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10 July 2017
Leica has launched the TL2, a new TL System camera featuring ia new sensor, 4K video, increased autofocus speed, ease of handling and flexibility, the company said.
The new sensor, developed specifically for this camera, works in tandem with the Maestro II image processor to deliver higher dynamic range, excellent contrast and color definition, along with exceptional sharpness and fine details.
The image processor enables the camera to find focus in about 165 milliseconds, three times faster than the previous model, shortens start-up times and increases the speed of the camera's continuous burst function.
The electronically controlled shutter is silent at speeds up to 1/40,000 second while the mechanical shutter can achieve a continuous burst rate of 7 frames per second.
The camera's various video recording modes, which include 4K, make the TL2 a formidable tool for video capture as well.
The TL2 also features significantly increased touchscreen fluidity and responsiveness thanks to a bright and clearly laid-out 3.7-inch LCD touchscreen.
HIGHLIGHTS
Highlights of the TL2 include:
- 24.2-Mp APS-C CMOS Sensor
- Leica Maestro II image processor
- UHD 4K30 and Full HD 1080p60 video
- Up to 20 fps
- ISO 50,000
- 3.7-inch 1.3m-dot touchscreen LCD monitor
- 49-point contrast-detect AF system
- Electronic shutter function to 1/40,000s
- MyCamera menu with faster touch controls
- 32-GB memory and UHS-II SD card slot
- Integrated WiFi and USB 3.0 Type-C Port
SPECIFICATIONS
Specifications for the TL2 include:
SPECIFICATIONS Sensor 24-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
3:2 aspect ratioLens Mount Leica L-Mount
Leica M/R lenses with Leica M-Adapter L/R-Adapter LStorage SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards
UHS II-standard is supported
32-GB internal memoryMonitor 3.7-inch TFT LCD with 1.3 million pixels Shutter 30 seconds to 1/40,000 second
Mechanical shutter to 1/4,000 secondFrame Rate Approx. 7 fps with mechanical shutter
20 fps with electronic shutter
29 pictures at full speedISO Auto, 100 to 50,000 Autofocus Yes, contrast-based Flash +3 EV to -3 EV in 1/3 increments
1/180 second maximum flash syncMovie 3840 x 2160 p (4K) 30fps
920 x 1080 p (FHD) 60 fps
1280 x 720 p (HD) fps
1280 x 720 p (HD) 120 fps (SLOMO)
MP4 to 29 minutes or 4-GBConnectivity WiFi
Micro (type D) HDMI port, HDMI 1.4b standard supported
USB type C port, USB 3.0 Super Speed standard supported
Battery charging via USB connectionPower BP-DC13 lithium ion battery
7.2 volts, 985 mAh
CIPA standard: approx. 250 picturesDimensions 5.26 x 2.71 x 1.29 inches Weight 13.97 oz. PRICE, AVAILABILITY
Leica said the $1,950 TL2 will be available in black or silver from Leica stores, boutiques and selected dealers starting today. Adorama is accepting orders now for either the black or silver models. B&H is also accepting orders now for either the black or silver models.
Leica Camera Unveils the Evolution of the TL-System with the Leica TL2
Perfected features and persuasive performance meet nuanced design in this new generation
Leica Camera launches today the latest in its TL-System: the Leica TL2. An evolution and refinement of its predecessors the TL and T, the new Leica TL2 embraces increased speed, ease of handling and flexibility and leads the pioneering camera system into a new generation with additional innovations and new design aspects. With the TL2, photographers are able to easily capture life's most valuable moments and experiences with precision and accuracy, thanks to these advanced features.
Brilliant still pictures and video footage
At first shot, photographers will notice the refinement of the TL2. A new sensor, developed specifically for this camera and high-performance image processor work in tandem to guarantee outstanding picture quality with higher dynamic range, excellent contrast and color definition, along with exceptional sharpness and the finest resolution of details. Even the smallest components stand out, allowing users to shoot any subject and make the photos their own. The Leica TL2 impresses similarly with its video capabilities. The camera's various video recording modes, up to 4K resolution, make the TL2 a formidable tool for video capture as well.
Quiet and quick
One of the highlights of the Leica TL2 is its enormously improved autofocus speed and accuracy. For instance, the camera focuses sharply on subjects in around 165 milliseconds (CIPA standard; Leica standard zoom lens at its wide-angle setting), which is up to three times faster than the previous model. The new Leica Maestro II series image processor not only plays a significant role in its faster autofocus and shortened start-up times, but also boosts the speed of the camera's continuous burst function. Another new development is an electronically controlled shutter feature that enables silent exposures at shutter speeds up to 1/40,000s. The mechanical shutter of the TL2 can achieve a continuous burst rate of 7 frames per second. Now with this added electronic shutter capability, the camera can reach a maximum of 20 frames per second.
