Archive for the ‘Specifications’ Category

Atlas Sound & Vision brings Swiss Piega handmade speakers to Singapore

Friday, October 19th, 2012

Atlas has partnered with Piega to sell the Swiss handmade speakers in Singapore. The premium, precision-crafted speakers range from the entry-level TMicro 3 speakers (S$748) to the top-of-the-range MasterOne loudspeakers (S$54,648). Prices include GST.

Piega's most affordable speakers in Singapore- TMicro 3 (S$748).

Piega’s most affordable speakers in Singapore- TMicro 3 (S$748).

Made from 100% aluminium, these speakers are extruded from a 3 ton aluminium block in one production step pressed with a 7,500 tonne press machine, one of the largest in Europe.

Piega's top-of-the-range loudspeakers - MasterOne - can be had for S$54,648.

Piega’s top-of-the-range loudspeakers – MasterOne – can be had for S$54,648.

The process results in an acoustically perfect housing featuring very high cabinet stiffness due to optimised damping in relation to enclosure thickness.

Piega’s audio research team developed its own linear drive ribbon (LDR) ribbon tweeter – a 0.02mm aluminium ribbon foil that Piega claims surpasses all conventional dome tweeters.

With only 0.007 grams of moving mass, the aluminium riboon foil boasts an impressive frequency range of up to 50’00 Hz and 98 dB efficiency.

The linear impulse and frequency from these tweeters also results in high audio efficiency with little distortion and a clean decay spectrum, presenting robust and extremely clear audio.

Piega also introduced the coaxial ribbon system in 2000, enhancing the quality of its speakers to present an electrostatic-like performance coupled with a sleek, aesthetic design.

By having the membrane of the tweeter surrounded by the membrane of the midrange, both membranes are on the same plane in all three axes and have the same point as the acoustic centre.

Operating as a single point sound source, the virtually perfect pulse response fits perfectly with the advantages from the LDR ribbon tweeter.

This produces extreme audio clarity to deliver an exciting musical experience, with a natural, life-like sound that stirs the emotions for its audience.

I had a listen-in at the Winstedt showroom to both the TMicro 3 and the MasterOne. The showroom was deliberately NOT soundproofed so that customers could get a realistic idea of how the music will sound in their own homes.

The quality of music was indeed superb.

Piega from Lake Zurich

Founded in 1986 in Horgen on Lake Zurich in Switzerland, Piega has been handcrafting its loudspeakers in aluminium for over 25 years.

The speakers cater to audiophiles around the world and are known for their timeless elegance – inspired in the design studio of Hanns Wettstein and boasting extreme audio clarity with its unique coaxial ribbon system.

Since 1986, over 80,412 speakers have been handmade by 20 craftsmen working at the Piega facility on the shores of Lake Zurich.

New camera in Singapore: Samsung GALAXY Camera with Android Jelly Bean

Wednesday, October 17th, 2012

Samsung GALAXY Camera combines the image quality of dedicated compact cameras with the connectivity and apps of the smartphones.

Available in November, price TBA.

The Samsung GALAXY Camera is a camera that has the connectivities and funtionalities of a smartphone (minus voice calls).

The Samsung GALAXY Camera is a camera that has the connectivities and funtionalities of a smartphone (minus voice calls).

The GALAXY Camera made its appearance in Singapore during Samsung’s “Be Creative” gala event at the Ritz-Carlton, which also saw the debut of the GALAXY Note II LTE in Singapore.

Samsung GALAXY Camera
Megapixels 16 MP
Optical Zoom 21 x
Wide angle 23mm, F2.8
Max zoom 483mm
ISO ISO 100 – 3,200
LCD 4.77″, 308ppi, 921.6k dots, 1280×720 pixels, HD Super Clear Touch
Movie 1920 x 1080 px
OS Android 4.1, Jelly Bean
Processor 1.4GHz Quad-core
Connectivity 3G, Wi-Fi
Memory 8GB int + mem slot
Slow motion video 758 x 512 (120fps), 320×240 (30fps)
Vido output HDMI 1.4
Flash Built-in
RAW No
Image stabilisation Optical Image Stabilisation
Size /mm 128.7 x 70.8 x 19.1
Weight 300 g
Battery 1,650 mAh
Price TBA

Enjoy 21x long optical zoom and 16 megapixels, as well as WiFi/3G and the latest Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean operating system and apps.

