Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1997/07/22

[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]

Subject: Re: Some thoughts on the R8 ...
From: dvcinc@swbell.net
Date: Tue, 22 Jul 1997 15:53:11 -0700

Roger Beamon wrote:
> 
>
> Don't get me wrong, I like Leica. I sold off my EOS1n kit to go Leica, BUT
>
I also like Leica and have a heavy investment in R and M gear. I have
looked at the R-8 and like it, especially the bright viewfinder as well
as the solid shutter release and general fit and finish. BUT

I am also very impressed with the F5. Practically speaking body for body
and feature for feature, there is no comparison. The F5 is simply much
more advanced. Same can be said for the EOS 1n. The R8 is contemporary
and has many nice features but it is still several years behind the
competition. Its main feature is it takes Leica lenses. 

I am torn. I would like autofocus. I specialize in trains and nature and
wildlife. Trains move. My eyesight is good but I am getting older and am
now 64 years old. Ones eyes do not get better as you age and that is an
important reason why many people go to autofocus.

If I went with Canon or Nikon, it would probably initally be a F5 or EOS
1n with a could top quality zooms. Anybody have any thoughts as to which
lenses, Canon or Nikon, that a long time Leica user might prefer. I
rented a Canon Elan II with a cheap 35-80 lens and was surprised at the
quality. It lacked Lecia contrast, but it was sharp. I have no
experience with L lenses. As far as bodies are concerned at this point I
think the F5 is probably tops.

I am not sure what I will do. Any thoughts or advice would be welcome.