X20 - alternatives anyone ?

I know that I rarely post on this forum (don't know why though) - but I do have the X-10 and absolutely love that camera. My copy is superb to say the least and it's stayin' in my collection.

But I have to state that I've also been using micro 4/3 products - well, actually, I've been on the 4/3 bandwagon ever since the release of the ole' Olympus E-1 (5 MP) DSLR (which I still maintain).  As such, I recently purchased an E-PL5 to upgrade my current m4/3 collection... and mannnnn, was I pleasantly surprised. I managed to get one at a great deal via B&H (who had it for a few days at only $549) along with the kit 14-42 II R lens (equivalent to a 28-84 zoom). When I first saw the photos of the E-PL5, I had assumed it would be a medium sized budget model, but wow was I surprised when it first arrived.

First of all, it's only a tad larger (not by much) than the X-10 (go figure), and it's a solid little booger with a superb finish and excellent ergonomics. The 16 MP sensor on that baby is the same one employed in Olympus's top of the line OMD EM-5 and it shows and it captures images with a superb, dynamic color tonality. High ISO capabilities are excellent - with results at ISO 2000 through 3200 that had me just shakin' my head (in a positive way).

I've since purchased several lenses for it (no primes yet) - and focused mostly on zoom lenses for the "flexibility" factor. I managed to get the 12-50 zoom (equivalent to a 24-100), and the Olympus 14-150 zoom (equivalent to a 28-300 zoom). But your best bet - in regards to sharpness and definition - is the older, yet awesome little Panasonic 14-45 OIS lens which only sells for around $260 USD (At B&H). I keep that particular Panny on my GF-1 most of the time, but with the likes of the E-PL5, I may switch it to there.

OK - but let's come back to the size. This was the most surprising thing for me. You see, I have other (earlier models) micro 4/3 bodies - those being: Panasonic GH-1 with a Panny 14-140 OIS lens (equivalent to a 28-280 zoom); the Panasonic GF-1 with the Panny 14-45 OIS lens; and the Olympus EP-2 with a Panny 20 MM f1.7 Lens (equivalent to a 40 MM lens). The E-PL5 was smaller than any of them and the kit lens is small, yet very nice.

So, what am I recommending here? Recommendations are a very subjective thing, that's for sure, and no two folks will agree. And equipment disagreements can often turn into shouting matches (which is ridiculous). I will say that if you like the prospect of a smaller interchangeable camera, then look no further than the 16 MP E-PL5. It has a superb color tonality, an excellent 16 MP sensor, superb high ISO capabilities (just about on par with most DSLR's), excellent ergonomics (well, that's subjective, I know), and is quality built. Additionally, there are quite a few folks who have a range of Fuji cameras, who have also adopted Micro 4/3 cameras.

So I would say that the E-PL5 is a wonderful addition. I don't think the X-20 (which I'm sure will be another superb model) is significantly better than the X-10 (other than the new OVF, which I think would be awesome).

Good luck with your choices....

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Have a great one....
Bernd (Ben) W. Herrmann
North Carolina, USA
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