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I really love the philosophy behind this camera and it’s exciting to see a brand new company bringing a brand new camera into this market which has come to be so dominated by a handful of manufacturers. Looking forward to your review!
I could cry with excitement but the world economy - and two kids at university - means I’ll enjoy your vid vicariously. Solid intro, Mathias. Looking forward to your progress and thoughts.
Mad respect to a camera company focusing solely on build and still image quality. Even more impressive, I really like the idea of stripping or changing features to make the camera more simple to work with, like in the days of the old metal film SLR's. Modern digital cameras have so many features packed into them, seeing a camera that ignores that noise and goes its own path is refreshing. It inspires hope that others may do the same and maybe find better ways to do it too. Another wonderful review, thank you.
Glad to see you are one of the first to review this Mattias. It fell off my radar at some point and I don't recall why. Enjoyable first part, agree with you on simplicity/cleverness of design and supporting a small company passionate about still photography.
I've been wondering about this camera. I will not buy one but it makes me very happy to have this camera on the market. It gives me hope for the industry. It also makes me very happy to have you review this camera. I like your reviews and presentation and I knew you'd get around to doing a review on this at some point. I look forward to seeing more videos about this camera. Enjoy it! Thanks very much Mattias. Dave K
Thanks for explaining. It looks a really interesting concept. I have wondered for quite a while why someone hasn’t come out with a pretty simple camera with a decent sensor. Basically take a 30-40 old rangefinder but bring it up to date. I grew up on film and I find the latest digital cameras have way too many options and just get in the way for me. I’ve been enjoying using some 10-15 year old cameras that by todays standards are very simple. My favourite at the moment is the Ricoh gx100 from 2007. “Only” 10mp but fantastic handling and oodles of character. I’m sure you would like it!! I look forward to seeing the full review of this camera, a bit too pricy for me but I really salute their effort.
There many things one could say about this bit of camera kit, but it has to be said that this is one of the most thoughtful, deliberate and genuinely sexy labors of design and engineering love that I've seen in many, many years.
Love the concept and great to see something new on the market rather than the same old bodies with slightly better eye af each year. I actually think a crop rangefinder alongside a FF is a wonderful way of giving your lenses two lives. Curious to see how well executed this iteration is. The pics look great.
Mattias, you are a bad man. LOL I ordered mine early this morning, open of business in France. 32GB which is plenty. I have a hard time filling a 16GB in an M9 with DNG and JPG at the same time. With WiFi off battery life is fine. Thanks for the nudge. You have always been a valid and reasonable source of camera information. And thanks for the reminder: it is a camera, for taking pictures.
@@gearreallydoesntmatter I have a 2CV. This camera is a perfect fit. It is also a great solution to cameras in 2022: update/upgrade via software/firmware. It is from the tech center of France where great other products are made. The images you have of the fellow photographing a horse just glow. That is what I chase, that glow. No more M8/M9 battery worries, the NP-FW50 is a standard battery size even though Sony developed it. Barth et al gave this some real thought. And I swear they were BS'ing one night in a cafe when one said, "Hey, lets make a cell phone with interchangeable lenses." Voila. A single purpose cell phone, it only takes photos, with interchangeable lenses. Elegant, simple, functional, and great images. Works for me! Thanks, again, for nudging me across the line on this one. You did it on the Q-S1, too. But this is a whole different league.
When I first learned of this camera, I immediately suspected I’d want it. With my M9 feeling like I’m on borrowed time before the sensor eventually succumbs to corrosion, I think this would be a great modern replacement.
@@gearreallydoesntmatter mine was replaced in 2018 before I purchased it. Also, KolariVision now offers a sensor replacement guaranteed to not corrode again. But I don’t know if it’s worth the $1100 to do that vs getting a new, modern body. I do love these CCD colors though.
The moment I first discovered this camera existed, I instantly wanted it. But I love my Fuji XE3 + 23mm f2 too much to replace it. Nonetheless it's an excellent looking product and very exciting to see something new and unique on the market, especially rangefinder competition.
@@trym2121 this is exactly what I was thinking. I'm very interested in a digital rangefinder and leica is impossible, but I'm intrigued to try a full frame camera after shooting Fuji aps-c for 15+ years. I've close to pulling the trigger on a Sigma FP-L due to the size, the images look great and I like that it's different.
@@gearreallydoesntmatter I know it's all relative really, I guess it's more of a 'try something different' reasoning. The images from the FP-L do look really nice... and would be a very different proposition to my x-pro1
There is also a Pixii Camera User Group on Facebook (I know, FB sucks, but the group function is just so practical). There we discuss the camera, firmware, tips&tricks etc. Its not a place to compare it to other cameras. It's mainly for people past that point: facebook.com/groups/668692364396682/
Hey! Really great video about an awesome camera... I'm now very much considering getting one myself... just one question: You mentioned that the sensor outperformed all Leica Ms (without M11), and is also better performing than the Fujis with the same sensor... where did you find the comparison with the Fujis? On DXOMark, it seems like none of the Fuji X-cameras has been tested... I own an X-Pro3, so the comparison with this one would be quite interesting.... Would be great if you could say something on that topic! Thanks a lot again for the video!
From shooting the M8, M240 and Fujis I now know that 1.5x crop would not be a deal breaker. To me workflow would change a lot of things. I love shooting Fuji and doing in-camera RAW processing because I hate the formal data-dump computer image processing home-office time. I already work on a computer all day. I usually just want good filmic palette, shadow/highlight tweaks and output. This is where the Leica process falls flat for me. So that makes me wonder if phone-app could be similar. So much of the Leica tweaks over the years have been small and nuanced. So in-depth will be key. Looking forward to the full review. I totally trust you to call out the things that will be important to me.
