Last Updated on 07/02/2014 by Chris Gampat
This nifty diagram shows how the Leica M Monochrom can deliver greater sharpness than other cameras that shoot in color, and Sony may have a stronger answer to Leica’s $8,000 monochromatic wunderkind. According to a level 3 rumor on Sony Alpha Rumors, Sony may be working on a full-frame black and white sensor for the RX line of compact cameras. Think RX1, but in black-and-white.
Unfortunately, we need to take this with a sizable grain of salt because Sony Alpha Rumor’s gives any rumor labeled SR3 a 50/50 chance of it being correct. So, while a compact black & white full-frame option may excite some, it has to be said that there’s a good chance it could all be hogwash.
Now, if it is true, it will probably go for far less than the Leica M Monochrom. The RX1 is still one of the most expensive cameras in Sony’s lineup at around $3,000, and a monochromatic option is likely to come within the ballpark of that price point, maybe a little less or maybe a little more.
And if Sony keeps on doing what it’s doing, its b&w RX titan would likely best the Leica M Monochrom in terms of image quality. While it is an impressive camera, the Monochrom is a boutique option for those with money to spare. Sony would likely have greater appeal with a lower price point, but who’s to say?
The likelihood of this being at all true is up to, quite literally, a coin toss.