Ricoh has unveiled the newest model in its GR series of compact wide-angle compacts, the GR Digital IV. The new model features a new imaging engine and hybrid AF system which together cut focusing time to around 0.2 seconds, almost twice as fast as the previous GR Digital III. The camera retains the same fixed 28mm f/1.9 lens as its predecessor though gets a new CCD-shift stabilisation system which, according to Ricoh, allows shutter speeds up to 3.2 stops slower than normal.
While the look and feel of the camera remains mostly the same, it sports a new 3-inch, 1.2-million-dot LCD monitor which includes an electronic level that can detect inclination in the pitch and roll axes.
Other new features include Dynamic Range Compensation, Multi-Pattern Auto White Balance, Interval Composite (for capturing star trails at night) and Multiple Exposure (which makes it possible to shoot up to five overlapping shots and record them in a single image).
“Film” effects now include High Contrast B&W, Cross Process, Positive Film and Bleach Bypass.
The GR Digital IV will be available in Austalian camera stores from mid October 2011 with a recommended retail price of $799. In addition to the black model, Ricoh will release a “collector’s edition” white model.
Ricoh GR Digital IV.