I’m a owner of a Pen F. This camera seems to have most of the positive elements I have been looking for including a larger sensor. Advances which are limited by having to follow a company stature which can create compromises.
Wow! It looks very interesting! Oskar Barnak was on to something when he developed the original small format portable 35mm camera. This is all about making pictures. Rangefinder cameras are more about being in the moment, trusting what you see and that makes photography more immediate. This looks like a great camera for staying connected with the moment.
For sure. A rangefinder definitely makes you focus on what's happening and not how your picture will end up. That comes later. And since you can't see it, no point in obsessing over it.
I, too, have the M9, which is currently very happy with a '57 Jupiter 8. But at 33K+ shutter actuations I am nervous about its longevity. And I am an unabashed francophile, having lived in France and Quebec. And I like the not ordinary which is why I have a 2CV. So, if a few dedicated French engineers are making a wonderful camera with WOW! images I am interested. Mattias, a long winded way of saying thank you, again, for great reviews and a broad exposure to cameras.
This looks promising, I thought. So I went to the Pixii website - and my breath was taken away by the €2.5K+ price, depending on installed memory, and that's without VAT or any lens. By the time you've bought a lens as well as a Pixii with a decent memory, you could probably have at least three Fujifilm X100Vs. For some people that might be justified, but not me. Besides, as with any electronic gadget it'll be obsolete before long: standards will change, technology will improve, and so on. So the effective life of a Pixii is what - five years? At best, I'd say. At the end of which it won't be worth very much.
Price is relative, the competition his more expensive, the x100 is not a rangefinder, the Digital Bolex, Ikonoskop etc cost MORE today than when new, the Leica M8 and Epson RD1 are both going up in price and are almost 20 years old. That tech gets "obsolete" is just something people say in forums. In real life its complete BS 95% of the time.
Either that, or it could become a future classic / collectable. Look at the Epson RD1 - People are still going nuts over it. The sensor and unique experience is the main unique selling point for this camera. It's interesting for sure.
That looks SLEEK 🤩 and once again, many of us would love to have in our portfolio images like the ones you have in your review videos 😜💚 I will probably never get my hands on this camera, but it looks lovely
BTW: Love from Korpo, a small island in the Finnish archipelago. When my girlfriend came to the kitchen and listened to the video, she said… that guy is from Sweden 😜✌🏽💚
I LOVE that this tech is now available enough that small companies can produce their own custom cameras! I really wish I could try one of these in person, I love to buy one to support the development, but the price is too high to simply order one from the other side of the world.
I had trouble getting my concentration back on your video about the pixi, because the dials on the RD1 do something pleasant to my brain when I see them swing into position. I must have an analogue brain. After watching that little part of the video several times, I did make it back to the rest of the video and your information on the Pixii and enjoyed it very much.
Thank you for another interesting and entertaining video! Is the Pixii the "dream camera" for which you were clearing the deck that you mentioned in one of your more recent videos?
Your explanation of the range finder reminded me that when I was growing up my dad had a 35mm fixed lens camera that was a range finder. I always thought it was a bit odd to use when he would let me take a picture with it, but he always seemed to be able to quickly get it focused. Thanks for the quick jaunt down memory lane. Great photos by the way.
Well. This was a fun and frustrating video to watch. Fun because this camera seem to tick all the boxes for what I would want in a digital rangefinder. No back screen, minimalist controls, RF focusing, ability to use all my LTM lenses, and what looks like a straight forward menu. Frustrating because I now get the "fun" of hoping I can save enough nickels to buy one while they are still current production. :) I suspect even when the used ones start showing up these will still command a fairly high price. This is the first video of yours I have seen, Mr Burling, and I also liked how you talked about using this camera and what you find important. So I subscribed. Looking forward to your more in depth review! Thank you for showing us this.
Glad you liked my video. Depending on how things works out I also suspect that it will be quite pricy even used simply by being rare. The Digital Bolex is a good example on the video side. Very low volume and extremely polarizing. It now costs more than they did new.
I’ve been excited for this video since you announced you were getting a Pixii! The only downside is that now I want one even more than before! Looking forward to hearing more about it..
My first 35mm camera (1981) was a Yashica Minister III, a rangefinder. Always have a soft spot for them. Great video! Looking forward to the full review.
Thank you for explaining the why. I think so many camera reviewers miss that. It should be judged on its ambition and merits and not in comparison to whatever features other cameras have that this one lacks. Looking forward to the review!
Wow.! Has to be the finest, smartest, sleekest, highest high end enthusiast camera EVER! Maybe when I win the lottery! Or 10 years from now when they’re yesterdays camera! Your videos make cameras look so sexy😂
I see some that want to have the crop factor discussion bellow, I have made a dedicated video about that and think that's a better place to beat such an old dead horse: th-cam.com/video/eAlNy-r9xcs/w-d-xo.html
@@ProbablyOkay I some times take too much joy in pointing out to folks like that that ALL sensors/film sizes are a crop. Usually they are a rectangle cropped from the image circle of whatever lens they are using. As well, when we decide on our subject, we are effectively cropping out of our photograph everything else that isn't in front of the camera. :D
@@josephryan5448 It can continuously send a jpeg to your phone in the background while shooting. I haven't tested it myself other than in this video. But I guess its an option.
Well done FRANCE ! 🇨🇵 It's been a while since a french camera came out, even if the sensor is not french...says something about the dynamism of start-ups.
Take a shot everytime Mattias says, I have a video on this as well! Jokes aside, great video, came across this camera a while back and was wondering when I would see a video on it!