The GALAXY Camera has a 16-megapixel 1/2.33-inch CMOS sensor with 23mm lens for wide-angle shots.

It boasts a large and vivid camera display – a 4.8” (1280 x 720 pixels, 308 ppi) HD SUPER CLEAR LCD screen.

Smartphone technology, powered by a 1.4 GHz quad-core processor, provides the Voice Control for users to manipulate functions such as ‘Zoom in’ and ‘Shoot’ through voice.

The GALAXY Camera includes a comprehensive set of 35 powerful photo editing features within the ‘Photo Wizard’ – such as the “Auto Face Calibration” feature – allowing users to edit their photos on the go.

The “Movie Wizard” allows users to create and edit expert-quality videos easily using the touch screen.

The GALAXY Camera also features ‘Smart Content Manager’, which intelligently creates folders, tags faces, and even suggests which pictures to delete when they do not come out as desired.

Internet connectivity enables users to share their photos easily on the Web.

Users can share photos simultaneously as they shoot when they use the ‘Share Shot’ feature.

The Samsung GALAXY Camera has 3G and Wi-Fi connectivity on to the Internet, as well as apps running off the latest Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean.

The Samsung GALAXY Camera has 3G and Wi-Fi connectivity on to the Internet, as well as apps running off the latest Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean.

The camera’s convenient ‘Auto Cloud Backup’ feature will automatically save photos into the cloud via Samsung’s AllShare the instant they are taken.

Infographic showing features of the Samsung GALAXY Camera.

Infographic showing features of the Samsung GALAXY Camera.

In addition to sharing photos on social networks and cloud services, users can also connect to a range of GALAXY devices including the GALAXY S III and GALAXY Note II.

In addition to the pre-installed applications from Samsung, users can browse the web and enjoy any application from Google Play or Samsung Apps stores.

‘S Suggest’ will also be able to recommend a new photo editing app or fun game to download if users are spoilt for choice.

The GALAXY Camera enables connection to 3G networks (HSPA+ 21Mbps on 850/900/1900/2100 MHz) via a micro-SIM, allowing photo sharing and browsing anywhere.

The GALAXY Camera also functions on Wi-Fi with Dual Band and Channel Bonding for extra speed.

Connectivity is supported by a 1.4GHz Cortex-A9 quad-core processor that enables fast web-browsing and multitasking, as well as high-speed image processing without significant impact on battery life (1,650 mAh).

The camera comes with 8GB internal memory, with a memory slot for additional external memory (SD card, micro SDHC, micro SDXC).

Cameras crossing into smartphone territory

Nikon launched its COOLPIX S800c back in August – with Android 2.3 and Wi-Fi connectivity.

It had 16 megapixels and 12x optical zoom.

I had mused about when a camera would get 3G connectivity as well.

So it is opportune that Samsung is going to deliver that in the form of GALAXY Camera in November.

The Nikon COOLPIX S800c runs Android 2.3 and has Wi-Fi connectivity.

The Nikon COOLPIX S800c runs Android 2.3 and has Wi-Fi connectivity.

The 3G-capable GALAXY Camera will have the same 16 megapixels but will come with 21x optical zoom and Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean.

What’s next?

A camera that you can press to your cheeks to call someone?

Lytro camera now available in Singapore – introduces manual controls

Tuesday, October 16th, 2012

Lytro cameras have been launched in Singapore. RRP is S$648 (8GB) and S$778 (16GB). Lytro has also introduced manual controls in its cameras.

The Lytro light field camera is now available in Singapore, with manual controls, and in Red Hot, Electric Blue or Graphite. RRP is S$648 (8GB) and S$778 (16GB).

