Mamiya Leaf's new Credo platform is available in three models with resolutions of 40, 60 and 80 megapixels. All three feature a large high-resolution 1.15-megapixel multi-touch screen "with excellent rendition of 16 million colours for quick and easy verification of focus and tonal accuracy," says Mamiya Leaf.

The digital backs also use a new dual-core microprocessor for improved performances, and a new "intuitive graphical user interface that offers easy navigation." Mamiya Leaf has also implemented the new FireWire 800 and USB3 protocols to deliver fasts image transfer speeds.

The company, which is controlled by Phase One, claims to have built the Credo platform from the ground-up for "effective shooting both indoors and out." It says: "Leaf Credo delivers high-resolution Live View functionality for precise focusing when shooting un-tethered. It also offers a wide viewing angle and a built-in bi-directional spirit level."

The most expensive model, which offers a resolution of 80 megapixels, uses a CCD sensor with a dynamic range of 12.5 f-stops. The 60-megapixel version of the camera has slightly larger pixels at 6.0 microns compared to 5.2 microns for the Credo 80. The Credo 40, however, offers the fastest capture speeds at 1.2 fps.

These specifications, however, are identical to Phase One's IQ series of digital backs released last year. Speaking to BJP, a Mamiya Leaf spokesman says that while both systems share the same CCD sensor, the Credo backs "required internal and external research and development and manufacturing resources."

He adds that both systems don't share the same mechanical engineering, and that the Credo backs feature an extended touch screen that provides "a new and unique user experience, since your finger never blocks the view and does not leave any marks on the display." The LCD panel area features four soft buttons and soft scrollbars, while the IQ system uses hardware-based buttons.

Mamiya Leaf also says that the GUI differs, as Credo's interface is drawn from "years of experience with the Aptus and Aptus-II lines."

All three Credo models are compatible Phase One's and Mamiya's 645 digital cameras, as well as Hasselblad's V-series and a range of cameras developed by ALPA, Arca-Swiss, Cambo, Horseman, Linhof, Rollei and Sinar using adaptors.

"Leaf Credo delivers the best price/performance ratio in the large sensor digital back market," claims Ziv Argov, marketing director at Mamiya Leaf. "Its impressive combination of high resolution image quality, ease of use, and the latest multi-touch screen LCD technologies makes the Leaf Credo digital back platform appealing for all photographers regardless of their styles."

The Leaf Credo will start shipping in June, with the Credo 40 retailing at €14,995/$19,495, the Credo 60 at €24,995/$32,495 and the Credo 80 at €29,995/$38,995.

For more information, visit www.mamiyaleaf.com.