Ricoh just announced a new GR IIIx camera with a new 26.1mm GR lens (40mm equivalent, the previous GRIII version had a 28mm lens equivalent).
US pre-orders should be open soon at Adorama, B&H, and Amazon. UK pre-orders: Park Cameras | WEX Photo.
Here are the details:
The RICOH GR IIIx has been developed in response to user requests for a new GR-series camera that will add a new perspective to the highly acclaimed RICOH GR III. The GR III was released in March 2019, featuring a 28mm wide-angle lens and designed to further enhance the essential values of the GR-series: optimizing image quality, snapshot capabilities and portability. The newly designed 26.1mm GR lens provides a 40mm angle of view in the 35mm format, close to the photographer’s own effective field of view. Depending on the way the lens is used, this versatile angle of view can create different image renditions: you can capture an image similar to those taken at a 30mm semi-wide angle, or create a completely different visual expression as if taken at a 50mm standard angle. The camera also provides a range of new and upgraded post-shooting functions to edit captured images to the photographer’s preference.
Imaging performance without compromise
The RICOH GR IIIx is equipped with the newly designed 26.1mm GR lens, provides a 40mm angle of view in the 35mm format, close to the photographer’s own effective field of view. Depending on the way the lens is used, this versatile angle of view can create different image renditions: you can capture an image similar to those taken at a 30mm semi-wide angle, or create a completely different visual expression as if taken at a 50mm standard angle. The camera also provides a range of new and upgraded post-shooting functions to edit captured images to the photographer’s preference. It is also designed to further enhance the essential values of the GR-series: optimizing image quality, snapshot capabilities and portability.
The new GR lens achieves sharp imaging with high resolution and high contrast
The GR lens has been imbued with our unique optical technology that aims to always provide high image quality. The GR III uses a slim optical system consisting of 6 elements 4 groups with a focal length of 18.3 mm (approx. 28 mm in 35 mm equivalent focal length) and aperture of F2.8. The GR IIIx uses a newly developed optical system consisting of 7 elements 5 groups with a new focal length of 26.1 mm (approx. 40 mm in 35 mm equivalent focal length). High-refractive index low-dispersion glass lenses and aspherical high-precision molded glass lenses are optimally placed in the lens construction according to each model’s optical system to suppress optical distortion and chromatic aberration to the absolute limit, delivering a high level of sharpness. This results in images that are sharp and clear across the entire frame even from the full aperture setting.
The detailed descriptive power of the 24.2 M large APS-C format image sensor
GR III/GR IIIx is equipped with a high-resolution, wide dynamic range APS-C format CMOS image sensor (approx. 24.24 effective megapixels). High resolution sensor which can handle a large size print and an anti-aliasing (AA) filterless construction that utilizes the characteristics of the high-resolution lens for high-definition detail reproduction. Both the image sensor and lens are also optimized for the best possible image quality.
Advanced image processing and responsiveness. Meet the latest GR ENGINE 6
The imaging processor on GR III/GR IIIx is the latest GR ENGINE 6. It elevates the essential high image quality performance of the GR for a greater level of detail. Faster processing makes the combination of high resolution sensor and multi-tone 14-bit RAW possible. This also contributes to improved responsiveness and functionality for autofocus and movie.
Shooting at ISO 102400 is possible with our original signal processing technology
A high-performance processor “Accelerator Unit” is adopted on GR III/GR IIIx as a powerful way to support high image quality. The signal output by the image sensor is sent to the image processor after being optimally handled. This reduces noise, delivering superb resolution and color reproduction across the entire sensitivity range. It also makes it possible to shoot at ISO 102400.
3-axis, 4-step Shake Reduction for high image quality across a wide shooting range
Camera shake is reduced for crisp images even when taking split-second snapshots. Shake Reduction(SR) is installed while making the body size of GR III/GR IIIx compact. It minimizes the shake on three axes, including yaw, pitch and roll. Compensation effects deliver as many as 4 steps of shutter speed*. * Measured in conformity with CIPA standards.
AA filter simulator for reducing false colors and moiré thanks to Shake Reduction mechanism
The effects of the optical anti-aliasing (AA) filter are obtained with Shake Reduction(SR). Moving the image sensor slightly during the exposure suppresses false colors and moiré. You can choose whether to prioritize resolution or reducing false colors and moiré depending on your subject. Choose [High] or [Low] for effect settings.
A compact body and functional design packed with high performance
The GR III/GR IIIx was developed focusing on keeping the body size compact while including a high level of functionality. The model is one-size smaller than that of the GR II and about the same size of GR DIGITAL IV with a 1/1.7 inch image sensor. A minimalist design was pursued to achieve a tool with portability and expression in mind. The button and dial layout is fully considered to allow for comfortable, single-handed operation.
For additional information visit the official Ricoh website. The press release can be found here.
