I have a system built around a Nikon d80 lenses etc etc. I am finding it very awkward to carry around heavy and bulky. Can anyone recommend a very good compact I have been told the LX3 is about the best with Leica glass etc.

Took a quick peek at the LX3. It's a bit long in the tooth (announced in 08). It's replacement, the LX5, has already been released. Besides size, is price a deciding factor, or do you have some budgetary freedom? Might help you to check out dpreview.com. Lots of info there on diff models, as well as comparisons between them.

Good luck.

Steve - When a person who owns a DSLR want to lay it down for a P&S camera, you have got to wonder why? The answer is simple, they want to increase the FUN of photography. Anyone who finds it awkward to carry around a heavy and bulky camera is not lazy, but just the opposite, they are very active, and want a camera that fits their lifestyle. All you have to do is to view your own gallery, Steve, you dont sit on your duff, you get around. I am proud of you for having discovered what type of equipment you need to fit your lifestyle. Your question was "can anyone recommend a VERY GOOD compact. Gosh Steve - the Panasonic LX3 is a VERY GOOD camera. What more do you want. It has attachments, it is rugged, and it has all the features to help you capture what your mind sees. To avoid the extra stress associated deciding which camera to purchase, I suggest you travel to your favorite camera shop and actually hold the camera in your hands. Make sure it fits, and you can easily access the controls. If you have got fat, short or long fingers, this is very important. Then the real test! Put the camera in your pocket, can you hear it beg to go along with you? Then compare it to other cameras. Its kinda like purchasing a pair of shoes, there are many that look good, but until you try it on, only one will actually look and feel good. Is there anything about the LX3 thats not to like? Yes! the 3inch screen breaks easily if you put it in your pocket and sit on it! To enjoy the fun of Photography, go get it.

LX5? However, Leica are rumoured to be replacing their D-LUX4 soon, so there may be another model coming soon.

Any Lumix camera will make a great compact Steve, the hand made German lens is unbeatable against the Japs, it's clarity can be breath taking. I use an old Lumix FZ50 see my gallery for the results.

Btw have you thought about an FZ35/FZ38 ?

Steve, I am a Canon Rebel man. Currently, I am saving my pennies for a new 50D or 7D. That said, I also often carry a Panasonic DMC-ZS3 in my pocket. It has the aforementioned Leica lens. I am very pleased with it and have often posted pictures on this site taken with it. ~~ John