Orlando, Fla. — Panasonic launched its first digital SLR at the PMA show, here, today.
The 7-megapixel Lumix DMC-L1, developed in conjunction with Olympus, features several technologies co-developed by the two companies, including the live-view LCD technology first introduced on Olympus’ recent E-330 d-SLR.
The L1 also features Olympus’ supersonic wave filter for dislodging dust that can accumulate on the image sensor when changing lenses.
Like the E-330, the L1 offers a live-view on its 2.5-inch LCD through the incorporation of a 7.5-megapixel “live MOS” sensor and a mirror-up mechanism. It also features the third generation of Panasonic’s Venus Engine LSI for reducing power consumption and digital noise.
The L1 will offer a shutter speed dial on the camera body and an aperture ring on the lens barrel. It accepts SD memory.
Debuting alongside the L1 is a new Leica D Vario-Elmarit lens (14-50mm) based on the 4/3 system. The lens features Panasonic’s MEGA Optical Image Stabilization. The 4/3 system was developed to create an “all digital” SLR system with lenses designed to match the dimensions of a digital sensor. Legacy film lenses on competing d-SLR systems were designed for the dimensions of film.
Panasonic’s new SLR will also be compatible with Olympus’ line of Zuiko lenses.
