Find a used M9-P instead of going with an X-Pro2?

Ken Ford

Ken Ford

Refuses to suffer fools
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I've been an M user for what seems like forever - I took a long break but came back with an M6 about ten years ago. It's been getting less and less use each year because I've almost completely switched over to digital for most uses.

I never had any interest in the crop sensor M mount bodies because of the focal length conversion. With the X-Pro2 I had pretty much resigned myself to changing systems, but now I have to wonder about a used M9-P. Prices on the M9 seem to be down to the range I could tolerate. As interesting as the X-Pro2 is, I would much rather stick with a Leica and keep my current lenses.

Before I commit to the Fuji switch what could I expect to pay for a user quality black M9-P?
 
Tamarin or Classic Connection

Tamarin or Classic Connection

If you want current prices from excellent dealers, check out Tamarkin or Classic Connection. Both have used M9's and M9-P's currently listed and both allow returning the camera if you are not happy.
 
I looked at the X-Pro 1, or almost did, before buying the M9-P. The Fuji route would inevitably have led to serial acquisition of lenses, maybe upgrade to X-Pro 2, and no doubt, eventually, an M9-P anyway. By going with the digital Leica I had already nearly all the lenses I would ever want, from 1932 to 2012. OK, I did buy a couple more. But I am set. And I am not upgrading from the M9-P unless I have to. I have been so happy with it. So I reckon it is still a good option over a new system and the unpredictability of that.
 
View Range said:
The M9 is not a cropped sensor. The X-Pro2 is an APS-C if I recall correctly.
Click to expand...

Right - I mentioned that as a reason I've never considered an M8 variant. And the XP2 is cropped, but I'd be moving to their glass if I switched.

My choices are stay with Leica and get a used M9-P or switch entirely over to Fuji. I'd probably keep my 35 and 75 if I switched, but only against the possibility of getting a future Leica full frame body. And if I'm going to do that, why not just bite the bullet now?
 
Check dealer prices and knock off 10-20 percent. Check classified here. Don't see much reason for M9P over M9 or ME.
 
I'm fortunate to have several cameras but if I were down to one I would have to go with the Fuji for only one reason and that would be the versatility. It can do Tele, it can do Macro and from what I've read, the IQ of the 2 is significantly better than the 1. If that's the case there is even more reason to go that route. I've been pretty happy with my X-Pro1 once the software folks caught up with the X-trans sensor issues. Not as good as my M9, but darn close.
 
For me, the attraction of the M9-P is the chrome option, Leica script, and removal of the meatball. Pure vanity, I know. :)
 
My vote would be with the full frame M9-P. If you could find a used M9 or ME, since the sensor is the same you would most likely save a few dollars as well.

I owned a M9 for four years and loved it. The option to replace the sensor or take a large credit from Leica for the M9 and put towards a new M-P 240 was to tempting and I went that route. If you do go with the M9-P, M9, or ME check out the sensor and see if it has been replaced or still the original. Leica did state they would replace the sensor on the M9 if the corrosion caused damage to the sensor even if it is out of warranty.

Good luck with your decision.
 
You cannot go wrong with either to be honest. I would weigh the following:

  • AF or MF
  • FF vs. APSC
  • CMOS vs. CCD
  • High ISO vs. Low ISO
  • Weight
  • Cost

After considering all of that, I would think about the CCD again. I'm not a fan since I truly like the high ISO of my Df and X-Pro2. I'd seriously consider a used M240 for about $1000-1500 more. I consider it an infinitely more useful camera. I photograph in low light a lot though and have a bit of a tumor in my hands.
 
M9.

If you enjoy simplicity and rangefinder focusing the m9 is amazing.

I recently picked up an xe-2 and while a very nice camera it still feels like a computer that takes photos rather than a camera. The m9 removes this degree of separation. Also as nice as the Fuji sensor is, the ccd in the m9 is really something special.
 
I almost regret having sold my X100 and gotten the X-Pro1 instead... I did it for the interchangeable lens factor-appeal... For some reason, I'm just not happy or "bonding" with that camera. I grab it and use it because I bought it. Just that.

Prices for used full-frame Leicas are all over the place. They show up here for peanuts (comparatively speaking, you get my drift) or fairly high—from $2900 to $4000.

I've been entertaining the idea... but to spring for one of them, I'd have to sell my Summilux 35 first. And, at this point, I'm finding myself very willing to do it. The Fuji just doesn't do it for me.
 
Ken Ford said:
Before I commit to the Fuji switch what could I expect to pay for a user quality black M9-P?
Click to expand...
M9 prices are already below X-Pro2 prices. M9-P prices should be about at the level of X-Pro2 + a lens.

Significantly pricier M9/M9-P cameras can also be found, especially when they have gone through the sensor change.
 
When it comes to digital photography, Leicas aren't anything special. The X-Pro2 offers better IQ and lower noise in high ISOs than the M9-P.
Get an X-Pro2, an M to Fuji X adapter and a Summicron and you will be happier than ever.
 
Ken Ford said:
Right - I mentioned that as a reason I've never considered an M8 variant. And the XP2 is cropped, but I'd be moving to their glass if I switched.

My choices are stay with Leica and get a used M9-P or switch entirely over to Fuji. I'd probably keep my 35 and 75 if I switched, but only against the possibility of getting a future Leica full frame body. And if I'm going to do that, why not just bite the bullet now?
Click to expand...

Why put off doing what you really want to? (unless you can't afford it)
 
Ken Ford said:
I've been an M user for what seems like forever - I took a long break but came back with an M6 about ten years ago. It's been getting less and less use each year because I've almost completely switched over to digital for most uses.

I never had any interest in the crop sensor M mount bodies because of the focal length conversion. With the X-Pro2 I had pretty much resigned myself to changing systems, but now I have to wonder about a used M9-P. Prices on the M9 seem to be down to the range I could tolerate. As interesting as the X-Pro2 is, I would much rather stick with a Leica and keep my current lenses.

Before I commit to the Fuji switch what could I expect to pay for a user quality black M9-P?
Click to expand...

I would not do it.
The M9 is an old camera with some major issues.
Leica is a weird company with a strange relationship to their older "child".
If you travel at all and require reliability or need low light performance there are much better options (including options from Leica).
If you have other digital cameras and just want the M9 for fun go for it.
If it's to be your workhorse..... think long and hard would be my advise.

Others will surely disagree .... I think of the M9 as the "Sunday Driver" of digital cameras.
Super fun for a sunny day down to the farmers market but, not something you want to take for a drive down to South America or Around the World trip ;)
Personally I would move up to the M240 if i had to have a rangefinder.

Best!
 
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