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In Reply to: i'd like some advice for a new SLR camera posted by chiggy on October 22, 2001 at 09:56:56:
I use a Nikon manual focus camera, but I keep looking at AF models, so I'll share some thoughts with you. I think the Sigma is a bad idea because of the very limited selection of lenses. No fast 50 mm for example, no 35 mm f/2, and you're stuck with Sigma. Not much used stuff either.I'm mad at Nikon for not including compatibility with AI & AIS lenses on the very nice N-80. THe N-65 is pretty nice, too; and it now has depth of field preview. Also, you cannot use the new VR lenses with older models. That and I think the newer AF lenses give flat looking results. I was bitching about this at my local camera shop, and the sales guy pulls out some prints made with a Nikkor 24-120. Nice and flat looking, just like my 28-105 AF (I was using it on my MF body) If I were going to go with Nikon I think I'd look for a good used N-90, N-90s, or 8008s to retain compatability with my collection of AI lenses. I just don't like the user interface on the N-70 and it has no depth of field preview (a fatal flaw IMHO), but that's personal.
If I go to AF, I'll probably go with Canon. They have a wide and growing range of IS lenses, the lenses are compatible back to the beginning of the EOS line, and I love the operation and feel of their USM drive. Their lenses also feel better in use than the Nikkors. Model: a used A2 or 630 or a new Elan 7, but not the 7E (again it's a personal choice) They have depth of field preview and mirror lock up. Features I need. Lots of good used glass available.
I had a Minolta 7000i some years back. After the third trip back to Minolta for service, it went bye-bye. I hear of lots of service problems with Minolta AF models. I did like the fact that the better Minoltas will AF reliably at f/8. Everybody else stops at f/5.6 on their more affordable models and in many cases even the top models. I particularly liked the ergonomics of the 700is and the 600is. Very easy to use. Lots of decent glass, too. If I could be assured of their reliability I would seriously consider these.
Don't forget Pentax. The ZX-5n is in your price range. I have large hands so I need the optional battery grip. Not fancy, but really good metering and good ergonomics. They use the older Pentax K mount lenses and flash as well. Also, the older PZ-1p is being replaced, and prices are down. This is a rugged, full featured model, that has mirror lock up. There is a reasonable selection of lenses, and like the Minoltas, the used prices are lower than Nikon and Canon.
Hope that helps.
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