Lumix DMC-L1 will be available beginning early September in the U.S.

Panasonic Corporation of North America (NYSE: MC) today announced the availability of its first digital single-lens reflex (SLR) camera with an interchangeable lens, the DMC-L1, in the United States. The camera will be available beginning early September for a suggested retail price of $1,999. The camera comes equipped with a LEICA D VARIO-ELMARIT lens featuring the industry's first optical image stabilization system - MEGA O.I.S - designed specifically for the Leica lens.

"With the DMC-L1, we confirm Panasonic's position as a leader in the imaging category," noted Rich Campbell, Director of the Imaging Group for Panasonic. "In this camera, we have incorporated today's most advanced digital technologies while maintaining the attractive look and operating feel of the traditional film camera. The DMC-L1 is the flagship model in our digital camera line. It delivers clear, detailed, beautiful imaging, free of unwanted digital characteristics, and allows advanced photographers and hobbyists alike satisfying, intuitive shooting from a digital SLR."

The DMC-L1 features a magnesium-alloy body, which closely resembles the body design of a rangefinder camera from days past, and combines an aluminum-alloy lens section to offer both high rigidity and a high-grade appearance. When combined with the shutter speed dial on the camera top and the aperture ring on the LEICA D VARIO-ELMARIT 14-50mm/F2.8-3.5 lens, the user receives easy, intuitive control of the exposure, rendering superior images.

The DMC-L1 ensures picture quality through incorporation of a Live MOS image sensor and a lens mount system that conforms to the Four Thirds™ Standard. A full-time Live View function uses a signal output directly from the Live MOS sensor, allowing users to view the same image on the LCD screen as seen by the sensor and to compose shots with greater ease and accuracy.

The camera also offers a dust reduction system that eliminates digital SLR cameras' long-standing problem of dust adhering to the sensor. Panasonic has solved this problem by equipping the DMC-L1 with a Supersonic Wave Filter system that uses supersonic vibration to shake off any dust clinging to the sensor. This simplifies camera maintenance and eliminates worries about dust entering the camera body when lenses are being changed.

By incorporating advanced imaging and power management with its Venus Engine LSI, optical image stabilization, and Leica lenses, Panasonic has created a premium line of digital cameras, now led by the DMC-L1.

June 21, 2006