The LX2 is an interesting and unique camera. Other cameras can shoot 16:9 images, but they do it as an afterthought. With the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2, it’s woven into the fabric of the camera. You only get the full 10-megapixel resolution if you shoot in 16:9 mode; if you shoot in the conventional 4:3 mode, the resolution drops to 8.5 megapixels. This digital camera is a nice follow-up to the LX1 with many additional features like an expanded ISO range and a larger widescreen-optimized LCD screen. Still, we have our reservations about this camera. Our biggest concern is the noise in the images: it looks like it might be a problem, but we’ll have to wait for our full tests. The LX1 produced awful amounts of noise even within its limited ISO range, but there is hope for the LX2. The newer model does have an improved Venus III image processor. Equipped with its freshened components and high-class features, the Panasonic Lumix LX2 sells for $499.