The gap between digital SLR cameras and compact cameras are getting smaller and smaller. When you read the launch document of the XZ-1 then its clear that Olympus did not hold back when defining the XZ-1 project. I cannot help to think what the possible team slogan was while developing the so-called X-Factor. Any ideas? Well, looking at the E-PL2 and the X-Factor I surely love the detail, the clean lines and the beautiful high quality design. I read one can fit the E-P2 Electronic View Finder on the X-Factor, no doubt that would be a great add on, especially in bright sunlight.

Who would be interested in something like this? I have used the G11 from Canon for approximately 11 months and prior to that I had the LX3 from Panasonic one year. These are both excellent camera’s, especially if it’s your main or only camera. As backup to a good SLR and the G11 or LX3 just do not satisfy. The next choice is then something like the micro 4/3 rds camera. The problem in this case is the camera including the lens or two is not much smaller than a DSLR. That makes the micro 4/3 rds not the most practical backup to the DSLR. Its this space I assume the X-Factor will fill perfectly.

What is more interesting is the sensor Olympus use in this camera plus the lens. The sensor does not follow the trend today and instead of using a CMOS sensor Olympus decided for a CCD type sensor. In the past Olympus had tremendous results using the Kodak CCD sensors in the early E-systems DSLR cameras. It is possible to get the better image quality from a CCD type sensor and I am sure we will again see the legendary Olympus colors with this camera. Also worth noting is the top quality lens Olympus fitted to this camera. Olympus is known for their outstanding E-system DSLR lenses and from the looks of it Olympus used their lens making experience to match the CCD with a very fast lens. Not only is this great for indoor shooting conditions, these lenses also are top creative tools in talented hands. Folks now is the time to let go any advance compact and to order the X-factor....