-dot LCD monitor is mounted on the back of the device. It is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass to provide additional protection and improved viewing quality. Alternatively, an eye-level pentaprism viewfinder with a 0.87x magnification and the ability to accept alternative interchangeable focusing screens is also available to meet your specific shooting requirements.

A dual-axis spirit level may also be examined from within the finder, ensuring that horizons and verticals are consistently level and plumb.

The rear of the camera is likewise laid out in an easy manner, allowing for faster adjustment of the camera’s settings with the use of a joystick-based control technique. A flash sync port, as well as a hot shoe, is provided for external flash support, and a contact bar at the base of the camera is designed to take an optional Multifunctional Hand Grip S for improved grip when shooting in the vertical configuration.

Designing for Connectivity and Interaction

Integrated Wi-Fi networking allows for the use of mobile devices for remote camera operation and wireless picture transmission via the specialized app, which is available for download from the Google Play Store. In addition to this, a GPS module has been included in the body’s design to allow for in-camera geotagging of data, which can then be plotted on an interactive map.

Providing advantages for the in-camera recording of imagery, dual memory card slots take one SD-type memory card and one CompactFlash-type memory card, allowing for overflow recording or in-camera segmentation of file types to be performed.

In addition to the HDMI Type C connector, which is used for recording to external recorders, a USB 3.0 port is provided for quick picture transmission to a computer or for tethered shooting operations.

Japanese, Chinese (both traditional and simplified), Chinese (simplified and traditional), Russian, Korean, and Portuguese are among the languages that are supported.

Leica S (Typ 007) Specs

Imaging

Exposure Control

Still Image Capture

Internal Video Capture

External Video Capture

Interface

Monitor

Viewfinder

Focus

Flash

Environmental

General

Packaging Info