The Lytro light field camera is now available in Singapore, with manual controls, and in Red Hot, Electric Blue or Graphite. RRP is S$648 (8GB) and S$778 (16GB).

The Lytro camera captures all the light traveling in every direction in a scene.

“Manual controls give Lytro photographers the opportunity to take control of the exposure in a scene,” said Eric Cheng, Lytro’s director of photography.

The camera enables photographers to refocus a picture after it’s taken, so that different subjects in the photo can be brought into focus for creative composition.

These living pictures can be shared online with friends and family.

Lytro, creator of the world’s first consumer light field camera, also announced the introduction of manual controls.

These will ship with new cameras purchased, and as a free firmware update for existing customers.

With these easy-to-use manual controls, Lytro photographers can take even more creative pictures in a wide variety of conditions – from low light settings to high-speed subjects.

The new controls are:

  • Shutter Speed – By manually controlling the shutter speed, Lytro photographers can keep the shutter open longer to capture living pictures in dark conditions. The maximum shutter speed is 8 seconds and the minimum is 1/250 second.
  • ISO Sensitivity – Controlling ISO gives Lytro photographers more ways to take creative living pictures in a variety of lighting conditions, from low-light concerts and restaurants to brightly lit soccer fields and amusement parks. The ISO range is 80 (min) to 3200 (max).
  • Neutral Density (ND) Filter – When in full manual mode, Lytro photographers can turn on the ND Filter to adjust the amount of light captured in extremely bright settings.
  • Auto Exposure (AE) Lock – Lytro photographers can lock the auto exposure while changing the composition of a picture in a scene.

You can view some sample pictures shot using manual controls here.

The Lytro camera is available from today in the following retail locations in Singapore.

  • Challenger Store (Funan)
  • EpiCentre (313@Somerset)
  • Parisilk Electronics & Computers (Holland Village)
  • South Asia Computer (Funan)
  • SONG Brothers (Sim Lim Square)
  • Sprint-Cass Duty-Free Shops (Singapore Changi Airport, Terminal 2 & 3)

 

Retail prices for Olympus PEN Lite E-PL5

Monday, October 15th, 2012

Olympus has released the Recommended Retail Prices for the new Olympus PEN Lite E-PL5 for Singapore. Two options are available – a Single Lens Kit (S$1,098) and a Double Zoom Kit (S$1,348).

The Olympus PEN Lite E-PL5 body comes in Black, White, or Silver and comes with either a single lens or two lenses.

The Olympus PEN Lite E-PL5 body comes in Black, White, or Silver and comes with either a single lens or two lenses.

The micro four thirds mirrorless interchangeable lens PEN Lite E-PL5 was first announced at Photokina 2012 in Cologne in mid September, together with the STYUS XZ-2 flagship camera (RRP to be announced later).

The RRP kit options for the Olympus PEN Lite E-PL5 are listed below:

Option 1: Single Lens Kit (S$1,098)

  • Body (Silver, Black or White)
  • M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 IIR

Option 2: Double Zoom Kit (S$1,348)

  • Body (Silver, Black or White)
  • M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 IIR
  • M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 40-150mm f4.0-5.6 R

New Windows 8 computer lineup from HP

Friday, October 12th, 2012

With the release of Microsoft Windows 8, HP has lined up a range of computers running the new operating system – from All-in-One desktops to notebooks – and two tablets!

HP has lined up a wide range of Windows 8 computers - from desktop AiOs and notebooks to its two new tablets.

HP has lined up a wide range of Windows 8 computers – from desktop AiOs and notebooks to its two new tablets.

Following its aborted foray into tablets last year (with the webOS-based TouchPad), HP will be launching not one but two tablets, based on Windows 8 – the HP ENVY x2 and the HP ElitePad 900.

Both will be available later this year and in January 2013 respectively. Below are some of the computers showcased during the HP’s “A Life Connected” event.

HP ENVY x2
HP ENVY x2Powerful and ultrathin hybrid notebook PC, with a detachable screen that becomes a full tablet when separated from the keyboard.

