Leica M9: the world's smallest full-frame system camera

Leica revealed, today, the M9 –  a full-frame digital rangefinder camera with a Kodak-developed CCD sensor.  The 24 x 36mm, 18 megapixel sensor features improved offset microlenses to optimize performance at the edges of the frame along with a sensor cover with improved filtering of infrared light so lens-mounted IR filters are no longer needed.

Featuring the Leica viewfinder / rangefinder system, the camera’s high-resolution, full-format image sensor fully exploits the performance of the complete Leica M system lenses. The one-piece full-metal housing is made of a high-strength magnesium alloy, combined with a solid brass top and bottom plate that provides perfect protection for the camera in all photographic situations.

Some of the camera’s cool new features include:

• External (rather than accessed via a menu) ISO adjustment button
• Microprocessor-controlled, particularly silent, metal-leaf, focal-plane shutter that enables shutter speeds of up to 1/4000 seconds.
• A simple, clearly laid-out and intuitive menu system that concentrates purely on the essentials

See it for yourself at Vistek Toronto, this Friday (Sept. 11) at 11am. The camera’s official unveiling will take place along with the launch of the Leica S2 at a special Vistek-only FREE seminar.