E-PL1: makes sense?

elandel · #1 February 10th, 2012, 01:11 PM

Hi all,

I have a question. I think the Epl1 is a heck of a little camera and have the opportunity to get a new double zoom kit foe less tha 300 euros.
I already had one but sold it for a K5 that I sold. Now I have a G3 and thinking this would be a great backup camera. I don't want E-mp1 or E-pl3.

What do you owners of the new epx lineup think?

McDark · #2 February 10th, 2012, 01:26 PM

I'm having E-PL1 and G3 and still unsure which one's backup.

But I'd suggest getting 14-150 kit instead - its excellent, old E-PL1's short kit is not that good. Maybe you'll find no such great deal on it, but thats explainable

shnitz · #3 February 10th, 2012, 01:33 PM

The E-PL1 was slow to operate and the 14-42mm lens that came with it was also a slow performer, and you'll want to upgrade it. The E-PL2 is noticeably better in all apsects, if you can find it. However, seeing as you have a G3, just take that $300 and spend it on lenses; it will improve your photography more than collecting camera bodies and intro-level lenses. Why would you not want an E-PL3? It is basically an E-PL2 with a tilt screen, and also is better in every way than the E-PL1.

Ned · #4 February 10th, 2012, 01:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by elandel

I don't want E-mp1 or E-pl3.

Have you considered the E-PL2? It has everything the E-PL1 has and better. The E-PL1 is a great camera, but had some limitations and corners cut on it. The E-PL2 has a significantly larger LCD with double the screen resolution (an important aspect of a camera made for Live View!), an actual control dial, faster AF and response, twice the max shutter speed, remote compatibility, and a more stylish, sturdier build. It also comes with a better kit lens which has internal focus and is more solid, faster (for AF), smoother, and quieter. Yet the E-PL2 still retains all the good things about the E-PL1 such as sharp image quality, magnifier button, remote flash commander, large grip, etc.

Ned · #5 February 10th, 2012, 01:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by shnitz

Why would you not want an E-PL3? It is basically an E-PL2 with a tilt screen, and also is better in every way than the E-PL1.

This is just a guess, but since he mentioned both the new Lite and Mini he probably doesn't like the size and form factor of the new body... I love it, personally.

elandel · #6 February 10th, 2012, 01:45 PM

I have the 14-150 so I'll put it on the epl-1 if I get it and sell the 14-42 and 40-150.

I owned the epl2 and had no feeling with it and sold it. Also had the Ep2 which I loved but gave it to a relative who needed a camera so now I need to get a second body. I don't love the epl-3 and relative lineup so I don't question aboud IQ etc. of the new cameras, which are better, but not THAT better as I can see.

So my thinking is: I need/want a second body and don't want to spend much money because maybe at the end of this year I might consider an EP3 or OM-d E-M5 as my new camera.

I already have a complete lens lineup for my needs so the only thing I really need is a 9-18 that I'm waiting to buy if I find a real bargain.

My question is: is IQ all THAT better in new cameras?

McDark · #7 February 10th, 2012, 01:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by elandel

My question is: is IQ all THAT better in new cameras?

Not really. Only AWB is better for sure. But IBIS is more robust on older ones.

Ned · #8 February 10th, 2012, 02:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by McDark

Not really. Only AWB is better for sure. But IBIS is more robust on older ones.

Yes, that's what I was going to say as well. The only notable difference in Image Quality between the E-PL2, E-P3, E-PL3, and E-PM1 is the AWB in the latter 3 models. It is quite amazing how well it works however, unlike any other camera I've ever used. It seems to adjust for color like the human eye, but slower. After you turn OFF the default setting of "Keep Warm Colors", of course. ;)

starlabs · #9 February 10th, 2012, 02:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by elandel

I owned the epl2 and had no feeling with it and sold it.

If you didn't like the E-PL2, you would most definitely not like the E-PL1...

As McDark mentioned, the 14-42 that comes with the E-PL1 is not that good (build-quality-wise). So really the only benefit from the kit buy is the 40-200 that I assume is also bundled in. If that's the case better to buy it separately.

I liked the quality of my old E-PL1 but frankly got tired of its poor usability (no dials? Ugh). Sold it and am much happier with the E-P3.

shnitz · #10 February 10th, 2012, 02:11 PM

White balance and exposure are the only difference in technical image quality. Focusing speed doesn't affect a camera's performance on a test chart, but it may make a difference if you're capturing a moment. If slow focus, slow operation, and lack of controls won't hinder you, then the E-PL1 has the same quality as any newer PEN. But, the E-PL1 is just an E-PL2 that was beaten in the head until it wasn't right, so if you didn't like the E-PL2, you really won't enjoy its handicapped sibling.