Olympus OM-E E-M1: New top model

Note: Read our praxistest on the OM-D E-M1!


New sensors without low-pass filter


The new Olympus OM-D E-M1 Micro Four Thirds camera is equipped with a new 16 megapixel live MOS sensor. It is the basis for the new hybrid AF with contrast AF in 88 fields and the phase detection AF in 37 fields, which can also be individually selected. Selected green pixels are used to analyze the phase shift. Olympus calls his system in the E-M1 as "Dual Fast AF" and as one of the fastest ever.


Comfortable viewfinder


Unlike the previous Olympus Micro Four Thirds models, the Olympus OM-D E-M1's new AF system allows to use the existing four-third-generation E-System lenses. This is still done by means of adapters, but now with automatic focus instead of manual focusing as before. With Micro Four Thirds lenses, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 uses the Contrast AF, when the E lens is on, it automatically switches to Phase Detection AF. Focusing should be done with E-lenses just as fast as with the Olympus E-5 (test). With Olympus' four-thirds lenses, Olympus promises even a maximum of 6.4 B / s with continuous focus and 10 fps with AF-S pre-focus.


More connectivity


The new sensor of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 works in conjunction with a new Truepic VII image processor. It is primarily responsible for fast response and handling of new functions. The sensitivities remain unchanged with ISO 200-25.600 plus LOW (ISO100), but the image quality is visibly better in structure and color especially with high ISO values, as first image examples from Olympus show. According to the manufacturer, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 offers "the best image quality ever for an Olympus."


Price and availability


The correction of the chromatic aberration optimized for the respective lens as well as an iris-dependent sharp image by means of diffraction reduction also contribute to this. Furthermore, the sensor of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 comes without a low-pass filter. Proudly, Olympus is also proud of its image stabilization by five axes, already known from the OM-E E-M5 (Test). It is said to provide a four-degree (CIPA-standard) protection against camera shake, especially with longer exposures, and works with all lenses and also with video recordings from the movement.


Another highlight of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 is the integrated live view finder. 786,666 RGB pixels give a very sharp image, an exit pupil of 21 mm and a search magnification of effectively 0.74x allow a commode viewfinder view as with professional full-format SLRs. An automatic brightness control ensures that the viewfinder image reflects the actual ambient brightness darker, sometimes brighter, as used by an optical viewfinder. However, if desired, the image already adjusted by the exposure system in terms of its brightness can also be shown electronically. The foldable 3-inch LCD monitor of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 is already known from the E-M5. Also, Olympus promises professional ease of use with numerous buttons, levers and wheels for direct access.


The exposure possibilities known from the E-M5 have been extended and refined in a number of points. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 allows the color correction to be adjusted using the Live View image before shooting. The effect of a new 4-image HDR mode, either in the "Classic" or "Effect-Enhanced" version, can also be controlled before recording by live-view image. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 can be combined into a time-lapse video. The Art Filter Diorama II now creates a circular blur range around the area that is sharp in the area of ​​the AF field used for focusing. A focus-peak function helps with manual focusing. For faster operation, a second thumbwheel for the right thumb is now available as a complement to the front right hand side of the E-M1.


Videos, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 remains unchanged with 1,920 x 1.80 pixels and 30 B / s. The picture quality should also benefit from the new sensor / processor combination. An external stereo microphone can be connected via a micro-input.


The built-in WLAN module of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 not only allows wireless communication, but also remote control of the camera when the app is installed on a smartphone or tablet. Controllable are Live View, Off, Shooting View, Self-timer, Touch AF / Shutter, P / A / S / M, Exposure Programs and Bulb Mode -controlability of the exposure progress on the mobile monitor.


The entire OM-D-E-M1 technology is packaged in a robust, dust- and water-protected housing, which is frost-proof up to -10 °. It weighs slightly more compact than the E-M5 at practically the same weight of 430 g with 130 x 94 x 63 mm. The E-M1 power supply is the same type as the E-M5 and E-P5. With an optional battery grip, the E-M1 is significantly larger, but also more durable.


Overview: All Olympus System Cameras tested


The housing of the Olympus OM-E E-M1 is to come in September 2013 for 1,500 euros in the trade, the set with the new Zoom ED 2,8 / 12-40 mm Pro is to cost 2,200 euros. This saves 200 euros compared to the retail purchase. If you buy your E-M1 before the 23rd of November, you will receive an e-lens adapter MMF-3 worth 200 euros for free.


As the E-M1 takes over the role of Four Thirds Professional E-5 in the Olympus range, the E-5 will be sold out as long as stocks last but will not continue to be produced. According to Olympus, new e-models will no longer exist.


Specifications


Download: Table


Picture gallery