Good video. This camera looks excellent. I like the design. One thing I did not understand is exactly how does the native monochrome mode work. I could not find an explanation on the Pixii website. Does something happen to the sensor or to the Bayer filter? Also, I am curious about how it handles parallax correction in the viewfinder. Do the framelines move according to the distance, or does it shift the view?
Reminds me a lot of an alternative version of the Leica TL2. Absolutely love that camera and put it to a lot of use. I’d imagine this thing would be a blast to use!
@@Kaisolostudio The only one is the Zeiss Distagon 18/4, but it’s very big for a slow 28mm-e lens. The Atoll 17/2.8 is a little bigger. 😢 Pixii needs to put 18mm framelines in the viewfinder and hire Cosina to make a small 18/2.8.
I have just ordered a Pixii. I have far too many cameras but this intrigues me. Considering ordering the Voigtlander 28mm Ultron to go with this (40mm view on the Pixii)
I’ve settled on slightly tighter. A Voigtländer 21mm/4 since it’s so small and comfortable (and has great iQ). I used to use a Zeiss 35mm as my “50” and a Zeiss 50 for longer shots. But have replaced both with a Voigtländer 40mm. While testing the Sigma FP L I feel in love with the 65mm, the 40 gets me very close. It’s also very compact.
Great video, so curious about the next parts :) One question: so due to the APSC I guess the 25 becomes a 42-43, 35 becomes a 52-53, 40 a 60 and 50 a 75? And that's what will actually be indicated by the framelines, right? So there is no way to use a 14mm to get a 26mm equivalent WITH proper framelines in the patch?
You can't use a flash with an electronic shutter. You will have to use an LED (like smartphones). In the video you see a photographer using LED-panels even though he has a DSLR. So there are options when needed. But its not a camera for hard core strobists.
@@gearreallydoesntmatterThanks! For example the Sigma FP camera has also only an electronic shutter and is able to use flash, although rather limited, but possible. I asked pixii for more information also.
I would love an SLR version of this, as in, a digital camera with most of limitations of film. Especially no screen. I love the ideal of the native mono mode too. I just wish it had SD card slots :-) I have a Pentax MX (film camera) and would love a digital version of it, with 90% of it kept the same, just it used a digital sensor. I’d even keep the film winding lever as I love the tactile nature of it ha
Looks like a very intriguing camera. Thanks for the first video! You said, that there are frame lines for 28, 35 and 50mm. Since this is APS-C, the widest frame line gives you a field of view of about 42mm?
Would love to try/own one. The concepts and ideas behind the design are excellent and fresh and forward thinking. There's a lot of cut and paste ideas with all the manufacturers, and it's good to see a company try to be different. I look forward to the full review :)
🙏 this looks like a lot of fun. Thanks for showing this one. Oh and the pictures look great, i would say somewhere in the region of my M8 and my sigma dp1🙏 I am gooing for a little bit off googlin’
I recently have fallen in love with the TTArtisan 28mm f/5.6 for Leica M ... on my analogue CL it delivers beautiful pictures - and selling for just close to 300 € it is kinda affordable too
Such a tempting camera. I just got an X-Pro3 half a year ago and I plan to travel for a view months soon so I am very likely not going to buy one. But still a tempting camera. I really like the internal memory and the ability to upload to a flash drive. Looking forward to your more in depth review. Thanks.
Beautiful perspective as always. And like you, I'm a sucker for unusually designed cameras too. It fits my personality because I actively have created my adult life as against the accepted norm. Initially organically but now after a decade plus, it just feels 100% me and would have loved to translate that into my love for cars and motorcycles but my finances allowed me to do so, to a humble extent, with cameras. If I could just eventually get to a point where i can finally translate that into adopting a cat or a dog, that would be heaven on earth for me but I'm happy now too.
I would love one, but honestly I'm intimidated by the rangefinder element. Nonetheless, a gorgeous group of test photos as always, and a beautifully presented video.
Thank you Mattias, very interesting initial review of this intriguing camera. There seems to be a lot of hate out there for this camera which I can't understand - if its not for you and you truly have understood the concept behind it then fine don't buy it but why the hate? For me I'm finely balanced between buying it as a digital companion to my M-A (127) or waiting to see how things develop. I guess I'm more nervous about the future of the company than with any short comings in the actual camera as the whole concept is that it can be easily upgraded (both hardware/firmware etc). I will be very interested to see how you get on with your new French partner :)
Yeah I can never understand the camera-tribe arguments. Such a waste. Yeah it’s exciting to see how it develops, I will talk about a possible firmware update in my next video :)
@@gearreallydoesntmatter Hi Mattias , I communicated with David at Pixii and decided to buy one ....should be here in the UK in a few weeks. Excited and of course a bit nervous ha ha ....
Wow, cool. As long as you are ready for a rangefinder that isnt like the others you will be fine :) Im working on a video with some pros and cons that should be out in a couple of days. Ive also created a Facebook group for Pixii users: facebook.com/groups/668692364396682/ There is only three of us in it right now but it can grow. Personally Im not a fan on FB but the private group function is pretty nice. The interface is very suitable for sharing tips&tricks as well as images.
@@gearreallydoesntmatter Thanks ,well I like things that are different so I think I will be fine . Current kit bag includes Kiev 5 , Nikon 35Ti , Konica Hexar AF , Nikon S3 2000 and Sigma SD Quattro and Fuji Instax Evo - so I'm not exactly mainstream I guess . The video will be most welcome - look forward to it ! I'm not on FB - have always resisted ( and Twitter ) but will see..... Thanks
My first serious 135 camera was a Leica IIIa, so I know something about film-using cameras of the last century. The first Leica Screw Mount camera that had "framelines in the viewfinder" was a Canon P. This "Leica M3 substitute" worked just fine for decades, as I preferred to save money to buy lenses, film, and daily necessities. (Even in the 1970's, the Leica M-series cameras were premium goods with lenses to match.) Instead of Summicron lenses, Shutterbug Ads offered a 28mm f/2.8 Canon and a 105mm f/2.5 Nikkor. It is interesting that modern/digital cameras can take Leica M lenses. (Picks up a Fujifilm X30) Oh well, life with "trailing edge" technology can be...interesting.
