Two superzooms, an ultra compact, a tough/waterproof, and the LX3 successor from Panasonic Lumix

The new Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 skips a number and replaces the much-vaunted LX3

Panasonic Lumix has unveiled its summer collection of new camera models. There is nothing new from the G-Micro (Micro Four Thirds mirror-less interchangeable system or 'hybrid') range, but we do get the long-expected LX3 successor in the LX5. There are also two new superzoom bridge cameras, the FZ45 and the FZ100, the latter sporting an articulating LCD screen. There is the latest in Panasonic's long line in ultra compact cameras in the FX700, and finally we have a new tough/waterproof compact in the FT10. Improved Venus Engine image processing and sensors are among the benefits offered by the new cameras and we have the full details in Panasonic's official press releases for you in the pages following this one.

But for enthusiasts most eyes will be on the LX5. The out-going LX3 is regarded by some as something of a classic with its small size, yet superb 24-60mm (equivalent) Leica-branded zoom lens and brave technical move to eschew very high resolution sensors in order to preserve noise and dynamic range. If there was a criticism of the LX3 it was that its lens didn't reach forward enough for ideal portraiture shooting. The LX5 addresses this with a new 24-90mm (equivalent) Leica branded DC Vario Summicron lens. The increase in focal length at the long end of the zoom range has not sacrificed the LX3's fast f/2 aperture benefit and neither is there a noticeable weight or bulk penalty.

According to Panasonic the LX5 now has a higher sensitivity CCD sensor that further increases dynamic range and low light noise performance. Panasonic has also retained the unique 16:9 sensor format so that wide screen shooting does not require cropping of the top and bottom of the frame. AVCHD Lite video recording is featured, making the most of the CCD sensor format. And as the LX5 uses a CCD sensor instead of a CMOS type, movie fans should be free of the 'video wobble' effect that commonly afflicts CMOS sensors.

Another improvement to the LX design is a 3 inch LCD screen with improved colour rendering. There is also faster auto focusing, and latest generation Venus Engine benefits like Intelligent Resolution introduced with other Lumix models earlier this year. Besides a clip on optical viewfinder, the LX5 is now compatible with the DMW-LVF1 electronic viewfinder originally developed for use with the Lumix DMC-GF1 Micro Four Thirds camera model.

Panasonic is competing head to head with Canon and its G11 compact with the LX5 and it will be fascinating to see how these two compare out in the field.

Read on for more detailed information about the LX5 and all the other models announced by Panasonic today.

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The Panasonic Lumix summer 2010 collection includes the new LX5

DPNow The Panasonic Lumix summer 2010 collection includes the new LX5
H Panasonic Lumix has unveiled its summer collection of new camera models. There is nothing new fr... (more)

Ian Re: The Panasonic Lumix summer 2010 collection includes the new LX5
It's like watching a tennis rally between Canon and Panasonic :) The Canon G9 was better than the ... (more)