Stuart Richardson;1929 wrote: …….
The only real downsides I can think of are the size and weight (comparable or less than most competitors), and the expense (ridiculously expensive, but worth it).
Well, the size and weight is not really a downside of this particular camera. It is just one of pleasant inevitabilities of medium format. The body itself is smaller than most medium format cameras and even some of 35mm pro SLRs. It is the lenses that cannot be made smaller or lighter.
As to the price tag, look at it this way: Leica S2 is a system, which makes 35mm SLR unnecessary for the most part. So, there is no need to maintain two systems. It really saves you 10-15 grand, depending on your lens lineup.
Even for those who shoot wildlife and sports, all you need is one 35mm SLR body and a 300/2.8 lens.