First announced in September last year, the Leica S-System redefines the professional DSLR class with a custom 37.5-megapixel, 30 x 45 mm sensor built into a 35mm-sized body.

So quoth DPReview concerning Leica’s new S2, the first body in their unique S system line-up. Announced formally this week, with pricing and everything, the S system is poised to slot in above top-end DSLRs like Nikon’s D3x and Canon’s 1Ds Mk III, and somewhere under the likes of Mamiya and Hasselblad (more in using the familiar operations of 35mm over the nature of medium format than anything to do with expected and promised quality.) In short, it aims to redefine what a studio camera is and should be.

It’s also well in keeping the Leica tradition of making premium products with the price to match, with the body coming in at $23,000. Also announced at launch are four focal lengths of lens: 70mm f2.5 (which seems to be the ‘standard’ focal length for this new platform), 120mm f2.5, 180mm f3.5, and 35mm f2.5. All four are available in standard flavor, and optionally with a central shutter for a spot more. They start at around $4,500 and weave their way up from there.

Other sundry accessories like a battery grip and a charger have been announced. If the S System piques your interest, give us a ring at 1-800-726-5544 and ask for mail-order to get on our list for it.