Yes, I'm familiar with this review, but I'd really like to hear Michael Reichmann's comments on the camera.
As for the GR-D not having a zoom, you're right, it's a major drawback IMHO. However Ricoh does have a somewhat similar camera that does - the
Caplio GX8. It has a quite a few advantages over the LX1:
1. Much quicker AF (a given with all Ricoh digicams)
2. Much quicker off-to-shot-taken
3. Optical viewfinder
4. ISO 800 and 1600
5. True 28mm (not limited to 16:9 like in the LX1).
6. Standard hot-shoe for mounting external flash units
7. Supports both Li-Ion and AA.
8. Has a dedicated Ricoh 21mm wide converter
9. Built in lens-cap
10. 1cm Macro
11. Front control dial
12. Slightly faster lens (f2.5 vs. f2.
The Panasonic does have several advantages of its own:
1. High-res video
2. Image stabilization (OIS)
3. RAW mode
4. Metal tripod thread (unlike the Ricoh's plastic one).
All in all, I think that for those looking for a 28mm-zoom compact, the GX8 is a much better solution.
Prog.