How can Sony justify charging nearly $3k for P&S camera? Yes, I know it has a full-frame sensor. But it has a fixed lens and no viewfinder. You have to pony up another $600 for the companion finder (others are available for less). Does this make sense to anyone?
I'm not sure what would classify the RX1 as a point and shoot. I essentially sold all of my digital gear in favor of the RX1, including my M9+35/2 ASPH. I've come to actually prefer the modular nature of the RX1's viewfinder setup, and here's why:
- Amazingly, I find that a hotshoe OVF works really well, despite not being electronically connected. The camera's AF always locks on, and the metering is great (you can de-link metering from the shutter.) It works so well that I actually got rid of the EVF, because I never used it. BTW, I bought a Voigtlander OVF for a fraction of the price of the Sony/Zeiss, and it is more compact. I REALLY like it, and I find that my keeper rate is no worse than my X100s' OVF was.
- As an OVF user, I don't have to deal with a built-in EVF that is in the way, and it also won't date the camera so quickly. New hotshoe-based EVFs will potentially keep the camera up to date down the road.
- If you do like an EVF, the tilt feature is great. I used to own a NEX-5N and a NEX-7, and I actually preferred the modular, tilting EVF of the 5N much of the time.
- When I do occasionally use the LCD, I don't have to shoot it at "arms length." I can just put my arms at my side, with my elbows tucked, and shoot it at about chin level maybe 7"-8" from my face. This is a very sturdy foundation for shooting. Of course, I would probably prefer a tilt lcd, but the sensor is already at the back of the camera, and that would probably add noticeable thickness to the camera body. The viewing angle of the current LCD is very good.
I find the RX1 to be a fantastic camera, and a relative bargain, since it replaced Leica gear that was $10K when new.