Ricoh GXR Interchangeable Unit Camera System

Encased in a rigid magnesium alloy body, multiple camera units can be changed to fit the scene being photographed, in the same way traditional SLRs change lenses. The lens, image sensor and image processing engine are all contained within the interchangeable units.

Image sensors on standard SLRs are conventionally held within the body of the camera, housing the sensor within the changeable units makes it difficult for dust and dirt to get inside since the sensor is not exposed at any stage.

Building on the design of the GR and GX series, the GXR features several customisable buttons, including the new ‘direct’ button which can be used to view many current settings at a glance. A directional pad, three ‘My’ settings, the ADJ lever and function buttons have all been designed to be increasingly user-friendly.

The small size of the camera shouldn’t prevent gripping issues with the GXR as the grip form and rubber material on the surface allows is designed to combat this.

In terms of picture shooting modes, the automatic exposure modes include program shift mode, shutter priority mode and aperture priority mode which picture settings can be customised with 9 setting levels. ISO levels of up to 3200 have been included for low-light conditions.

Pre-AF(autofocus) function is designed to give quick focusing speed by adjusting the focus to match the subject’s movement, while preset distance focusing and automatic macro mode detection also allow for speedy shooting.

A high-resolution LCD picture display provides a wide viewing angle and high contrast and has been designed to resist soiling, scratches and includes an anti-reflection coating for visibility in bright conditions.

Several different lens units are available, including macro which features a 12.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor and an GR Engine III image processing engine. The S10 24-72mm unit comprises a 10 Megapixel CCD sensor, Smooth Imaging Engine IV and a camera shake correction function.

The GXR measures up at 113.9mm x 70.2mm x 28.99 mm (excluding projections) and weighs in at 160g (excluding battery, memory card, neck strap and connector cap which add an additional 66g.)

The GXR body is set to RRP at £419.99 while the MACRO lens and S10 RRP at £599.99 and £329.99 respectively. A range of accessories for the GXR system start at £24.99. For more detailed information and specifications, visit the Ricoh website.