Sony has announced the RX1R – a premium full-frame compact that’s designed to sit alongside its sister model, the Sony RX1. The model’s ‘R’ suffix denotes an improvement in resolution – something that’s been achieved by adopting the RX1‘s 24.3MP sensor, while removing the optical low-pass filter that’s typically located in front of the sensor.

By removing the optical low-pass filter (commonly used to to suppress unwanted moire patterns and colour artefacts), the Sony RX1R is claimed to capture finer detail, with no signs of blurring or dispersion. To compensate for the optical low-pass filter’s removal, Sony say the RX1R’s processing functions have also been reworked to maintain optimal image sharpness without compromising the performance of the Carl Zeiss f/2 lens or the 24.3MP sensor.

Without an optical low-pass filter to minimise the effects of Moire, the original Sony RX1 will remain the first choice for architectural photographers, or those who regularly shoot subjects with repeating patterns. Photographers shooting subjects that aren’t likely to be affected by Moire could benefit from the extra detail the RX1R is claimed to deliver.

There are subtle differences between the RX1 and the RX1R in terms of design. Both share the same weight and dimensions, however the latter features support for an optional stereo microphone – a popular demand from videographers who’d like to record the very best audio.

In addition, the RX1R is fully compatible with Sony’s TRILUMINOS colour technology that’s claimed to offer richer and more natural colours when viewing stills and video on that  Sony Bravia televisions that feature a TRILUMINOS display.

Pricing and Availability

The Sony RX1R is expected to available from August. It’ll be sold alongside the Sony RX1 at the same price – £2600. You can read more about the RX1 and how it performed on test by reading our Sony RX1 review.