Ultra slim and lightweight, the docking mechanism has a seamless magnetic latch that smoothly guides the tablet into place.

Comes with Beats Audio for a rich, audio experience.

Available in late 2012. Price S$1,099.

HP ElitePad 900
HP ElitePad 900The HP ElitePad 900 is HP’s premium thin and light Windows 8 tablet, designed for business.

Consumer-inspired design, and precision-crafted with quality materials like Corning Gorilla Glass 2 and sleek contoured edges.

Unique, productivity-enhancing ecosystem of elegantly designed Smart Jackets and other accessories.

Available in late January 2013. Price TBA.

Update (3 May 2013): The HP ElitePad 900 is now available in Singapore for S$1,099 (32GB SSD) and S$1,299 (64GB SSD).

HP ENVY TouchSmart Ultrabook 4
HP ENVY TouchSmart Ultrabook 4The HP ENVY TouchSmart Ultrabook 4 brings the intuitive power of touch to a 14-inch Ultrabook format with up to 8 hours of battery life.

Powerful performance and modern, metallic good looks. Comes with Beats Audio and a booming subwoofer.

Available in late 2012 for S$1,399.

HP Pavilion Sleekbook 14 & Sleekbook 15
HP Pavilion Sleekbook 14 & Sleekbook 15The HP Pavilion Sleekbook PCs provide the performance and easy applications that consumers need every day, in ultrathin 14-inch and 15.6-inch packages.

Available on October 26:

  • Sleekbook14 (AMD): S$699
  • Sleekbook14 (Intel i5): S$999
  • Sleekbook15: S$1,049
HP ENVY 23 & ENVY 20 TouchSmart AiO PC
HP ENVY 23 & ENVY 20 TouchSmart AiO PCThe HP ENVY 23-inch and 20-inch consumer AiO PCs are the newest in the ENVY line and feature the latest touch technology in a one-cord solution with space-saving small footprint.

It is capable of sensing up to 10 fingers on the screen, so you can use both hands to play games, type or touch the screen.

Available in October:

  • HP ENVY 23: S$1,599
  • HP ENVY 20: S$1,199
HP Pavilion 20 AiO PC
HP Pavilion 20 AiO PCThe new HP Pavilion 20 is a powerful 20-inch non-touch AiO PC built for value-conscious consumers.

Available in October for S$899.

Sony showcases new VAIO Windows 8 notebooks in Singapore

Thursday, October 11th, 2012

In the run up to Windows 8 official release on October 26, Sony has revealed its Fall lineup of Intel-based VAIO notebooks running on the new operating system – including the VAIO Duo 11 slate that comes with sliding keyboard.

Available from November 2012. VAIO Duo 11 will be sold at S$1,999 (i5-3317U processor) and S$2,699 (i7-3517U). Prices for the other notebooks TBA.

Sony's new lineup of VAIO notebooks is helmed by the VAIO Duo 11, an Ultrabook slate with a slide-out keyboard and stylus pen; weighing only 1.3 kg and 17.85 mm thin. 11.6-inch display and available in November 2012 at S$1,999 (i5 CPU) and S$2,699 (i7 CPU).

Sony’s new lineup of VAIO notebooks is helmed by the VAIO Duo 11, an Ultrabook slate with a slide-out keyboard and stylus pen; weighing only 1.3 kg and 17.85 mm thin. 11.6-inch display and available in November 2012 at S$1,999 (i5 CPU) and S$2,699 (i7 CPU).

Sony showcased its new VAIO lineup for the Fall at the Red Dot Museum in Singapore today.

New S Series models come in 13.3" and 15.5" screens, i5 and i7 CPUs and comes with new colour Red.

New S Series models come in 13.3″ and 15.5″ screens, i5 and i7 CPUs and comes with new colour Red. 1.69 kg, 22.8 mm thin.

The new notebooks run on the latest Intel* chips and the new Windows 8 operating system, centering user experience around Touch interactivity.

These sleekly designed machines either have a 10-point multi-touch screen, or come with touchpads that enable users to utilise the touch interface of Windows 8.

