I want a fast-to-use, quiet digital rangefinder to be used in very low light. I've used Leica rangefinders for this, but really need something quieter that works with all my Nikon gear. I'd suggest Nikon target the pro/prosumer who already has an investment in pro-grade body and lenses. I'm after a body that fits right in to the current system, like a rangefinder version of a D300 or D700. I suspect it will need an electronic shutter to achieve the quiet operation, so that might not allow the D3 sensor to be used.

So, imagine that Nikon creates a modern version of the SP rangefinder, based on the D300/D700, but with a few twists:

- True Silent Mode - use in quiet concerts, weddings, etc. I'm willing to sacrifice a lot to get this feature. And I don't mean "quieter mode", I really want SILENT. If I can't use it in a recording studio, then it misses the mark. This can be modal (turn it on or off), as long as I can switch to that mode without looking at the camera. I'm willing to accept switching modes between "full feature and non-quiet" and "quiet but fewer features".

- Non-visual controls. Basic controls should be possible to set by feel. I could be in the darkness of a concert and need to change setting without illumination. If you have to use controls that can't be set by feel, then I better be able to set them by looking in the viewfinder. Turning on a light will get me kicked out of the event, or at least remove me from the invited list.

- F-mount or mini-F mount. I'd really like to use the same lenses as the dSLRs, but I'd accept a different mount for size and performance reasons. But only if they include in the box:

- Adapter for F-mount lenses. I'm willing to accept limitations (like AF-S G only). I just want to be able to use my 17-55 f/2.8 or 24-70 f/2.8. If I can add just the body to my bag, it would be amazingly useful. I only have primes on my Leica and I know zoom lenses are a real challenge, but I see several ways to do it.

DX or FX - I'd love the D3 sensor in the camera, but frankly I'll let Nikon make the call.

1:1 viewfinder. I want to shoot with both eyes open. I want the viewfinder to mask the area outside like the D3 does when you put a DX len on. I could live with D700 style lines, but I'd not be very happy because they would be invisible in low light (unless they could light up).

CLS support when used with SB900/SB800. Not as important and the stuff above, but this would seem to be achieveable.

Mini-F mount Lenses:

Compact 50mm f1.2 lens in a mini-F mount. Hey, this is a camera for low light recording of events. I'd accept that I might have a big f/1.2 lens and a compact f/1.8, but I'll ask for it all in one package.

85mm f1.4, 35mm f1.4, 28mm f1.4. Get the drift? I'd suggest they consider taking existing glass and simply put it into the mini-F mount. And could you add the old chrome ring back? And add that little bump Leica puts on their lens. Remember, I'll be changeing lenses in darkness, so I need to be able to do this by feel. Use a blind person for testing this stuff out.

I would really really like to be able to add this body and one lens to my system, be able to use some of my existing F-mount lenses, adding other mini-F lenses as jobs/cashflow allow.

Other accessories - Please use the existing 10-pin connector, batteries, etc. It really needs to fit the system I already have.

Business Case:
If you can get this camera with a mini-F 50mm lens and F-mount adapter, I bet photojournalists and wedding photographers will go nuts. So will Canon. This camera will work in places no SLR will ever be allowed in. The existence of this camera will drive Canon users right to Nikon's pro system.

Leica has proven that there is a retro market, and I'd like to see a camera that has a next-generation SP look. Ok, smooth the corners and all that. Make if feel good in my hands. And make it jaw-dropping beautiful.

Anyone who has used a Leica rangefinder as a walkaround camera understands what this is all about.

Would you buy this camera if it cost $2500? If not, what would you be willing to pay?
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Ken Elliott
Equipment in profile.