There is some genius usability here. I love and hate that it is aps-c. On the one hand: more forgiving zone focus. On the other: there's less options on the wide end of the M mount.
@@gearreallydoesntmatter Okay, what I really mean is I want the amazing Leica 28mm Elmarit 2.8, and the Voightlander 40mm f1.4 pancake, but to still be a 28mm and 40mm eq. when I put them on. 😂 Honestly, I think the utilitarian design of the Pixii would still convince me to get it over a Leica at the same price. Those features are great. ✌️
This camera looks so cool ! I don't know why i've not heard of it before. I just bought an M10, 3 weeks ago and can you believe the rangefinder broke ? lol had to send it back to germany,,,,
great introduction. looks like a very enjoyable camera to say the least. the 40mm framelines are pretty interesting. but how about the minimal focusing distance, probably the same as on a leica m i would guess?!
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I really love the philosophy behind this camera and it’s exciting to see a brand new company bringing a brand new camera into this market which has come to be so dominated by a handful of manufacturers. Looking forward to your review!
Agreed, its the Digital Bolex of stills :)
the philosophy of planned obsolescence
I could cry with excitement but the world economy - and two kids at university - means I’ll enjoy your vid vicariously. Solid intro, Mathias. Looking forward to your progress and thoughts.
Mad respect to a camera company focusing solely on build and still image quality. Even more impressive, I really like the idea of stripping or changing features to make the camera more simple to work with, like in the days of the old metal film SLR's. Modern digital cameras have so many features packed into them, seeing a camera that ignores that noise and goes its own path is refreshing. It inspires hope that others may do the same and maybe find better ways to do it too. Another wonderful review, thank you.
Agreed. Cameras today are so similar that they might as well merge into one.
Glad to see you are one of the first to review this Mattias. It fell off my radar at some point and I don't recall why. Enjoyable first part, agree with you on simplicity/cleverness of design and supporting a small company passionate about still photography.
I've been wondering about this camera. I will not buy one but it makes me very happy to have this camera on the market. It gives me hope for the industry.
It also makes me very happy to have you review this camera. I like your reviews and presentation and I knew you'd get around to doing a review on this at some point.
I look forward to seeing more videos about this camera. Enjoy it!
Thanks very much Mattias.
Dave K
This camera makes me smile. It hits all the check boxes for the dedicated stills photographer.
Thanks for explaining. It looks a really interesting concept. I have wondered for quite a while why someone hasn’t come out with a pretty simple camera with a decent sensor. Basically take a 30-40 old rangefinder but bring it up to date. I grew up on film and I find the latest digital cameras have way too many options and just get in the way for me.
I’ve been enjoying using some 10-15 year old cameras that by todays standards are very simple. My favourite at the moment is the Ricoh gx100 from 2007. “Only” 10mp but fantastic handling and oodles of character. I’m sure you would like it!!
I look forward to seeing the full review of this camera, a bit too pricy for me but I really salute their effort.
Agree, with you. Try a Canon 5D with 40mm f2.8 for fun. :-)
@@Mike-vd2qt I just picked up this exact combo for nearly nothing, and wow..
It’s on the list don’t worry!! I’m enjoying small compact cameras at the moment but will get an older SLR at some point. The 40mm looks interesting.
There many things one could say about this bit of camera kit, but it has to be said that this is one of the most thoughtful, deliberate and genuinely sexy labors of design and engineering love that I've seen in many, many years.
As a French, I've been following pixii for some time. I loved your video, thank you for this presentation 😀
Love the concept and great to see something new on the market rather than the same old bodies with slightly better eye af each year. I actually think a crop rangefinder alongside a FF is a wonderful way of giving your lenses two lives. Curious to see how well executed this iteration is. The pics look great.
That is a very beautiful camera! WELL DONE Pixii!!
Yup, they nailed the color as well. Depending on the light the grey shifts from blue to green.
Mattias, you are a bad man. LOL I ordered mine early this morning, open of business in France. 32GB which is plenty. I have a hard time filling a 16GB in an M9 with DNG and JPG at the same time. With WiFi off battery life is fine. Thanks for the nudge. You have always been a valid and reasonable source of camera information.
And thanks for the reminder: it is a camera, for taking pictures.
I hope you enjoy it. Always scary to recommend expensive or quirky cameras. And this is both 📸
@@gearreallydoesntmatter I have a 2CV. This camera is a perfect fit. It is also a great solution to cameras in 2022: update/upgrade via software/firmware. It is from the tech center of France where great other products are made. The images you have of the fellow photographing a horse just glow. That is what I chase, that glow. No more M8/M9 battery worries, the NP-FW50 is a standard battery size even though Sony developed it. Barth et al gave this some real thought.
And I swear they were BS'ing one night in a cafe when one said, "Hey, lets make a cell phone with interchangeable lenses." Voila. A single purpose cell phone, it only takes photos, with interchangeable lenses. Elegant, simple, functional, and great images. Works for me!
Thanks, again, for nudging me across the line on this one. You did it on the Q-S1, too. But this is a whole different league.
Where has this product been all my life?! Works like a charm!
