Pre-PMA 2009: Epson has announced a new version of the R-D1 rangefinder on its Japanese website. The new R-D1x model maintains most of the features of the previous camera including a 6Mp APS-C sensor, but adds a larger 2.5" LCD screen, support for the higher-capacity SD-HC card format and a removable handgrip. Epson will start shipping the new rangefinder from April 2009, at a price to be confirmed.

Updated: According to Epson UK, the R-D1x is being released only in Japan and there are no plans for a European release.

Click here to read about the previous R-D1s rangefinder

Click here for the Japanese Press Release