Yashica T4 vs Contax TVS

[keytarjunkie]

Hey all. Right now I'm shooting with a Pentax 6x7 (80% of the time), Yashica T4 Super D, and occasionally even a Nikon D300 when I feel like it but let's leave that out of the picture. I've had some nice 35mm cameras in the past (Nikon S2, Leica M2) and have learned a lot from them but I guess the whole "35mm-manual-everything" thing doesn't fit me 🙁 as long as I'm going to the trouble, I'd rather shoot 120 or 4x5. I feel like I'm missing out a bit on 35, and I'm not always pleased with what I get out of my T4. So here's my plan:

This summer, I plan on buying a Contax G1 or G2 with a 45mm lens. I was going to buy a Hasselblad, but I already have the Pentax 6x7 and who needs square format anyway. The Yashica T4's 35mm lens has always seemed a little narrow for my taste as a walk-around camera, and I think I'll have fun with the Contax G but I will certainly need something wider, and I was looking at point-and-shoot options to replace the Yashica T4. There aren't many. The Ricohs are too expensive for me. The Contax T2 and T3 are wonderful but equal or longer to the T4's focal length. I know that the TVS' 28-56mm lens isn't on par with the Contax T2 or T3, but how is it compared to the Yashica T4?

I'm also half-considering getting a used Sigma DP-1...but I should probably avoid that. There's also a hard-to-find Fuji Natura Classica with a 28/1.9 and a Fuji DL super mini with a 28/3.5 that I can't find either but looks interesting. The point is, I need a compact camera to replace my Yashica T4 with a 28mm lens and preferably under $300. Any other options I should look at?

 

[Jamie123]

How about a Nikon AF 600 P&S? It's got a 28mm f3.5 lens and last time I saw one for sale it was dirt cheap.

 

[marty_e]

I've had most of the cameras you've mentioned - the Ricoh GR, Yashica T4 and I still use my Contax G2. Why not spring for the 2.8/28 Biogon G mount along with the 2/45? I see these at around ~$300. did you need another camera body along with the wide? My only choices at this point are the Nikon 28ti which ebays for ~$600 and the Fuji Natura.

I've had bith the DP-1 and 2. If memory serves me right, it's the DP-2 that's 28mm Foveon sensor. The Sigma is awfully slow when shooting raw and uses up batteries like no other digital camera i've owned.

Indeed, the lens of the Contax TVSIII is not at par with the T2 or T3 but it's still no slouch.

 

[shyoon]

The 28mm Biogon for the G1/G2 is brilliant. I have the 45mm Planar as well but 90% of the time I find myself using the 28mm.

 

[keytarjunkie]

How about a Nikon AF 600 P&S? It's got a 28mm f3.5 lens and last time I saw one for sale it was dirt cheap.

Also on my list, thanks. They seem to be dirt cheap for sure!


As for the 28mm G...yes, I'd love one but I'd also like something small to throw in my bag that isn't the G1/G2. So I guess it's between that lens, and the TVS (either the I or II, not the III).

There are no Fuji Natura 1.9's out there right now but there are a few with zoom lenses. Does anyone know how the Natura Classica zoom compares to the Contax TVS/T2/Yashica T4/etc?

 

[wafflecakee]

if you're getting rid of the t4... let me know🙂

 

[muf]

Ricoh GR1. Plenty for sale. The GR1s also can be bought for under your limit. The GR1v is the only one that goes for the big money. Also consider the Ricoh R1 with its 24mm/30mm dual lens. These can be had for easily under $100 and are top quality.

As mentioned. The Nikon AF600 is a little belter! Can be bought for peanuts. Even camera shops sell them cheap. ffordes have one for only £39. My AF600 matched my Contax T when I took them out last winter to a local park. I was quite shocked just how good it was. Considering it cost me 10 times less than the Contax T and its just as good. Although the T is beautifully made from Titanium as opposed to the AF600's robust plastic shell.

 

[keytarjunkie]

Ricoh GR1. Plenty for sale. The GR1s also can be bought for under your limit. The GR1v is the only one that goes for the big money. Also consider the Ricoh R1 with its 24mm/30mm dual lens. These can be had for easily under $100 and are top quality.

As mentioned. The Nikon AF600 is a little belter! Can be bought for peanuts. Even camera shops sell them cheap. ffordes have one for only £39. My AF600 matched my Contax T when I took them out last winter to a local park. I was quite shocked just how good it was. Considering it cost me 10 times less than the Contax T and its just as good. Although the T is beautifully made from Titanium as opposed to the AF600's robust plastic shell.

Thanks, good to know. I'll look around for the nikon then


EDIT: I ended up springing for the Contax G28, and really looking forward to it. I have an eye out for the Nikon AF600/Lite Touch, and I'm planning on tossing the Yashica T4D (never really got along with it). One day I'll get a Fuji Klasse W or a Ricoh GR1, but today is not the day. Thanks all!