XT-2 unboxing first impressions

First, fwiw, I would call myself a serious hobby shooter (whatever that means,) certainly not a pro.

My history is with Nikon film, 645 film and then on to the Nikon digitals, ending up with full frame.

Then I picked up a used X-Pro2, found the amazing Fuji glass, and the rest was history. I ordered the XT-2 at the end of July and opened the box tonight.

I also haven't done research or tried to fact check my comments, thus the word "impressions."

So, coming from that background, here are my first impressions:

1) Weight: The body feels surprisingly small and light. My wife shoots an EM1 that I was handling without a lens last night, and I was really surprised that the Fuji did not seem any heavier, or for that matter, much bigger. (Not sure why I thought it would be bigger. I've also never handled an XT-1.)

2) Key Parameter Control: The control of 5 key (to me) parameters is available via the dials on the top of the camera. The controls I care most about are selectable with the twist of a dial. Two have locks (Shutter Speed and ISO), and two more require a deliberate rotational click (Shooting Mode and Focus Mode) to change.

There is also an Exposure Comp knob (if it's the same as on the XP2, you have the option to use 5+/5- via the front dial or +3/-3 via the knob.)

All the knobs feel great and function perfectly. The markings are bright and clear and there is no extra play in any of the settings, once locked down.

Add the 16-55's firm aperture ring and I am more at home than I have been with a camera in a long, long time. Maybe ever.

Very smart. Very ergonomic. Providing excellent tactile interaction. Well done Fuji!

3) Articulating EVF - I really like being able to hold the camera at, or near, waist level, and have the ability to see the whole frame.

4) Overall build quality and looks - These are both A++ in my book. I really like the way the camera looks, feels and functions.

5) Balance with the grip and 16-55 - Initially I did not attach the grip, just mounted the lens. It felt good. I wished for a thicker grip (I have been using the Fuji metal grip on the X-Pro2) but otherwise thought it was fine.

Adding the Power Grip changed the balance completely. The camera became easy to hold. Like the great Nikons I owned, this body will be as at home with a "big" zoom as a fine prime.

6) Photo quality - Without taking a shot, I know this is at least as good as it is on the X-Pro2, so that will have to wait for next impressions. I'm not concerned. At the end of the day, it was the handling and photo quality of the X-Pro2 that convinced me to get the X-T2. So I already know it will be outstanding.

Conclusion: I had planned to keep both the X-Pro2 (primarily primes and replace my wife's EM1) and X-T2 (primarily zooms,) and sell her EM1 system. Now I'm wondering if I can find someone who doesn't like the XT-2 and wants to swap for a mint X-Pro2.

Any takers?