Just ordered an XL2 complete with 16x manual lens, FU1000 b/w viewfinder, matte box and follow focus! It won't be delivered before January, though ,because at the time beeing there are no body only kits available in Germany (or Europe, for that matter).

Anyway, I just wanted to share my exitement with you.

Wow, you took a big leap -- please let us all know how you like it when it gets there. Congratulations,

I sure will, Chris.

All (well, most) threads here on the XL2 watchdog forum convinced me that it was safe to take this leap! I'm sure I will love that beast. It's silly money, though, but the alternative was to give the money to the tax man...

dear rainer,
as you seemed to be based in Germany, will you let us in what dealer you are using? I envy those zgc.com et al stores for their dedication to prosumer video, but haven't found a supplier of similar standard in Germany yet.
Any info will be gladly appreciated.

Fritzy,

I ordered my XL2 at a local dealer in Bremen. I've been buying almost all my photographic gear there for years now and I'm very pleased with the service they provide. However, they don't do mail orders and they are not an "el cheapo" dealer either. So I don't know if it is helpful for you, but here is the name:

FOBI Foto Bischoff
Balgebrückstrasse
28199 Bremen

But wouldn't there be lots of dealers in Germany's capital??