Frederick Lange, head of digital imaging at Sony Europe, explained that a low-pass filter – used to avoid the moiré effect – also reduces image detail.
‘We are targeting someone who is used to using high-end professional gear,’ he said.
Sony says it has optimised the camera’s processing functions to ‘maintain image sharpness without compromising lens/sensor performance’.
Though Sony has not conducted research to gauge the level of demand for a camera without a low-pass filter, Lange estimates that it will appeal to 10% of current RX1 users, based on feedback from professionals including those it has spoken to in connection with the Sony World Photography Awards.
Lange stressed the importance of ‘offering what other cameras can’t in a declining photographic market’.
Due in shops in August, the RX1R will cost £2,600, the same as the RX1 which was announced last year.
Sony has also unveiled a new flash, the HVL-F43M (pictured below).
It features a built-in LED light and a guide number of 43.
Price and availability have yet to be announced.
