French startup Pixii has been developing digital rangefinder cameras with M-bayonet for several years, but until now, they’ve only been available with APS-C sensors. A unique feature is that Pixii cameras lack a monitor, instead utilizing a smartphone for image viewing via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Pixii Max with BSI-CMOS Sensor
The Pixii Max continues this design philosophy but now incorporates a full-frame sensor (BSI-CMOS with 24.5 megapixels) boasting an ISO sensitivity range of 100 to 25,600. Notably, it features a black-and-white RAW mode designed to produce high-quality monochrome images.
As before, Leica lenses can be attached through the L bayonet, and focusing is done manually. The Pixii Max’s optical viewfinder displays bright frames for focal lengths of 75 mm, 50 mm, and 35 mm. Complementing the absence of a monitor, the camera also lacks a mechanical shutter. The electronic shutter enables exposure times ranging from 1/32,000 to 2 seconds. Additional features include internal memory (no memory cards are supported) and a USB-C port for charging the battery.
The Pixii Max weighs 480 g.
Image: Pixii
Availability and Prices
The Pixii Max is now available for pre-order with 32 GB of storage for approximately 4,000 euros and with 128 GB for around 4,250 euros (prices excluding VAT). Delivery is scheduled for October. Owners of the APS-C model A2572+ can purchase a hardware upgrade to the Pixii Max for 1,500 euros, with availability slated for September.
Technical Data for the Pixii Max
Pixii Max
Connected digital camera with rangefinder viewfinder
Model A3410
Viewfinder
Optical viewfinder with coinciding rangefinder (x0.67 magnification)
Wide-angle field of view
High refractive index optical formula
Extended rangefinder base
Independent LED backlit frame lines for standard prime lenses: 35mm, 50mm, 75mm (more focal lengths subject to change)
Exposure indicators
Dynamic information display
Automatic parallax correction
Automatic LED intensity adjustment
Interchangeable eyepiece, with optional diopter correction lenses
Sensor
35mm full size image format
24.5MP BSI-CMOS sensor
6064×4040 active pixels, 5.94µm pixel pitch
Electronic shutter, speeds from 2s to 1/32000
12-14bits programmable AD converter
Programmable gain from 0 to +30dB
Native gain: ISO 100 up to ISO 25600
Standard Bayer color filter
Optical stack with micro-lenses, no low-pass filter, IR filter Native monochrome mode
Output: Digital Negative (DNG), Mono DNG or JPEG format
Lens
Interchangeable lens system
Leica-M compatible lens mount
Manual focus and aperture control
Dark chamber designed to fit collapsible lenses
Compatible with M39/LTM lenses via adapter (not included)
Body
Dual-block machined aluminium body
ISO accessory shoe
Tripod socket A ¼,
Lugs for carrying strap
Dimensions : 138x79x33mm
Weight: 480g (incl. battery)
Finish: space gray, matte black
Controls
Manual shutter speed selector
Automatic speed mode
2 stage shutter button: exposure metering/lock and shutter release
Top panel OLED control screen
In-finder control screen for settings and menu control
Quick ISO selection, white-balance and supplementary settings via integrated menu
System
64-bit quad-core ARM SoC
Image co-processor
Wi-Fi 802.11ac connectivity
Bluetooth LE 5.1
Internal storage: 32GB up to 256GB
USB-C connector, dual-role
Power
Li-ion 7.2V battery, 1080mAh capacity, model NP-FW50
Integrated USB charger
Programmable suspend and power off timer
Capacity
32GB capacity can store regarding 840 DNG images or more than 1700 JPEG files.
64GB capacity can store regarding 1680 DNG images or 3400 JPEG files.
128GB capacity can store regarding 3350 DNG images or 6800 JPEG files.
Note: JPEG files weight regarding 18MB on average but this can vary depending on the scene and ability to compress. DNG files are not compressed and store RAW images without information loss.
The Pixii Max: A Full-Frame Digital Rangefinder Camera Redefining Photography
The Pixii Max is a revolutionary digital rangefinder camera that pushes the boundaries of photography. This full-frame camera, boasting a 24.5-megapixel BSI-CMOS sensor, is a dream come true for photographers seeking a minimalist and intuitive shooting experience.
Unique Features of the Pixii Max
The Pixii Max stands out from the crowd with its distinct features:
- Full-frame Sensor: Embracing the world of full-frame photography, the Pixii Max provides exceptional image quality and detail, exceeding the capabilities of its APS-C predecessor.
- Black and White RAW Mode: This dedicated mode promises exceptionally high-quality monochrome images that capture the nuances of light and shadow with precision.
