Thanks to Stephen Gandy for going the extra mile to get the 667 to me a few days ago. I've been using it for about 5 days on my trip up the California coast. I've been using the 667 in Aperture Priority mode all the time and trying to trust the meter. Several rolls so far of Acros, XP2, HP5, Portra 160NC, Tmax 100. My initial thoughts:
- Not a light camera for a folder but it's a folder and has less bulk. Fits well in my BBB.
- Very good ergonomics and VF
- Nice to have 6x7 and 6x6 in one camera.
- Solid and really well made.
- Users have reported on how quiet the shutter is but I wasn't prepared for how quiet it REALLY is. One thing that all the little digital P&S cameras have is an almost silent shutter. I didn't think a film camera could come close to that but the 667 does! No one other than the shooter will hear this camera fire.
This really is a camera that replaces the Plauble Makina 67. I've Tried the Plaubel and the 667 beats it in every way in terms of use.
I feel that comparisons with the Mamiya 7 are not fair because they are such different animals, even though both shoot 6x7. I do think the 667 can be compared to the Mamiya 6 due to its retractable lens. I really love my Mamiya 6, especially with the 50mm lens. I'll keep you all posted as I use the 667 more.
