[Leica] Re: R8 counterpoint. It really is better.

[Jim Brick <jim@brick.org>]

Great, great post Dan !!!

My M cameras are better than my R cameras for a few things.

My R cameras are better than my M cameras for a lot of things.

Jim

At 12:52 PM 2/12/00 +0000, Dan S wrote:
>
>A little counterpoint to the legion of R bashers here on the lug:)
>
>I know it can be dangerous to break ranks in cult settings... which I think 
>describes some of the feelings about the M's, but I just have to weigh in on 
>this subject.  LUGers suggesting that the R should be dropped from the 
>line-up really have their M-rose colored glasses on.
>
>So here goes,
>
>
>The R8 is better than the M6 because:
>
>It has the best damn viewfinder in the photographic world.  (I don't care 
>how clear the M6 finder is, it just doesn't allow exact framing!  It pisses 
>me off to get collateral stuff in my shots unless I PLANNED for it)
>
>The R8 has a MUCH more accurate meter. Gimme a spot meter over center 
>weighted any day.
>
>The R8 has a MUCH more accurate shutter, with greater speed ranges.  Say 
>good-bye to shutter tapering at 1/1000.  A pain in the ass that accompanies 
>manual cameras with regularity.
>
>It allows truly flexible photography.  You can shoot macro's and street with 
>the same camera.  Yes, you can shoot candid and street with an SLR.  No, the 
>M does not drop a cloak of invisibility on the user.
>
>It is better built than any other manual focus 35SLR currently 
>available...Yes they have had their problems, but they are worked out now.  
>Ask a Contax user about reliability if you want a real sob story.(I am one 
>of those)
>
>As for auto focus...Yes, Leica should offer it.  No, I wouldn't buy it.
>
>So that's my shot at this subject.  I like the M, but the best of my 
>photography happens with SLR's.  There , I said it.   Lash me with noodles 
>if you like, but it's the truth.
>
>Best wishes to all
>Dan States
>Chicago Illinois