Is the EM-1 still a good choice? Or better waiting for an update?

Frankly, if you don't find the noise and dynamic range acceptable, then Micro 4/3 is not for you - the current best Micro 4/3 cameras all have approximately equivalent IQ. I find it quite good, and don't agree with your assessment, but that's neither here nor there - your opinion is valid for you, but if that's the particular shortcoming that is holding you back, I don't think you'll be satisfied with the next upgrade.

But really, the only legitimate reason to wait on an upgrade for the E-M1 is if you want Panasonic's class of video along with Olympus' class of IBIS and the Olympus form factor and ergonomics. As still-image cameras, Micro 4/3's better cameras are pretty maxed out until a fundamentally better sensor shows up, and I don't mean negligibly and barely measurably better like the one in the E-M5 Mk II or the GH4.  It's possible that AF will continue to improve across the next upgrade, but that's a guess, and I find the E-M1's current AF with the latest firmware to be pretty good - and certainly as good as anything Fuji has.  Sony's limitations are not with their bodies, but rather, with their APS-C lens lineup.

As for an electronic shutter, I find that the 0-second delay serves the same purpose as an electronic shutter for my needs.

fratzi wrote:

Guys, I need your help! I´m considering buying an EM-1 due to its form factor. Now, there is a kit option available including the 12-40 and 40-150 Pro lens. I´ve tested the camera, and I was disappointed about its image noise which is noticeable even at ISO 200. I found the pictures a little to nervious. Further, the autofocus seemed to be inconsistent sometimes. Well, I only had it for a single weekend and therefore I was not too familiar with it. However, I think the Oly lens collection is extraordinary - especially for their prices- and the EM-1 in-body IBIS is fantastic. The dynamic range seems to be behind the competitors. Further, the absence of an electronic shutter mode is a further disadvantage.

In contrast, Fuji offers bulky and quite expensive lenses; many without any image stabilization and Sony´s lens collection is limited and their building quality seems to vary (even within the Zeiss branded Sony lenses).

1. So my question is would you go for the EM-1 kit or would you wait for the Sony a7000/ Fuji T2/X-Pro2 or for an EM-1 Mark II?
2. Who of you is using the FL600 flash system for portrait low light situations?

Many thanks in advance for sharing your experiences and thoughts!