When I first learned of this camera, I immediately suspected I’d want it. With my M9 feeling like I’m on borrowed time before the sensor eventually succumbs to corrosion, I think this would be a great modern replacement.
Have you checked the sensor ID? If not you could have one of the newer without knowing :)
@@gearreallydoesntmatter mine was replaced in 2018 before I purchased it. Also, KolariVision now offers a sensor replacement guaranteed to not corrode again. But I don’t know if it’s worth the $1100 to do that vs getting a new, modern body. I do love these CCD colors though.
@@christopherbgriffith if the sensor was replaced then it should be good for the foreseeable future to the best of my knowledge
@@paulanderson24 the first sensor replacement by Leica fails. The second version of the sensors version should be good.
@@christopherbgriffith Then definitely check the sensor ID in the hidden menu. If its the new one you are good and dont have to worry anymore.
The moment I first discovered this camera existed, I instantly wanted it. But I love my Fuji XE3 + 23mm f2 too much to replace it. Nonetheless it's an excellent looking product and very exciting to see something new and unique on the market, especially rangefinder competition.
I reckon If it were to have full frame sensor, you won't be able to resist it. Going from apsc to another apsc isn't really that enticing
@@trym2121 this is exactly what I was thinking. I'm very interested in a digital rangefinder and leica is impossible, but I'm intrigued to try a full frame camera after shooting Fuji aps-c for 15+ years. I've close to pulling the trigger on a Sigma FP-L due to the size, the images look great and I like that it's different.
I’m super exited going from full frame to APSC. Both are cropped so 🤷
@@gearreallydoesntmatter I know it's all relative really, I guess it's more of a 'try something different' reasoning. The images from the FP-L do look really nice... and would be a very different proposition to my x-pro1
New music, beautiful baby and as always an excellent camera review. Thanks.
I was waiting so long for someone to finally review this camera
There is also a Pixii Camera User Group on Facebook (I know, FB sucks, but the group function is just so practical). There we discuss the camera, firmware, tips&tricks etc. Its not a place to compare it to other cameras. It's mainly for people past that point: facebook.com/groups/668692364396682/
Hey! Really great video about an awesome camera... I'm now very much considering getting one myself... just one question: You mentioned that the sensor outperformed all Leica Ms (without M11), and is also better performing than the Fujis with the same sensor... where did you find the comparison with the Fujis? On DXOMark, it seems like none of the Fuji X-cameras has been tested... I own an X-Pro3, so the comparison with this one would be quite interesting.... Would be great if you could say something on that topic! Thanks a lot again for the video!
From shooting the M8, M240 and Fujis I now know that 1.5x crop would not be a deal breaker. To me workflow would change a lot of things. I love shooting Fuji and doing in-camera RAW processing because I hate the formal data-dump computer image processing home-office time. I already work on a computer all day. I usually just want good filmic palette, shadow/highlight tweaks and output. This is where the Leica process falls flat for me. So that makes me wonder if phone-app could be similar.
So much of the Leica tweaks over the years have been small and nuanced. So in-depth will be key. Looking forward to the full review. I totally trust you to call out the things that will be important to me.
I will try :)
I’m a owner of a Pen F. This camera seems to have most of the positive elements I have been looking for including a larger sensor. Advances which are limited by having to follow a company stature which can create compromises.
Wow! It looks very interesting! Oskar Barnak was on to something when he developed the original small format portable 35mm camera. This is all about making pictures. Rangefinder cameras are more about being in the moment, trusting what you see and that makes photography more immediate. This looks like a great camera for staying connected with the moment.
For sure. A rangefinder definitely makes you focus on what's happening and not how your picture will end up. That comes later. And since you can't see it, no point in obsessing over it.
I, too, have the M9, which is currently very happy with a '57 Jupiter 8. But at 33K+ shutter actuations I am nervous about its longevity. And I am an unabashed francophile, having lived in France and Quebec. And I like the not ordinary which is why I have a 2CV. So, if a few dedicated French engineers are making a wonderful camera with WOW! images I am interested. Mattias, a long winded way of saying thank you, again, for great reviews and a broad exposure to cameras.
Plus you can keep any lenses you have.....
@@paulhargreaves1497 Yes.
This looks promising, I thought. So I went to the Pixii website - and my breath was taken away by the €2.5K+ price, depending on installed memory, and that's without VAT or any lens. By the time you've bought a lens as well as a Pixii with a decent memory, you could probably have at least three Fujifilm X100Vs. For some people that might be justified, but not me. Besides, as with any electronic gadget it'll be obsolete before long: standards will change, technology will improve, and so on. So the effective life of a Pixii is what - five years? At best, I'd say. At the end of which it won't be worth very much.
Price is relative, the competition his more expensive, the x100 is not a rangefinder, the Digital Bolex, Ikonoskop etc cost MORE today than when new, the Leica M8 and Epson RD1 are both going up in price and are almost 20 years old.
That tech gets "obsolete" is just something people say in forums. In real life its complete BS 95% of the time.
Either that, or it could become a future classic / collectable. Look at the Epson RD1 - People are still going nuts over it. The sensor and unique experience is the main unique selling point for this camera. It's interesting for sure.
Its pricey yes. But it has a 64bit sensor. Which is unique.
If you are right maybe I'll be able to afford one used one day.
To each their own, acd54
Finally ordered my pixii thanks for all of your videos. Every time I watch your videos I miss your bulldog gun powder I think his name was.
Oh man... this camera looks brilliantly awesome!!
The romance of photography is back !!!
There are a couple of companies keeping it burning. Mint and Lomoghraphy comes to mind.