- No Monitor, No Memory Cards: The Pixii Max embraces a unique approach by eliminating the traditional screen and memory card. Shooters connect their smartphone via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for image viewing and storage. This minimalist design focuses attention on the photographic process.
- Manual Focus: Embracing the classic approach, the Pixii Max is designed for manual focusing, encouraging a deliberate and thoughtful style of shooting.
- Electronic Shutter: The Pixii Max utilizes an electronic shutter, offering speeds from 1/32,000 to 2 seconds, allowing photographers to capture fleeting moments and experiment with long exposures.
The Power of the Pixii Max: Unlocking Creative Potential
The Pixii Max isn’t just a camera; it’s a tool for creative expression. Here’s how its features empower photographers:
- Embrace the Simplicity: The absence of a monitor encourages a more mindful approach to photography, forcing photographers to focus on composition, light, and their subjects.
- Embrace the Past, Embrace the Future: The Pixii Max seamlessly blends classic rangefinder aesthetics with modern technology, providing a timeless shooting experience.
- Exceptional Image Quality: The full-frame sensor, combined with the black and white RAW mode, lets photographers capture high-resolution images with exceptional detail and dynamic range.
- Unleash Your Inner Artist: The manual focus and exposure controls offer unparalleled control over the photographic process, allowing photographers to refine their vision and make creative decisions.
Pixii Max: Technical Specifcations
Viewfinder:
- Optical viewfinder with coinciding rangefinder (x0.67 magnification)
- Wide-angle field of view
- High refractive index optical formula
- Extended rangefinder base
- Independent LED backlit frame lines for standard prime lenses: 35mm, 50mm, 75mm (more focal lengths subject to change)
- Exposure indicators
- Dynamic information display
- Automatic parallax correction
- Automatic LED intensity adjustment
- Interchangeable eyepiece, with optional diopter correction lenses
Sensor:
- 35mm full-size image format
- 24.5MP BSI-CMOS sensor
- 6064×4040 active pixels, 5.94µm pixel pitch
- Electronic shutter, speeds from 2s to 1/32000
- 12-14bits programmable AD converter
- Programmable gain from 0 to +30dB
- Native gain: ISO 100 up to ISO 25600
- Standard Bayer color filter
- Optical stack with micro-lenses, no low-pass filter, IR filter
- Native monochrome mode
- Output: Digital Negative (DNG), Mono DNG or JPEG format
Lens:
- Interchangeable lens system
- Leica-M compatible lens mount
- Manual focus and aperture control
- Dark chamber designed to fit collapsible lenses
- Compatible with M39/LTM lenses via adapter (not included)
Body:
- Dual-block machined aluminium body
- ISO accessory shoe
- Tripod socket A ¼
- Lugs for carrying strap
- Dimensions: 138x79x33mm
- Weight: 480g (incl. battery)
- Finish: space gray, matte black
Controls:
- Manual shutter speed selector
- Automatic speed mode
- 2-stage shutter button: exposure metering/lock and shutter release
- Top panel OLED control screen
- In-finder control screen for settings and menu control
- Quick ISO selection, white-balance and supplementary settings via integrated menu
System:
- 64-bit quad-core ARM SoC
- Image co-processor
- Wi-Fi 802.11ac connectivity
- Bluetooth LE 5.1
- Internal storage: 32GB up to 256GB
- USB-C connector, dual-role
Power:
- Li-ion 7.2V battery, 1080mAh capacity, model NP-FW50
- Integrated USB charger
- Programmable suspend and power off timer
Capacity:
| Storage Capacity | Approximate Storage |
|---|---|
| 32GB | 840 DNG images or 1700 JPEG files |
| 64GB | 1680 DNG images or 3400 JPEG files |
| 128GB | 3350 DNG images or 6800 JPEG files |
Note: JPEG files weigh regarding 18MB on average, but this can vary depending on the scene and compression. DNG files are uncompressed and store RAW images without information loss.
Availability and Pricing:
The Pixii Max is now available for pre-order with 32GB of storage for around €4,000 and with 128GB for around €4,250 (prices excluding VAT). Delivery is scheduled for October 2024. Anyone who owns the APS-C model A2572+ can purchase a hardware upgrade to the Pixii Max for €1,500, scheduled to be available in September.
The Pixii Max is a camera that redefines the photographic experience, offering a blend of timeless aesthetics, innovative technology, and the freedom to focus on the creative process. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, the Pixii Max invites you to explore a new world of possibilities in the realm of photography.