As an electronics giant with a full range of electronic products, Sony demonstrated how the VAIO computers could be tightly integrated with other electronic gadgets in its stable.

These include large DLNA TV displays, cameras, video cameras, and Android smartphones.

Two new 14"E14P Series notebooks (i5 & i7). Note the soft-edged design with no bezels.

Two new 14″E14P Series notebooks (i5 & i7). Note the soft-edged design with no bezels.

A VAIO user can therefore download, edit and share photos/videos taken with a camera or smartphone and view them either on the Web or on a large TV.

Two new 13.3" VAIO T Series models (i5 & i7 CPU) using premium materials like  magnesium and aluminium.

Two new 13.3″ VAIO T Series models (i5 & i7 CPU) using premium materials like magnesium and aluminium.

The VAIO Duo 11 ultrabook can function as a flat slate but has a slide-out keyboard to become a laptop.

The new S Series models  has 5.5 hr battery life (additional 11 hr with optional extended battery) and a Dynamic Hybrid Graphics System that uses two graphics processors.

The two new T Series Ultrabooks has either SSD or hybrid HDD/SSD storage.

* In addition to the two new VAIO E14P Series models, the lineup also includes the VAIO E 11” and 15” series which are equipped with 3rd generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, or the AMD Radeon processor.

New software: Adobe Photoshop Elements 11 & Premiere Elements 11

Tuesday, September 25th, 2012

Adobe introduces the latest versions of the photo and video editing software with revamped user interfaces that makes editing, organising and sharing easier.

Available as stand-alone products (S$131 each), Photoshop Elements 11 and Premiere Elements 11 can also be purchased together as a bundle (S$197).

Check the buying guide for Adobe Photoshop Elements 11, Premiere Elements 11 or the bundle.

Check the buying guide for Adobe Photoshop Elements 11, Premiere Elements 11 or the bundle.

Photoshop Elements 11 offers a complete solution for editing, organizing and sharing photo creations while Premiere Elements 11 offers easy creation of engaging home movies with professional flair.

Adobe Photoshop Elements 11 and Adobe Premiere Elements 11 software for Windows and Mac are now available here.

Both solutions are available for Windows and Mac.

Powerful, intuitive tools in Photoshop Elements 11

Make photos look their best with editing options that offer virtually everything from quick fixes to a number of creative possibilities.

  • A completely refreshed, user-friendly interface featuring the same engine as Adobe Photoshop – includes easily-navigated Quick, Guided and Expert editing modes; one-click options; a helpful Action bar; and big, bold icons to help users get the most from their shots.
  • Adobe Photoshop Elements 11 (S$131)Organise photos based on people, places (via Google maps geo-tagging) or events easily and intuitively.
  • New Guided Edits make pro-level effects like tilt-shift, vignettes and high and low-key easy to create.
  • New filters – Comic, Graphic Novel and Pen & Ink – inspire creativity by turning photos into stunning illustrations.
  • Intelligent Photoshop technology makes it easy to extract objects from different photos.
  • Easily share photos via email, Facebook, YouTube, Vimeo and more.

Easy pro-quality videos with Premiere Elements 11

Create attractive, pro-level videos with automated moviemaking options to take the work out of editing.

  • An entirely new and improved user interface including many of the same updates found in Photoshop Elements 11.
  • Adobe Premiere Elements 11 (S$131)Add polish with a wide range of great-looking effects, transitions, themes, titles, disc menus, and professional-level effects and sound.
  • Give videos Hollywood movie styles with FilmLooks; easily apply slow and fast motion effects; dial-in colors with slider controls; effortlessly integrate blends for seamless transitions; and make adjustments with Quick Presets.
  • Show off finished creations with integrated video sharing on Vimeo.

SingTel launches new deF!ND and the Apple iPhone 5

Friday, September 21st, 2012

20-year-old Liu Ting Ting was the first customer to purchase an iPhone 5 from SingTel this morning.

