September 28, 2010: Ricoh announced the release of GR LENS A12 28mm F2.5, a fourth camera unit for the GXR interchangeable unit system, and its second to incorporate an APS-C size CMOS sensor, at Photokina last week.
The 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. In a unique design approach, the lens, image sensor and image processing engine are integrated into the camera units so the body itself does not contain an image sensor.
The GR LENS A12 28mm camera unit brings together a newly developed 28mm wide-angle fixed focal length GR lens, an APS-C size CMOS sensor, and Ricoh’s GR Engine III image processing engine to offer photographers the superior image quality and advanced manual control of a SLR, with the size and handling of a compact.
Faster focussing speeds are a key strength of the new camera unit. In combination with the bright f2.5 lens, a new drive mode has increased autofocus speed even in dark scenes, while an innovative Pre-AF function enables the camera to adjust focus to match the movement of a subject.
The GR LENS A12 28mm camera unit also utilises a ‘full press snap’ function whereby focus is automatically locked on subjects at a distance predetermined by the photographer, without the need for a half-press.
Designed to enable image creation that more accurately reflects the intent of the photographer, the new GR LENS camera unit offers Program Shift, Aperture Priority AE and Shutter Priority AE modes, as well as the ability to shoot in RAW. Providing further control, its manual focus ring allows for precise focus adjustments, even after automatic focussing.
Other key features and benefits of the GR LENS A12 28mm F2.5 camera unit:
– The new 28mm equivalent GR lens has a 6-group, 9-element configuration. Incorporating two aspherical lenses, one special low-dispersion lens, and multiple high-refraction-ratio lenses for strong resolution and imaging power to the edge of the frame;
– The use of a configuration of nine rounded aperture blades enables the photographer to enjoy beautiful bokeh as well as precise aperture settings;
– Multi-pattern auto white balance for superior performance in scenes with both shadow and sunlight and scenes mixing flash and natural light (or fluorescent light, etc.);
– ISO3200 facilitates shooting in low light conditions;
– An electronic level utilising an acceleration sensor;
– 1280 × 720 pixel HD movie mode.
The GR LENS A12 28mm F2.5 GXR camera unit will be available in Australia from mid-October. Local pricing is yet to be announced.
Four interchangeable camera units are now available for the GXR:
1. GR LENS A12 50mm F2.5 MACRO – announced November 2009
2. RICOH LENS S10 24-72mm F2.5-4.4 VC – announced November 2009
3. RICOH LENS P10 28-300 mm F3.5-5.6 VC – announced May 2010
4. GR LENS A12 28mm F2.5 – announced September 2010
For customer enquiries contact Ricoh’s Australian distributor, Tasco on 02 9938 3244 or visit www.ricohcameras.com.au
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