That looks SLEEK 🤩 and once again, many of us would love to have in our portfolio images like the ones you have in your review videos 😜💚
I will probably never get my hands on this camera, but it looks lovely
BTW: Love from Korpo, a small island in the Finnish archipelago. When my girlfriend came to the kitchen and listened to the video, she said… that guy is from Sweden 😜✌🏽💚
Wow Mattias really made me sad… never knew I needed this 😭😭😭 now I do. Such a beautiful camera.
Nice to still have that feeling again like when the M8 came out (historical, innovative and individually put together by an engineer).
I LOVE that this tech is now available enough that small companies can produce their own custom cameras!
I really wish I could try one of these in person, I love to buy one to support the development, but the price is too high to simply order one from the other side of the world.
Wow I didn’t know something like this existed I’m excited
I had trouble getting my concentration back on your video about the pixi, because the dials on the RD1 do something pleasant to my brain when I see them swing into position. I must have an analogue brain. After watching that little part of the video several times, I did make it back to the rest of the video and your information on the Pixii and enjoyed it very much.
Yeah its crazy that 20 years later no digital camera maker can beat those dials.
Thank you for another interesting and entertaining video! Is the Pixii the "dream camera" for which you were clearing the deck that you mentioned in one of your more recent videos?
No.
Your explanation of the range finder reminded me that when I was growing up my dad had a 35mm fixed lens camera that was a range finder. I always thought it was a bit odd to use when he would let me take a picture with it, but he always seemed to be able to quickly get it focused. Thanks for the quick jaunt down memory lane. Great photos by the way.
Fixed lens rangefinders where a huge thing. If you want to experience it again they start at $10 in flee markets since there are so many of them.
Fantastic. I really like the interface, calm and cool. Very attractive overall and many thanks for reviewing
Well. This was a fun and frustrating video to watch.
Fun because this camera seem to tick all the boxes for what I would want in a digital rangefinder.
No back screen, minimalist controls, RF focusing, ability to use all my LTM lenses, and what looks like a straight forward menu.
Frustrating because I now get the "fun" of hoping I can save enough nickels to buy one while they are still current production. :)
I suspect even when the used ones start showing up these will still command a fairly high price.
This is the first video of yours I have seen, Mr Burling, and I also liked how you talked about using this camera and what you find important. So I subscribed. Looking forward to your more in depth review!
Thank you for showing us this.
Glad you liked my video.
Depending on how things works out I also suspect that it will be quite pricy even used simply by being rare. The Digital Bolex is a good example on the video side. Very low volume and extremely polarizing. It now costs more than they did new.
The one I've been waiting for 🙌🏾
i am always happy to see something new
Very interesting... As always great video. Thanks
I’ve been excited for this video since you announced you were getting a Pixii! The only downside is that now I want one even more than before! Looking forward to hearing more about it..
My first 35mm camera (1981) was a Yashica Minister III, a rangefinder. Always have a soft spot for them. Great video! Looking forward to the full review.
Ministers are my favorites.
Woooow. Just wow. I'm speechless. What a great camera
Thank you for explaining the why. I think so many camera reviewers miss that. It should be judged on its ambition and merits and not in comparison to whatever features other cameras have that this one lacks.
Looking forward to the review!
+++
Rightly said!
Wow.! Has to be the finest, smartest, sleekest, highest high end enthusiast camera EVER! Maybe when I win the lottery! Or 10 years from now when they’re yesterdays camera! Your videos make cameras look so sexy😂
As ever, you prove that gear really doesn’t matter, so buy the coolest cameras. All your pictures look amazing.
I see some that want to have the crop factor discussion bellow, I have made a dedicated video about that and think that's a better place to beat such an old dead horse:
th-cam.com/video/eAlNy-r9xcs/w-d-xo.html
Nothing more insufferable than people who can't get over crop factor :P
There isn't a way to see your photos until you upload correct? Similar to a film camera?
@@ProbablyOkay I some times take too much joy in pointing out to folks like that that ALL sensors/film sizes are a crop. Usually they are a rectangle cropped from the image circle of whatever lens they are using. As well, when we decide on our subject, we are effectively cropping out of our photograph everything else that isn't in front of the camera. :D
@@robbiemer8178 I like pointing out that the Swedish (and German) term for fullframe is "Small/tiny picture". Because its so heavily cropped 😀
@@josephryan5448 It can continuously send a jpeg to your phone in the background while shooting. I haven't tested it myself other than in this video. But I guess its an option.
I think this might be my next M3. Currently owning and X-E3 after many years of analog Leica.
Cool review, fast and interesting!
The colors are better than any Leica I have seen. On top of that there is a real Monochrome mode. It's two in one . Take my money already!
I’m gonna start testing the Mono a bit more in the upcoming weeks. Might dedicate a video to it.
@@gearreallydoesntmatter please do, that would be very interesting to see.
What an amazing camera and review
iykyk. you either hate rangefinders or you love and i LOVE it. you just cant beat the rangefinder focusing system.
Wow this is absolutely amazing! Well done!
Well done FRANCE ! 🇨🇵 It's been a while since a french camera came out, even if the sensor is not french...says something about the dynamism of start-ups.
Yeah it’s cool for sure. I’ve been eyeing a Baltic diver watch for quite some time. Made in the same town as the Pixii.
Puuuuuuumped!! Can't wait for more coverage of this little beauty :)
Thats not fair! Thank you for pointing out this veeeery interesting camera, but I have to explain to my wife now.... 😁
Say you want to go get in in person in France and she can tag along 😎
Take a shot everytime Mattias says, I have a video on this as well! Jokes aside, great video, came across this camera a while back and was wondering when I would see a video on it!
