differences between the M7 and M6 TTL

[cope07]

I am considering (or rather lusting after since I don't currently have the funds) the Leica M7 and M6 TTL. I ruled out the Hexar RF because I hated the sound of the motor drive on my Nikon F301. The rest of the rangefinders (Ikon and Bessas) are, IMO, just. plain. ugly. I also held an M7 in a store the other day and began to get a sense of what makes leica special...like holding a lens with a finger or two rather than a whole palm like with my D90 + sigma 85 1.4

What I am trying to figure out is what are the differences between the M7 and M6TTL? I know they both have the larger backwards shutter speed dial, which I love. Part of the reason why I liked my Nikon FG. They both seem to have the same shutter speeds, viewfinder mags, etc. Is the only difference AE?

What are the average used prices? seems in my limited searching that the M6TTL is about $1500 and the M7 is about $2000-2500? are these about right?


One last question, what is the cheapest way to get an M mount lens of relatively "normal" perspective (~38-55mm) that has a proper scalloped focusing flange (aka not just a nub, but one that actually has the groove for your finger)?


Thanks for your help everyone

 

[presspass]

As you say, the obvious difference is the AE. The M7 has just two shutter speeds available if the batteries fail. The M6ttl still has all shutter speeds without the batteries. The M6ttl will not fire a hot shoe flash if the batteries fail; I don't know about the M7. The M7 is also a bit quieter, although that may be subjective. If you're thinking about an M7, try to get one with the newer, flare-resistant finder and the optical DX reader. The original pressure DX readers are a real pain.

 

[cope07]

Thanks, I would definitely look into getting one with the newer, flare resistant finder. Is there any way to discern this before buying?
I don't, particularly care about DX reading though. I've used enough manual cameras to be perfectly happy setting the ISO myself.

 

[kdemas]

The MP flare resistant finder is important, big improvement. Compared to the M6 the M7 shutter is far more accurate and more quiet, though battery dependent.

 

[Rob-F]

M6 has very smooth shutter release. The M7 release button feels "notchy" because it reaches a hard stop after being pressed enough to make the meter work; then you have to press through a point of resistance to trip the shutter. This can jiggle the camera a bit, so it can be important at slower shutter speeds. The blinking red electronic display in the finder can be distracting. Outside of these caveats, it is a great camera.

 

[35mmdelux]

The M7 is without doubt the finest Leica I have used. Buy the newest serial number avail to you and try to get the upgraded optical DX reader. The upgraded optical DX reader allows the film to drop out easily and its not just to avoid setting the ISO manually. I have had no flare problems with the original finder.

 

[cope07]

any way to discern if the M7 has the MP finder upgrade?

 

[kdemas]

any way to discern if the M7 has the MP finder upgrade?

If the M7 came with the improved finder from the factory it will have a big orange sticker on the box stating it, no kidding. aside from that I don't know of a visual inspection routine that will spot the condenser... Maybe check to see if he vf patch whites out more easily than you would expect (highly subjective).

The improved finder really makes a difference.

 

[peter_n]

The improved finder does make a difference and the optical DX reader isn't just about DX reading, it's also about not having the film cassette stuck in the chamber. I used both of these cameras for a few years and liked the M7 better. Very quiet at the low shutter speeds.