Can a 36MP DSLR Compete with an 18MP Leica M Monochrom?

Here’s the equation:

• Nikon D800E + Zeiss 35mm f/1.4 Distagon (at about $5,200)
• Leica M Monochrom + Leica 35mm f/1.4 Summilux-M ASPH FLE (at about $13,000).

Without tax or necessary accessories.

Now those are figures that will give pause to most anyone, at least for the 2nd bullet. But what about absolute quality for black and white?

This is a question I had a keen personal interest in. I have satisfied myself using this comparison and several others in combination with extensive field shooting of the Leica MM. Anyone considering the Leica MM should find this comparison intensely, interesting, and yes I enjoy saving my subscribers money.

Now published in my Guide to Leica:

Can the Nikon D800E + Zeiss 35/1.4 compete with the Leica MM + Leica 35/1.4?

Pine Creek tungsten mine processing facilities
Leica M Monochrom + Leica 35mm f/1.4 Summilux-M ASPH FLE @ ƒ/8

Pine Creek tungsten mine processing facilities
Nikon D800E + Zeiss 35mm f/1.4 Distagon