Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1997/08/15
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]#1 Buy used and save 40% or more, unless you decide to take advantage of an M6 body while the rebate is still on to 9/30. Its a great deal, get the Passport warranty. #2 the M system with 21 to 135 lenses are great, fantastic for travel/reportage/landscape, but rather lacking for wildlife pics with no long telephotos. Personally I consider them at their best for B/W. #3 The R system has great optics, but a long series of bodies which have consistently been 3-4 years behind contemporary designs in terms of features. For instance Nikon introduced matrix metering with the FA in 1984. Leica in introduced their version of matrix metering with the R8 in 1996 and still doesn't have an AF SLR. The hidden cost of the R8 is that the older, less expensive lenses will not give the new metering system functions. Your $6000 will not go very far. #4 Why not the M system for shorter lenses, and a SLR system (Leica or otherwise) for your telephotos? #5 Older R bodies, especially the R3 sell quite inexpensively and take great optics. Used R stuff can frequently be had for 50% of the new price if you shop carefully. The best buys are usually found at your local camera shows. check Shutterbug Ads for the shows in your area. #6 Whatever you do, form your own opinions on what is best for your style. You might get into the Leica system slowly so you will develop your own taste and feel of it. Buying a particular lens because someone else says its great can be a VERY expensive headache if you decide you don't like it. Good Luck Stephen Gandy