Pixii Max brings full-frame to the stylish Leica rangefinder alternative

Updated - French camera manufacturer has just launched its first full-frame rangefinder. The Pixii Max offers a 24.5 megapixel FF sensor - and providing an alternative to its existing APS-C sensor Pixii+ camera.

The camera will be available in silver or black, with a further option of either a 32GB built-in memory or a larger 128GB image store, without the option for using a memory card. The 32GB model can store about 840 DNG photos or more than 1700 JPEG files (and the 128GB version, four times that amount). The camera does not record video.

Like its older brother, the Pixii Max offers the option of capturing true 16-bit B&W digital negatives with its Bayer color sensor. But its larger photosites, with their 5.94µm pixel pitch, promise more dynamic range and less noise than its sibling.

Commenting on the 24-megapixel resolution, Pixii founder David Barth comments "We feel that the new Max sensor is the sweet spot for contemporary cameras. We selected it for its image quality, over plain pixel count comparisons."

With the model number A3410, the Pixii Max camera offers a wide-angle viewfinder offering a field of view of a 28mm lens - but also provides frame lines for a 35mm lens. LED backlit frame lines are also provided for use with 50mm and 75mm primes.

The camera body, made from a dual block of aluminum, weighs 480g (including the battery). It uses the Leica M-mount bayonet and offers a wide choice of manual-focus optics.

The camera body is available for preorder from July 5 for 3,999 Euros  ($4,300 / £3,385) for the 32GB options, and 4249 Euros ($4,585 / £3,600) for the 128GB versions. Shipping is expected to start in September, although initial quantities are said to be limited.

See our guide to the best Leica M lenses , and our pick of the best rangefinder cameras