Very nice documentary.... Great work 🍻🍻🍻🍻
Great pictures!!i enjoy your videos even if i dont dream of buying a3000 $camera system!
how was the viewfinder compared to the leica M viewfinders? Bright and easy to see through?
Hi Mattias.
Whish lenses do you use for the pixii ? Are they all with Leica M Mount or converted ?
Ive omsy used Leica-M mounted lenses so far. Mostly Voigtländer with the 40mm as my favorite.
Great overview! Did you switch to an iPhone?! 🙀
That was two years ago :)
Good video. This camera looks excellent. I like the design. One thing I did not understand is exactly how does the native monochrome mode work. I could not find an explanation on the Pixii website. Does something happen to the sensor or to the Bayer filter? Also, I am curious about how it handles parallax correction in the viewfinder. Do the framelines move according to the distance, or does it shift the view?
Reminds me a lot of an alternative version of the Leica TL2. Absolutely love that camera and put it to a lot of use. I’d imagine this thing would be a blast to use!
how did you feel about the viewfinder experience? Was rangefinder comparable in terms of brightness and accuracy to M cameras or voigtlanders?
Mattias, which lens would you choose to shoot 28mm equivalent focal length on the pixii. Looks like a beautiful camera
Look for an 18mm lens
Ive been using a 21mm a lot. Slightly tighter but closer to the viewfinder.
@@Kaisolostudio The only one is the Zeiss Distagon 18/4, but it’s very big for a slow 28mm-e lens. The Atoll 17/2.8 is a little bigger. 😢 Pixii needs to put 18mm framelines in the viewfinder and hire Cosina to make a small 18/2.8.
@@iconindexsymbol oh no!! 😭 I guess the closest mm you can get maybe the 21 Mattias talked about. Too bad it’s not full frame.
@@Kaisolostudio or just go wider with 15mm. If FF you wouldn't want it, banding, jello and at least twice the price.. no thanks.
I have just ordered a Pixii. I have far too many cameras but this intrigues me. Considering ordering the Voigtlander 28mm Ultron to go with this (40mm view on the Pixii)
the size looks interesting too, looks closer to a film leica size than for example the M240
If I was still using digital cameras, this is what I'd want. It looks and sounds ideal.
So since it's an APC-S sensor with a LeicaM mount.. what lenses would you recommend to get the 28mm and 50mm field of view?
I’ve settled on slightly tighter. A Voigtländer 21mm/4 since it’s so small and comfortable (and has great iQ). I used to use a Zeiss 35mm as my “50” and a Zeiss 50 for longer shots. But have replaced both with a Voigtländer 40mm. While testing the Sigma FP L I feel in love with the 65mm, the 40 gets me very close. It’s also very compact.
The main thing I’ve learned from all the comments is that a lot of people still don’t understand what a rangefinder is. 😜
So true. And crop factor is still one of life's biggest mysteries for some 😂
Great video, so curious about the next parts :)
One question: so due to the APSC I guess the 25 becomes a 42-43, 35 becomes a 52-53, 40 a 60 and 50 a 75? And that's what will actually be indicated by the framelines, right? So there is no way to use a 14mm to get a 26mm equivalent WITH proper framelines in the patch?
Exactly, It shows what you get with the lens you use.
Exactly my question
Finally! Been waiting for this one.
Enjoy 😊
@@gearreallydoesntmatter any chance you would review the Zeiss ZX1?
It’s not available in Sweden and I was interested in buying one if I could try it first. Asked them two times, no answer. So I guess I won’t :)
Thanks for the explanation! I would looove to hear about the monochrome image outputs from this camera.
Wonderful review again! Love always thinking out of the box companies. Question; what are the flash sync numbers when using an external flash?
You can't use a flash with an electronic shutter. You will have to use an LED (like smartphones). In the video you see a photographer using LED-panels even though he has a DSLR. So there are options when needed. But its not a camera for hard core strobists.
@@gearreallydoesntmatterThanks! For example the Sigma FP camera has also only an electronic shutter and is able to use flash, although rather limited, but possible. I asked pixii for more information also.
You would have to find a way to trigger it since the Pixii doesn’t have a hot shoe.
Interesting camera and I'm happy to see the second part.
Could you say something more about color rendering in comparison to the Leica M9? Thx
Interesting camera which I would like, what lenses are you recommending, M Mount.
Your only options for the rangefinder are M or m39 adapted to M. Other lenses will be scale focus only.
I would love an SLR version of this, as in, a digital camera with most of limitations of film. Especially no screen. I love the ideal of the native mono mode too. I just wish it had SD card slots :-) I have a Pentax MX (film camera) and would love a digital version of it, with 90% of it kept the same, just it used a digital sensor. I’d even keep the film winding lever as I love the tactile nature of it ha
Looks like a very intriguing camera. Thanks for the first video!
You said, that there are frame lines for 28, 35 and 50mm. Since this is APS-C, the widest frame line gives you a field of view of about 42mm?
The entire window is wider, about 24mm. I prefer using my 21mm and don't have to "compensate", I just get a little more in frame.
i loved your guesstimation :))
Would love to try/own one. The concepts and ideas behind the design are excellent and fresh and forward thinking. There's a lot of cut and paste ideas with all the manufacturers, and it's good to see a company try to be different. I look forward to the full review :)
Much more desirable than I thought it will be ! And made in France (cocorico ! 😍). This one is on my list now, if I have some funds...
🙏 this looks like a lot of fun. Thanks for showing this one. Oh and the pictures look great, i would say somewhere in the region of my M8 and my sigma dp1🙏 I am gooing for a little bit off googlin’
will you be upgrading to the new 2023 model? What do they mean by computational photo with the new camera?
I have both right now and yes, I will upgrade.