Besides selling the iPhone 5, SingTel also launched a new version of deF!ND – its free mobile personal assistant app that integrates local information and enables bookings of services on the move.

Early-bird customers at SingTel's  iPhone 5 launch.

Early-bird customers at SingTel’s iPhone 5 launch.

SingTel has organised a three-day launch event for the iPhone 5 starting this morning at 8am at Marina Bay Sands, Exhibition Hall D, Basement 2.

Liu Ting Ting  jumping with joy.

Liu Ting Ting jumping with joy.

A record 68,000 customers registered their interest over six days to purchase iPhone 5 from SingTel.

SingTel’s price plans can be found at the end of this post.

The 10,000 appointment slots to purchase iPhone 5 at our launch event were snapped-up within one and a half hours.

The first customer to purchase iPhone 5 is Ms Liu Ting Ting (age 20, student).

She had arrived last night (Thurs 20 Sep) at 8:30pm even though she had a confirmed appointment to purchase iPhone 5 this morning.

Liu Ting Ting with Allan Lew (R) and Yuen Kuan Moon (L) from SingTel.

Liu Ting Ting with Allan Lew (R) and Yuen Kuan Moon (L) from SingTel.

She chose to camp overnight in order to be the first to get the phone.

SingTel also unveiled a new version of deF!ND, which features Singapore’s own voice-activated personal assistant, often dubbed the “Singapore Siri”.

First launched in November last year, the new version now features a significantly expanded database of more than 100,000 reviews on more than 15,000 eateries from HungryGoWhere, Singapore’s popular food website.

Users can quickly and easily browse through recommendations of highly-rated restaurants and hawkers nearest to their current location.

SingTel deF!ND can be downloaded free from the Apple App Store and Google Play store.

SingTel deF!ND can be downloaded free from the Apple App Store and Google Play store.

deF!ND is now able to make intelligent movie recommendations based on users’ personal preferences and display screening times at GV, Shaw and Cathay cinemas nearest to their current location.

deF!ND is a free app iOS and Android app from SingTel.A virtual barometer predicts the user’s level of interest in all movies that are currently airing.

The app allows users to select seats and charge ticket purchases to their credit cards.

With deF!ND, users can also book taxis, locate ATMs, medical clinics and other essential amenities, find the best shopping deals and get updates on local events.

The app draws from SingTel’s popular inSing.com database of more than 170,000 business listings.

By the way, SingTel’s price plans is listed below.

(more…)

New Android smartphone: LG Optimus G, its new flagship LTE device

Tuesday, September 18th, 2012

LG has launched the Optimus G in Seoul, Korea today. Available in Korea next week and in key global markets in October.

The Optimus G is LG's new flagship smartphone model, with 1.5 GHz Quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro processor.

The Optimus G is LG’s new flagship smartphone model, with 1.5 GHz Quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro processor.

LG Optimus G
OS Android 4.0.4 (ICS)
Screen 4.7″ WXGA, True HD IPSPlus
Resolution 1280 x 768
Battery 2,100 mAh, sealed
Processor Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro processor with 1.5 GHz Quad-Core Krait CPUs
Features LTE, NFC
Camera Rear: 13 MP*
Front: 1.3 MP
Video 1080p Full HD
Memory RAM: 2 GB
Int: 32 GB
Ext: Nil
Size /mm 131.9 x 68.9 x 8.45
Weight 145 g
Price TBA
* In certain markets, the phone could be shipped with an 8 MP camera.

The Android 4.0.4 (Ice Cream Sandwich) phone has a camera that shoots an amazing 13 megapixels while the sealed battery is rated at 2,100 mAh.

The Optimus G has a 4.7-inch WXGA True HD IPS Plus (1280 x 768 pixels) screen and is only 8.45mm thin.

It is both LTE and NFC capable.

LG’s new flagship smartphone leverages the powerful 1.5 GHz Quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro CPU to provide speedy performance and a sleek user experience.

LG boasts that the Optimus G goes beyond multi-taking into “cross-tasking” of activities without limitations.

