Panasonic hints that both new cheaper “entry-level” and more video oriented L-mount cameras are on the roadmap

 

Dpreview had a chat with Panasonic manager Yosuke Yamane. Here is the summary via L-rumors.com:

1) The Trend is “moving towards full-frame mirrorless cameras

2) Explaining the big size of the S1-S1R: “We didn’t want to compromise on features for the sake of body size

3) About the S1-S1R shutter: “Most competitive cameras are guaranteed to 200,000 actuations. Our camera will be tested for more.

4) The S1 and S1R will be the most durable on market: “We are targeting the very highest level of durability in the industry. [The S1/R] are 100% sealed against dust and water, and operate in very low temperatures – even exceeding the limits of the GH5.”

5) About future entry level L-mount cameras: “The first generation will be specialized for professionals but in the future, of course we’re also aiming to attract entry-level users.

6) No APS-C L-mount cameras from Panasonic: “We have our own Micro Four Thirds system and we think that [because of the greater difference in size between full-frame and M43] this is the best balance. We have no plans to develop APS-C products.

7) L-mount lens design is more difficult because: “In the case of M43, we prioritize compactness. But in full-frame we set higher targets, to meet professional specifications.

8) About future video oriented L-mount cameras: “One of our assets is our experience of professional video, over more than 40 years. This is one of the areas where we contribute to the market, so in the future it’s possible that [our L-mount lineup] will expand to include such products

9) About 8K cameras: ” After the Olympics, we will create a new generation of 8K video cameras, which are currently in development.

Summary:

Panasonic entry level Full Frame camera are likely to be developed
Panasonic video oriented S camera is coming too
8K cameras will come AFTER the Olympics

We will have Sony, Nikon, Olympus and Panasonic product announcements in January?

Seems like 2019 could start with quite some exciting new gear:

Sony:
Sony is rumored to launch at least one new camera and new E-mount lenses in mid January. I hope the A7000 is finally coming!

Nikon:
Nikon might launch the new 58mm f/0,95 Z lens. Pray your personal God the price will be much lower than the rumored crazy $6,000.

Olympus:
Olympus will launch the over-leaked (LOL) E-m1X camera and a new 150-400mm MFT lens

Panasonic:
Panasonic might announce the final S1-S1R camera specs.

No info yet about other manufacturers…

Panasonic S1-S1R rumors and specs roundup!

We still know little about the new Panasonic S1 and S1R cameras. The facts we know can be seen on the image on top and below:

But there are also some rumored new specs that might be true:

Panasonic S1-S1R rumors:
Panasonic might announce more S1-S1R specs in January (article here).
Rumored price: $4,500 (article here).
Panasonic S1 and S1R camera might output RAW video? (article here).
List of new S1-S1R features “under consideration” (article here).
The Panasonic 24-105mm and 70-200mm have a constant f/4.0 aperture (article here).
Panasonic will not make an MFT to L-mount adapter (article here).