Help with new camera rig purchase - Olympus micro 4/3rds cam

[jmartel]

So, after using a GoPro for my last trip to Grand Cayman and being used to a Canon 7D above water, I decided that I wanted something better.

I've been racking my brain trying to decide between either the popular Olympus E-PM1 bundle that everyone has for $500:

http://www.opticaloceansales.com/housin ... combo.html

And buying an E-PL5 and associated EP10 housing which works out to roughly $1300.

Given that the E-PL5 has the newest sensor from the O-MD which dramatically improves the high-ISO capabilities, I can see why it would be better in the cold dark waters here. Additionally, the EP10 housing allows a larger number of lenses with the stock port. Both cameras will involve me buying a strobe for it. Traditionally, you want to buy better lenses before a better body, but given that housings are body specific, I want this to be a one and done deal for a while.

The biggest difference is that if I buy the PM1 deal, I can get a second strobe, a second lens right away, etc.

This is probably going to be the only underwater setup I buy for several years, and I intend on doing a liveaboard trip to the Galapagos in 2015.

Cliff notes:

Is the better sensor in the E-PL5 worth it to forgo getting a second strobe or extra lens? With the PL5 I'll be on the kit lens for a little until I save up for more lenses.

I'm planning on heading over to Optical Ocean Sales in the next few days as well to talk to them about my options.

[cardiver]

I wouldn't worry about the higher iso of the 5. You'll be using strobes around here 99% of the time.
If you go with the 1 the main port works with a few lenses and the Zen Pen dome should cover you for wide angle ( non fish eye) shots.....

[Scubak]

Take a look at the Oly thread on this camera.
Lynne, Peter and Jenn are all getting some amazing pics with the setup.
I am still working on mine.
Kirsten

[jmartel]

Ended up going to optical ocean sales and picking up the PM1 package. The cost difference was too big to justify.

The salesmen (Martin I think his name was) was giving me good advise about the two cameras as well as the other associated accessories.

[cardiver]

Take a look at the Oly thread on this camera.
Lynne, Peter and Jenn are all getting some amazing pics with the setup.
I am still working on mine.
Kirsten

They have the PL1 and this camera is the PM1........

[Scubak]

Oops! Sorry Cardiver....
I just know everyone is loving the Oly...
K

[jmartel]

Now all I gotta do is get it in the water.

[Peter Guy]

My guess is that everyone will find the various PEN line of cameras will all have very similar issues and so we should all be able to learn from each other.