Connectivity with and without a cable
Photos and videos can be conveniently transferred by wireless connection to smartphones, tablets and desktop PCs thanks to the integrated WiFi module of the Leica TL2, which also allows for mobile hotspot setup and easy sharing via email and social media. Data can also be transferred lightning-fast by a wired connection, with the camera's integrated HDMI 1.4 and USB Type C 3.0 ports. The USB-C port also enables recharging of the Leica TL2 without a battery charger -- for example from a laptop computer or an external power bank.
With the Leica TL App, available for both iOS and Android devices, smartphones or tablets are transformed into remote electronic viewfinders and offer remote control of various exposure-relevant parameters such as the shutter speed and aperture. The Leica TL App also makes it much easier to capture photos and video from unusual angles, with a self-timer and longer shutter speeds.
Modern, intuitive and versatile controls
Leica's commitment to eliminating distractions and focusing on the essentials is showcased in the TL2 camera controls. The MyCamera menu and user interface groups icons according to related functions and thus creates a seamless user experience. Photographers will notice that this function makes handling easier and more intuitive than ever while on the go. The menu can be further personalized to meet individual preferences and particular needs, meaning that the photographer always has fast access to all frequently used features and pre-sets.
Furthermore, as a continuation of Leica's commitment, the TL2 features significantly increased touchscreen fluidity and responsiveness, to make using the camera even faster and more enjoyable. At the heart of this, a bright and clearly laid-out 3.7" LCD touchscreen display enables both composition and reliable and convenient assessment of subjects before and after exposure. The only other controls are four ergonomically positioned physical elements that are intuitive in their operation.
The best lenses in its class
The comprehensive portfolio of lenses in the Leica TL-System offers an ideal range of focal lengths for all situations and types of photography. The system currently comprises of six lenses -- three prime lenses and three zoom lenses -- that meet the needs of every photographic situation. The two fast prime lenses, the Leica Summicron-TL 23mm f2 ASPH. and the Summilux-TL 35mm f1.4 ASPH., are classic focal lengths for reportage photography and the APO-Macro-Elmarit-TL 60mm f2.8 ASPH. complements them ideally as a lens for finely detailed close-up photography and portraits. The three compact zoom lenses, the Leica Super-Vario-Elmar-TL 11 -- 23mm f3.5 -- 4.5 ASPH., Vario-Elmar-TL 18 -- 56mm f3.5 -- 5.6 ASPH. and APO-Vario-Elmar-TL 55 -- 135mm f3.5 -- 4.5 ASPH. cover an entire range of focal lengths equivalent to 17 to 200mm (equiv. in 35mm format) and deliver exposures with rich contrast and sharpness from corner to corner of each frame.
Developed by optical design specialists in Wetzlar, Germany, all Leica TL-Lenses offer the exceptional imaging performance and iconic "Leica look" for which Leica lenses are famed. The combination of optical and precision engineering and use of the finest materials in their construction ensures their constant quality and reliability in use.
Sustainability guaranteed by cross-system compatibility
A major nuance and advantage of the TL2 -- and a demonstration of Leica's fundamental principles of cross-system compatibility and sustainability -- is its compatibility across the Leica lens portfolio. The camera features an L-Bayonet mount, which allows it to fit seamlessly with all TL and SL lenses without an adapter. Should users choose to use lenses within the M or R systems, Leica has also created new adapters that make this possible, as well. This opens up the camera to an exciting range of lenses across Leica's product portfolio -- a veritable playground of lenses available to the user.
Signature design refined, in two color options
The TL2 camera design is a refinement of the hallmark compact body introduced by the original TL. Each camera body is precisely honed from a single block of aluminium, carefully crafted in Leica's factory in Germany. For the TL2, Leica has added an ergonomically pleasing chamfered edge with physical touch and ease of use in mind, which means that photographers can enjoy prolonged comfort when out shooting.
The Leica TL2 will be offered in a choice of two different colors: silver and black. Functional camera accessories, such as high-quality protectors in Nappa leather, that stay on the camera when changing the battery and color-coordinated carrying straps in stone-gray, black, red, yellow and cemento, are ideal complements to the TL system portfolio for both protection and exhibiting a user's personal flair.
Availability
The Leica TL2 will be available from Leica stores, boutiques and selected dealers starting July 10.