According to LG: whereas multi-tasking applies to running various applications at the same time, cross-tasking applies to complex tasks that can be completed simultaneously without having to compromise other tasks.

Some new UX features that will be included into the Optimus G to showcase its cross-tasking and engaging capabilities are listed below.

(more…)

New Olympus PEN E-PL5, STYLUS XZ-2 cameras and lenses for Photokina 2012

Monday, September 17th, 2012

Olympus has unveiled two new cameras and three new lenses for Photokina 2012 (18-23 September). At the same time, it is consolidating all its compact cameras under the new STYLUS branding.

None of the pricing is available yet.

Update (15 October, 2012):

The Recommended Retail Price of the Olympus PEN Lite E-PL5 has just been announced.

Option 1: Single Lens Kit (S$1,098)

  • Body (Silver, Black or White)
  • M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 IIR

Option 2: Double Zoom Kit (S$1,348)

  • Body (Silver, Black or White)
  • M.ZUIKO DIGITAL 14-42mm f3.5-5.6 IIR
  • M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 40-150mm f4.0-5.6 R
The new Olympus STYLUS XZ-2 with its selection of accessories. The PEN Lite E-PL5 has its own set of chic accessories.

The new Olympus STYLUS XZ-2 with its selection of accessories. The PEN Lite E-PL5 has its own set of chic accessories.

Photokina 2012 begins tomorrow and ends on Sunday. Below is a summary of the slew of cameras and lenses that Olympus has lined up for the biennial trade show in Cologne, Germany.

PEN Lite E-PL5 micro four thirds MIL camera
PEN Lite E-PL5 micro four thirds MIL cameraSkipping the inauspicious number “4” in the Japanese language, Olympus introduces the E-PL5, the successor to the E-PL3.Available in October 2012 in Silver, Black or White.

Features:

PEN Lite E-PL5 micro four thirds MIL camera

  • 16.05 megapixels
  • Live MOS Sensor
  • FAST AF
  • Touch AF Shutter
  • TruePic VI image engine
  • 12 Art Filters including new “Water Colour” filter
STYLUS XZ-2 compact camera
STYLUS XZ-2 compact cameraThe first member of the new STYLUS line, the XZ-2 is the successor to my favourite compact, the XZ-1.As the latest member of the STYLUS X series, the XZ-2 will be the flagship of the Olympus compact cameras.Available in November 2012 in Black.Features:

STYLUS XZ-2 compact camera

  • 12 megapixels
  • f1.8-2.5 bright lens
  • 4x Optical zoom
  • 28mm wide angle
  • Touch AF Shutter
  • Swivel screen
  • 11 Art Filters
  • Removable grip
  • Hybrid control ring around the lens
M.Zuiko DIGITAL ED 12mm f2.0 Limited Edition Black Kit Lens
M.Zuiko DIGITAL ED 12mm f2.0 Limited Edition Black Kit LensThis lens will have a limited worldwide release of 3,000 sets, with 50 allocated to Singapore.Available in early October 2012.Features:

  • Dual Super Aspherical lens element
  • ZERO (Zuiko Extra-low Reflection Optical) coating
  • Fine-textured metallic outer finish
  • Snapshot focusing mechanism for pan-focus shooting
M.Zuiko DIGITAL 17mm f1.8 Lens
M.Zuiko DIGITAL 17mm f1.8 LensWith product launch scheduled in the first half of 2013, the detailed product specifications are not determined yet.It will have the same snapshot focusing mechanism from the M.Zuiko DIGITAL ED 12mm f2.0 lens.It will also feature the MSC (Movie & Still Compatible) mechanism for fast, quiet autofocusing.
M.Zuiko DIGITAL ED 60mm f2.8 Macro Lens
M.Zuiko DIGITAL ED 60mm f2.8 Macro LensThis lens promises high resolution and contrast, as well as the ability to shoot close-up with 1x magnification.MSC mechanism for fast, quiet autofocusing.Dust and splash proof construction for secure shooting under poor conditions.Enhanced control with focus limit switch and indicator window.

Available from early October 2012.