RT Panther
All-Pro
Used at my local brick n' mortar store......
Strangely enough it has been heavily discounted in The Netherlands for quite some time already, with current lowest price of 399 euro (around 490 USD). The GR on the other hand remains pretty constant in price over here.
They don't ship this normal sized camera to Australia.
The rumors all strongly suggest new versions of both this and the GR built around the 24mp chip used in the Nikon D5300 (I think). Maybe a tilt screen and/or built in EVF. The current A is so damn perfect for me that I don't think I'd upgrade for more mega-pickles. Maybe if they improve a few other details, or if I don't like the new one maybe I'll buy another old one for when the first one eventually bites the dust. Although it's a really robust little camera - I've abused the hell out of mine for close to two years now and it's not showing any signs of use, let alone wear, yet...
-Ray
I did think myself that 24Mp sensor is a more likely upgrade rather than FF.
At times I think I could use a bit more res, although my prints don't really seem to need more. - Its only when pixel peeping you think you do.
I'd be in on a 24Mpixel version GR or A if for no other reason but to explore if its for me.
I tend to keep the "old version in case of breakage or loss anyway.
There has been some want / banter of a B/W native version of either a GR or A. I suspect its more wishful thinking.
Interesting you mention the likely hood of the D5300 sensor. I'm off to look at some D5300 images with 28mm equivalent on it.
... people with tiny fingers or those who think small cameras are cool should know that prices like this do not last. http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00BOZ1XA6/sco-us-20
Does the Coolpix A have something like the crop modes of the Ricoh GR (for 35mm and 47mm)?
Since I don't see myself using only a 28mm that's an interesting feature (for me). In regards to the crop modes, a potentially updated version (with 24mp) might be a slightly better option?