The M9 is a different animal and you seriously have to consider your desires and end use for the images. For instance, you can for the most part forget about shooting high speed action sports and extreme telephoto shots. If that's your gig, this is not the camera for you. Also realize that the camera is a Rangefinder and is Manual Focus. This is usually a deterrent to a lot once they find that out.

Expense - note that the MSRP for the M9 is Body Only, and you'll likely pop another grand at least for a lens. There are no real aftermarket lenses in M-Mount, so there are no discounts to be found. Also, the very best lenses are primes, not zooms.

All that aside, there's nothing like a Leica. Love my M8 and don't know if I will jump to M9. Although the M9 is full frame and you'll get the very best out of the superior Leica optics.

For more Leica info both good and bad, try the DPR forum at

http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/forum.asp?forum=1038

Farkas has good Leica info on that blog, but he's also a Leica dealer. It's best to get unbiased info before investing $7k in a camera that may not be suitable for you.

If you have never shot with a rangefinder focus before, my suggestion is get hold of an old film rangefinder cam, either very cheap on FleaBay, or find a camera club in your area and try to borrow one. Something like an old Zeiss rangefinder will do fine. Most old film Leicas still go for a premium price.

As far as comparing it to other cameras, in my mind there s no comparison. There is a look to Leica images that just can't be had on any other camera, even the top Canon and Nikon dslrs.