The value of the 16:9 aspect ratio becomes obvious quickly. The format is nearly cinematographic, and opens up a world of possibilities when framing a shot. With it, the camera is able to record a view that is much closer to what we experience than other aspect ratios. 16:9 images convey a sense of space, and are able to capture a view that is closer to our perception.

If this camera has any faults, it would be only that I wish image quality were slightly better. Yes, I know I said the camera produced very good images, but on the next version I’d like to see Panasonic tone down the color saturation a bit while improving the camera’s dynamic range. Noise is also still a problem at all ISO settings, especially at ISO 800 and 1,600, but it’s much better overall than on the LX1 thanks to the LSI Venus Engine III.

If you’re shooting at ISO 100 and not making huge prints then I recommend the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2. If you’ve got the patience to shoot in RAW mode, you’ll likely be more satisfied with the photos you get out of the camera. If you want to run around shooting at ISO 800 or making 11×14 inch prints, I’d probably pass on this camera.

Physically, this camera tends toward bulky in an era when digital cameras are getting sleeker, smaller and lighter all the time. And its large Leica lens adds visual heft, making it appear heavier than it actually is. In contrast, cameras like the Nikon Coolpix S9 are embedding smaller lenses inside the camera body.

Megapixels make great headlines, but the LX2 suffers from noise and smudging even at low ISOs. That’s a shame, because otherwise this is a great camera. With a better-balanced sensor (fewer pixels, better quality) and a more operational speed, it would be hard to fault.

The optically stabilized Panasonic LX2 certainly has a lot to offer consumers; unfortunately, its $499 price tag marks it as a niche camera, intended for those with a much more expensive plasma display hanging from their living room wall. For those who can easily afford the $500 price tag however, the camera will likely live up to expectations.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2 is a good choice for an enthusiast looking for a powerful camera that can fit into a jacket pocket.

I have mixed feelings about this new Lumix model. While offering some awesome features, and a wealth of exposure controls, the higher noise and poor movie mode quality is disappointing. And, with an MSRP of US$499.95, it’s also a bit overpriced. Especially when you consider some of the alternative 10-megapixel models, like Canon’s PowerShot A640 which can be had for about $100 less.

You’re left with a striking-looking camera with decent image quality. But its main selling point — the widescreen sensor — is more of a potentially interesting gimmick than a must-have. And, with the Canon Ixus 60 weighing in at over $250 less, it’s difficult to recommend the Lumix in spite of some redeeming features.

The Panasonic Lumix LX2 is rather disappointing, perhaps partly because of the success of its predecessor, but mostly because of all that is special about this camera. The LX2 features a wide-aspect sensor for producing 16:9 images and 16:9 HD videos. Its lens, when combined with its wide-aspect sensor, features a 4X wide-angle zoom. In 4:3 and 3:2 mode, the zoom is not wide-angle anymore though. The downfall of this camera comes from its high image noise.