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E-PL2 looks disappointing

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Tim in upstate NY

Tim in upstate NY

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http://www.43rumors.com

. . . After looking at the listed differences between the E-PL1 and E-PL2, I don’t see anything that indicates that the E-PL2 has the TruPic V+ image processing software along with the lighter low pass filter of the E5.

. . . In fact, it doesn’t look at all like a worthwhile upgrade for those who already own a E-P2 or E-PL1.

. . . I'm still hoping though that Oly hits a homerun with the upcoming E-P3 in a few months.
 
The more you build it up in your mind, the more likely you are to be disappointed.

Reference the uproar over the GF2. Most were outraged that it wasn't what THEY wanted, few had any technical merit to their unhappiness.
 
Yes, but the GF2 introduced at least a completely new usage concept (touchscreen operation), whereas the EPL-2 seems just what the EPL-1 should have had from the beginning: 460K LCD and a good performing kit lens. All the other new stuff are rather effects and gimmicks, but nothing what really contributes significant progress.

--
Thomas
 
with your assessment that the E-PL2 is a disappointment. The E-PL1 has a number of drawbacks compared to its direct competitors:
  • low resolution screen
  • slow AF kitlens
  • 1/2000 max shutter speed
  • operation with buttons instead of dials
  • speed of operation
  • and a personal one: design
Otherwise, it's a very good camera already. What we know is that the first three will be fixed, along with the design (E-PL2 looks much more attractive, and it seems less bulky than the E-PL1 as well).

The photo of the back of the camera in an earlier post seems to suggest that there are no buttons like on the E-PL1. Maybe that means there is some kind of wheel for direct exposure/aperture/shutter adjustments. If that's indeed the case, then the speed of operation will be the only one left, and it could have been fixed as well.

This camera is no replacement for a good mid-level camera like the E-620 or GH2. I also don't think it is meant as an upgrade for current E-P2 and E-PL1 users (who own their camera's for less than one year!). But it's a nice development of an entry-level segment camera, that will keep Olympus competitive with other offers in that segment. Remember that the E-PL1 was Olympus' top selling camera last year, and that makes it important to keep it up to date and competitive.
Tim in upstate NY said:
http://www.43rumors.com

. . . After looking at the listed differences between the E-PL1 and E-PL2, I don’t see anything that indicates that the E-PL2 has the TruPic V+ image processing software along with the lighter low pass filter of the E5.

. . . In fact, it doesn’t look at all like a worthwhile upgrade for those who already own a E-P2 or E-PL1.

. . . I'm still hoping though that Oly hits a homerun with the upcoming E-P3 in a few months.
Click to expand...
--
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bilgy_no1
 
tgutgu said:
Yes, but the GF2 introduced at least a completely new usage concept (touchscreen operation), whereas the EPL-2 seems just what the EPL-1 should have had from the beginning: 460K LCD and a good performing kit lens. All the other new stuff are rather effects and gimmicks, but nothing what really contributes significant progress.
Click to expand...
. . . Exactly. i wasn't looking to buy an E-PL2 myself so maybe I overstated how I feel about it. What I want for myself is a compact PEN style body and a built in EVF along with the E5's image quality (E-P3 ?). If it had a new generation sensor with better high ISO capability all the better but I'm not expecting that for more than another year (E-P4 ?).

. . . The E-PL2 is certainly going to be a good camera that first timers to m4/3 will enjoy quite a lot just like many have with the E-PL1. I was just wondering why it doesn't appear to at least incorporate the E5's TruPic V+ image processing software along with the lighter low pass filter of the E5. If true, that seems like an unexpected shortcoming IMO.
 
I'm liking the changes. Improved ISO, shutter speed, LCD, SDXC, kit lens, etc. Most upgrades on any camera are incremental anyway and these all look good. If they have improved the imaging enough to get to 6400, then even if it doesn't have the E-5's TruePic V+ wouldn't all ISO levels be somewhat improved anyway?

I really like the thought of cable release but looking at the pics I don't see where it would attach. I expected it to be in the mode dial on top but maybe it will be 'Accessory Port 2'? Would rather have a wireless remote though - that would be sweet. Would also like to see 5 frames for AE bracketing but haven't seen those specs yet.

Don't care too much for the background music but that seems more common lately. And all the scene modes are overkill to me. I like a few but don't think I would ever use or need 22.

Does anyone know what the 'Dramatic Tone' Art Filter is? I am guessing it is some kind of HDR Lite? It is on the E-5 so if anyone has some examples please post a couple.

Looks great for people just getting into m43 and if they have them in blue I might be tempted to go for one myself. Overall I'd prefer to wait for a 'pro' body if that is going to happen this year.

