Thread: Fuji Introduces New X20 - Adds New Sensor and Fast Autofocus

Originally Posted by Ray

I think EXR is generally thought of as the pixel binning sensor/processing used in cameras like the X10, XF1, XS1, and several earlier, smaller sensor cameras. But Fuji also uses EXR as sort of a brand name for all of their processing, even on cameras with nothing like pixel binning associated with them. The X100 and X-Pro are branded as EXR as well. Where its mostly just a branding exercise. So on the new X100s, I'm sure that's all it is. On the X20, I don't have the foggiest idea. Can you mix pixel binning and the X-Trans filter? Is a 2/3" X-Trans good enough to make pixel binning unnecessary? I'm interested to find out as details emerge.

-Ray

Doesn't the X-Trans use randomly placed red/green/blue pixels? If EXR splits a sensor in two, and then superimposes two images, it'd be interesting to see if the two technologies can be combined.

Link to the Fuji site:

X20 | FUJIFILM

No talk of pixel binning in Fuji's explanation of the X-Trans sensor and the EXR engine:

http://fujifilm-x.com/development_story/en/processor/

Man, that finder in the X20 looks like it does some pretty amazing tricks for what's essentially a dumb OVF - a lot of dynamic information on a largely transparent digital layer, including focus point, focus confirmation, parallax info, and all of the standard shooting info. No mention of pixel binning, but makes claims of 30% less noise and 130-140% more DR "than previous models" - assuming the X10 is the previous model in question is that relative to the full resolution mode or the EXR mode?

I'm not gonna jump early on this, but if the IQ is a notable improvement at 12mp over the X10 at 6mp, I may jump soon enough.

-Ray

I tried to jump the gun and place a pre-order on the B&H site: searched for Fuji X20 and was taken immediately to the EF-X20 - the flash unit for the X series. Already got one of those...

Must be patient....

Oh no. I must own the X20.

Looks like I'm selling my flawless new sensor x10!

Fuji Guys on the X20:

FG X20 - First Look - YouTube

So after reading the DPR Previews for both of these cameras (now up) and checking out the videos, the X100S looks really impressive - a major upgrade. The X20 has three notable changes to my mind and one of them is a really open question. The focus looks like it will be quite improved with the addition of phase detect. And the viewfinder looks frankly mind-blowing - not quite the hybrid OVF/EVF in the X100 and X-Pro but a really really impressive OVF with a full helping of shooting info in a bright OVF that zooms with the lens. This looks really impressive to me. But the wild-card is the sensor and how good it is relative to the EXR mode in the X10. Clearly it will resolve more detail - presumably the lens is up to the job here. But how well it will handle low light and DR we'll just have to wait and see. DPR seemed to suggest it might not be as good but they were clearly guessing too. If its notably better than the X10 in EXR mode, I think it'll be a hit, although it will be interesting to see it up against the RX100 and the boatload of imitators sure to come down the pike over the next months or year or so. If its LESS good than the X10 in these areas, though, then I think the AF speed and viewfinder turn into so much eye-candy. I'm hopeful but mildly skeptical...

-Ray

Fujifilm X20 First Look - YouTube

What digital camera looks at the X20

I might get a silver one and just make out it's the X100s lol

Adorama now has the X100S up for pre-order.

X20 also in black or silver- $599.