Preview based on a pre-production Ricoh GDR IV running firmware 1.02
With the announcement of the GR Digital IV, Ricoh updates its premium compact camera model. A successor to the GR Digital III, the GRD IV retains key elements from its predecessor. A fixed 28mm F1.9 lens sits in front of a 10MP 1/1.7" type CCD sensor, capable only of VGA video output. There's also a built-in pop-up flash and hotshoe. However, dig a little deeper and the changes are considerably more extensive.
Ricoh has taken the opportunity to introduce numerous enhancements to the GRD IV. As you might expect, there's an updated image processor that Ricoh is using to wring more out of the sensor. Beyond this the most notable addition is an image stabilization system that uses sensor-shift to counteract camera shake. Ricoh also adds its 'Hybrid AF' system with which they claim a 2x improvement in AF speed over the GRD III. And, in what has become something of a Ricoh tradition, the GRD IV features a cutting-edge display: Sony's WhiteMagic RGBW LCD screen that promises greater luminance than traditional LCD displays while consuming less power.
The camera's electronic level gauge has also been overhauled, and now detects not only horizontal roll, but also tilt inclination, which is eminently useful when photographing buildings or other vertical structures. In one of the best (and sadly, rare) implementations of multiple exposure shooting, the GDR IV allows you to overlay up to five separate image captures into a single composite, with the option to automatically save the individual image files as well.
The GRD IV maintains the external control layout of its predecessor, providing easy access to shooting and exposure parameters without having to change your grip from the shooting position. This well thought-out, ergonomically sensitive design is enhanced by many useful customization options. The camera's two Fn buttons can be configured in pairs, allowing you to setup and switch between up to four combinations of dual-button function sets. A well-placed 'Adj.' lever provides quick access to a maximum of five shooting parameters. The specific selection and order of these parameters can be customized from an exhaustive list of options.
The external body design of the GRD IV is virtually unchanged from the GRD III. And while the camera's rather box-like, spartan aesthetic may not win any beauty awards in comparison to its more showy competition, it is solidly built, comfortable in hand and offers a sure grip. Owners of the GRD IV can opt for Ricoh's grip customization service with a choice of metal, leather or carbon replacement hand grips.
Ricoh is simultaneously releasing a limited edition (10,000 unit) version of the GRD IV in a white body with a metal lens cap and leather camera strap.
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| Ricoh's GR Digital cameras, with their fixed focal-length lenses and compact sensors have no direct peers (the closest equivalents, such as the Panasonic LX5 pictured here, all feature zoom lenses), but have developed a loyal following. What this picture can't convey is the GRD's excellent build quality and superb control system. |
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If you're new to digital photography you may wish to read the Digital
Photography Glossary before diving into this article (it may help
you understand some of the terms used).
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Conclusion / Recommendation / Ratings are based on the opinion of the reviewer, you should read the ENTIRE review before coming to your own conclusions. Images which can be viewed at a larger size have a small magnifying glass icon in the bottom right corner of the image, clicking on the image will display a larger (typically VGA) image in a new window. To navigate the review simply use the next / previous page buttons, to jump to a particular section either pick the section from the drop down or select it from the navigation bar at the top. DPReview calibrate their monitors using Color Vision OptiCal at the (fairly well accepted) PC normal gamma 2.2, this means that on our monitors we can make out the difference between all of the (computer generated) grayscale blocks below. We recommend to make the most of this review you should be able to see the difference (at least) between X,Y and Z and ideally A,B and C. |
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This article is Copyright 2011 and may NOT in part or in whole be reproduced in any electronic or printed medium without prior permission from the author.
RICEP Ricoh GR DIGITAL IV US 10 MP Digital Camera with 1x Optical Zoom and 3-Inch LCD screen (Black) | $471.60 |
Ricoh GR 16.2 MP Digital Camera with 3.0-Inch LED Backlit (Black) | $789.99 |
RICOH Degital Camera GR DIGITAL IV | $380.00 |
RICEP Ricoh GR DIGITAL IV US 10 MP Digital Camera with 1x Optical Zoom and 3-Inch LCD screen (White) | $616.00 |
Ricoh Gr Digital Iv Digital Camera White Edition ,Limited White | $519.99 |
Ricoh S10 24-72mm f/2.5-4.4 VC Ricoh LENS with 10MP CCD Sensor | $199.00 |
Ricoh GR Digital IV - Digitalkamera - Kompaktkamera | $565.90 |
Ricoh GXR Interchangeable Unit Digital Camera System with 3-Inch High-Resolution LCD | $156.99 |
Ricoh Camera Kit Includes GXR and S10 24-72 mm F2.5-4.4 VC Ricoh Lens | $352.50 |
Ricoh CX3 10MP CMOS Digital Camera with 10.7x Wide Angle Optical Macro Zoom and 3.0 inch LCD (Light Gray/Pink) | $200.00 |
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