Cheers.
--
µJoe
http://www.flickr.com/photos/joey_m43/sets
 
Tim in upstate NY said:
tgutgu said:
Yes, but the GF2 introduced at least a completely new usage concept (touchscreen operation), whereas the EPL-2 seems just what the EPL-1 should have had from the beginning: 460K LCD and a good performing kit lens. All the other new stuff are rather effects and gimmicks, but nothing what really contributes significant progress.
Click to expand...
. . . Exactly. i wasn't looking to buy an E-PL2 myself so maybe I overstated how I feel about it. What I want for myself is a compact PEN style body and a built in EVF along with the E5's image quality (E-P3 ?). If it had a new generation sensor with better high ISO capability all the better but I'm not expecting that for more than another year (E-P4 ?).
Click to expand...
So, your problem here is a matter of expectations. Why would you expect features from Olympus' flagship 4/3rd camera to make it's way into it's entry-level MFT body? It makes no sense. This E-PL2 is a nice evolution of an already good product, and it will help bring more people into the MFT system.

--
Sam Bennett - http://www.swiftbennett.com
 
I wonder what the difference is between the Accessory Port 2 and the accessory port as currently on the EPL-1 and E-P2.
 
I agree with Bilgy_no1 and Sam Bennett. The update does not sound super exciting, but so far it appears that Oly improved on a very good camera (E-PL1) without taking anything away. Moreover, for the most part improvement is in key areas where E-Pl1 had weaknesses such as
  • screen
  • AF of the kit lens
  • remote release
I am a bit concerned about the reports that 2 buttons disappeared from the back. If it is so, it would have been a disappointment. One would have to wait for reports on the screen and kit lens to make a final conclusion. It looks like there is not enough incentive for E-PL1 owners to upgrade, but for newcomers into m4/3, E-PL2 should be an attractive choice.

I have to say, unlike some here, I quite like Oly strategy of steady improvement. I hate it when new model introduces desirable new features, while taking away your favorite features of an old one.
 
Modern photo-buffs are an odd bunch.

They get so easily disappointed by every new camera if it doesn't have features which make their old cameras obsolete.

New cameras are not introduced solely for the purpose of making people upgrade. The market is dynamic with new people entering every day. People buy their first cameras, buy second cameras, switch brands and so on. As with EVERY OTHER PRODUCT, manufacturers continually produce slightly updated goods to provide items for the buying public.

Car makers produced new model cars every year like clockwork. Are we disappointed because the 2011 Toyota doesn't have enough new features to make us sell our 2010 Toyotas? Is the new Samsung TV set appealing enough to make you get rid of the Samsung TV you bought last year?

And yet, every new Olympus camera that doesn't obsolete the previous model seems to be reason for disappointment.

How odd.
 
Well said.
It's the second "dainty morsel" some people fall in disappointment with. :-)

Not me!
redrunnertc said:
The more you build it up in your mind, the more likely you are to be disappointed.

Reference the uproar over the GF2. Most were outraged that it wasn't what THEY wanted, few had any technical merit to their unhappiness.
Click to expand...
--
'Life is something that happens to you while you're making other plans'.
M. Millar
 
µJoe said:
I really like the thought of cable release but looking at the pics I don't see where it would attach. I expected it to be in the mode dial on top but maybe it will be 'Accessory Port 2'? Would rather have a wireless remote though - that would be sweet. Would also like to see 5 frames for AE bracketing but haven't seen those specs yet.
Click to expand...
On the ep2 the cable release works through the camera's usb mini port - the same port used to upload photos to a computer (assuming you don't take the card out and read it directly). I'd assume the epl2 will work the same way. Nothing you'd notice on the exterior of the camera one way or another...

-Ray
 
We already know they removed some buttons. Hopefully the new dial is fully functional.

"Live Guide II for still images and for Movie capture with Rotating Dial "

This makes sense since the XZ-1 has a dial instead of buttons. The only advantage the e-p2 now has over the e-pl2 is an extra dial and metal body, while the e-pl2 has built-in flash, better screen, faster AF with new kit lens, and a few other minor features. It certainly seems like the e-p3 will need to move further upscale (ie. built-in EVF, built-in flash, etc) to better differentiate the lines and will likely be taller in size as well.
 
I think some people just need to whine about whatever. The camera incorporates enough new benefits and features to attract some who haven't bought into an EVIL form design yet and some who will see enough to either add to their gear or trade up.

Dan
--

Will I learn from life's lessons or will I lose my faith in the goodness life's promise had to offer?
 
I agree with your assessment Bilgy. It will be interesting to see how the E-PL2 performs in terms of speed and whether IQ has been marginally improved.

I was trying to think what the E-P3? could end up being like. I can see two possibilities:
  • a rangefinder styled body with a moderate sized EVF that is a bit bigger than an E-P1/2
  • a GH1/DSLR styled body with a larger EVF or even a digital version of the OM
Any thoughts or predictions?

I certainly hope that Oly produces a new kit lens with the upcoming E-P3? - something like a micro 43 version of the 12-60 would be great or even a 12-50 range HG lens.

THe next few months should be good.
 
TEBnewyork said:
six background Music (Melancholy, Nostalgic, Love, Joy, Cool, Beat)
Click to expand...
To read some of what people post here you'd think that all the Oly users must already have the "Melancholy" feature turned on in the current models :)

--
Ken W

Rebel XT, XTi, Pany G1, LX3, FZ28, Fuji F30, and a lot of 35mm and 4x5 sitting in the closet...
 
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