Thanks for the video. Can you please tell me what lens have you use for the photos at 0:46 and 4:22 respectively.
Zeiss 35/2.8 and Voigtlander 21/4.
So.... The widest frame line is 28mm, which is about 40mm (full frame equiv)?
Yeah, like the film Leica CL. Not very wide.
The viewfinder is about 24mm. I shoot wider than that maybe 50% of the time, no issues.
Mattias, question: are you shooting JPG? If not, have you and what were the results? Tak.
No I shoot raw only. I have tried the jpegs and will talk about in another video.
@@gearreallydoesntmatter Thank you
How does the shutter release “button” feel? Does it feel like a normal shutter release? Also what is the best bang for your buck lens for it?
It’s a bit sensitive but like anything you get used to it. Half press was a bit tricky in the beginning.
I recently have fallen in love with the TTArtisan 28mm f/5.6 for Leica M ... on my analogue CL it delivers beautiful pictures - and selling for just close to 300 € it is kinda affordable too
Such a tempting camera. I just got an X-Pro3 half a year ago and I plan to travel for a view months soon so I am very likely not going to buy one. But still a tempting camera. I really like the internal memory and the ability to upload to a flash drive. Looking forward to your more in depth review. Thanks.
Xpro3 is also nice.
Beautiful perspective as always. And like you, I'm a sucker for unusually designed cameras too. It fits my personality because I actively have created my adult life as against the accepted norm. Initially organically but now after a decade plus, it just feels 100% me and would have loved to translate that into my love for cars and motorcycles but my finances allowed me to do so, to a humble extent, with cameras. If I could just eventually get to a point where i can finally translate that into adopting a cat or a dog, that would be heaven on earth for me but I'm happy now too.
I would love one, but honestly I'm intimidated by the rangefinder element. Nonetheless, a gorgeous group of test photos as always, and a beautifully presented video.
Rangefinders aren’t for everyone.
Thank you Mattias, very interesting initial review of this intriguing camera. There seems to be a lot of hate out there for this camera which I can't understand - if its not for you and you truly have understood the concept behind it then fine don't buy it but why the hate? For me I'm finely balanced between buying it as a digital companion to my M-A (127) or waiting to see how things develop. I guess I'm more nervous about the future of the company than with any short comings in the actual camera as the whole concept is that it can be easily upgraded (both hardware/firmware etc). I will be very interested to see how you get on with your new French partner :)
Yeah I can never understand the camera-tribe arguments. Such a waste.
Yeah it’s exciting to see how it develops, I will talk about a possible firmware update in my next video :)
@@gearreallydoesntmatter A waste indeed ! Thanks,look forward to it :)
@@gearreallydoesntmatter Hi Mattias , I communicated with David at Pixii and decided to buy one ....should be here in the UK in a few weeks. Excited and of course a bit nervous ha ha ....
Wow, cool. As long as you are ready for a rangefinder that isnt like the others you will be fine :) Im working on a video with some pros and cons that should be out in a couple of days.
Ive also created a Facebook group for Pixii users: facebook.com/groups/668692364396682/
There is only three of us in it right now but it can grow. Personally Im not a fan on FB but the private group function is pretty nice. The interface is very suitable for sharing tips&tricks as well as images.
@@gearreallydoesntmatter Thanks ,well I like things that are different so I think I will be fine . Current kit bag includes Kiev 5 , Nikon 35Ti , Konica Hexar AF , Nikon S3 2000 and Sigma SD Quattro and Fuji Instax Evo - so I'm not exactly mainstream I guess . The video will be most welcome - look forward to it ! I'm not on FB - have always resisted ( and Twitter ) but will see..... Thanks
Ngl I rly wished pixii had the manual dials like the leica but it's still rly amazing on what they have accomplished
My first serious 135 camera was a Leica IIIa, so I know something about film-using cameras of the last century. The first Leica Screw Mount camera that had "framelines in the viewfinder" was a Canon P. This "Leica M3 substitute" worked just fine for decades, as I preferred to save money to buy lenses, film, and daily necessities. (Even in the 1970's, the Leica M-series cameras were premium goods with lenses to match.) Instead of Summicron lenses, Shutterbug Ads offered a 28mm f/2.8 Canon and a 105mm f/2.5 Nikkor. It is interesting that modern/digital cameras can take Leica M lenses. (Picks up a Fujifilm X30) Oh well, life with "trailing edge" technology can be...interesting.
Hello. What lens would you recommend to get the 28mm and 40mm field of view when used on the pixii ?
Thank you
My most used lenses are the Voigtlander 40mm f1.4 and 21mm f4.
There is some genius usability here. I love and hate that it is aps-c. On the one hand: more forgiving zone focus. On the other: there's less options on the wide end of the M mount.
There are many wide lenses once you start looking. From 9mm and up.
@@gearreallydoesntmatter Okay, what I really mean is I want the amazing Leica 28mm Elmarit 2.8, and the Voightlander 40mm f1.4 pancake, but to still be a 28mm and 40mm eq. when I put them on. 😂
Honestly, I think the utilitarian design of the Pixii would still convince me to get it over a Leica at the same price. Those features are great. ✌️
This camera looks so cool ! I don't know why i've not heard of it before. I just bought an M10, 3 weeks ago and can you believe the rangefinder broke ? lol had to send it back to germany,,,,
Thats sucks, but it happens. Hopefully you get it back soon 👍
great introduction. looks like a very enjoyable camera to say the least. the 40mm framelines are pretty interesting. but how about the minimal focusing distance, probably the same as on a leica m i would guess?!
Correct. The lens determines the closest focusing distance so they work like they would on a Leica or any other camera.
Love this camera!