Need help deciding which system to keep

P

Pascal

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I have 2 contax N1 bodies (almost new) with 24-85mm, 28-80mm, 70-200mm, 70-300mm, and 50mm f1.4 lenses. Both N1 bodies have databacks and the grid screens. Also have two TLA360 flash units to go with the camera bodies. ... and spare screens, eyecups, etc... just about all accessories I would need. All lenses have their respective hard to find hoods also.

I also have 2 like new G2 bodies (both have about as perfect focus as I could ask for) and have the following lenses: 21mm, 28mm, 45mm, 90mm, and 35-70 zoom. Again, both bodies have the GD-2 data backs on them. Also have two TLA 200 flash units and all the accessories needed for the system including replacement eyecups and what not. Again, all lenses have hoods and cases, etc.

Both systems as far as I have used them seem complete to me and each lens/ body/accessory was handpicked from the choices I had so i would get the sharpest/best of the lot.


I need to let go of one system and am having a tough time deciding which one to keep :bang:


I shoot mostly family / everyday stuff including kids, landscapes, buildings, indoors etc.... general stuff. Both camera's seem to give decent images but deep down i know the N1 system is more versatile and images out of the N1 system seem to come out better for me than when I use the G2 system.

Of course, I know the limitations of the G2 system with lens focal lengths. On the N1, I can use a tele zoom up to 300mm while with the G2, 90mm is as far as it will go.

Both serve well for portrait shots.

I love the fact that I could get nice clean shots taken at sundown with the G2 with a shutter speed as low as 1/15th which I know there is no way I can get with the N even with the 50mm f1.4 lens.

Then there's what closet fondler's like me like to see as the "coolness factor" of the G2.

Also love the fact that the G-system with flash and lenses, takes up a lot less room than the N. But there is no denying for me that the N system pictures are easier for me. Maybe I simply need to spend more time with my G2 system... who knows.

What do users of both systems recommend.... which one would you keep.
 
If you like the shots you get with the N1, then keep that. That is what is important. Also, it would be much more difficult to sell the N1 system, at least at a reasonable price, as there is not much of a market for Contax AF slr.
 
How about sell one N1 body, the 28-80mm and the 70-200mm and one G2 body along with the 28...

(Personally I think the G2 is too cool to sell. I still keep around one G2, the 45, the 21 and a 35-70 even though I rarely use them).

j
 
I am watching this thread quite closely as I have the exact same dilemma. I have 2 NDs, N1s, related lenses and two black G2s with related black lenses.

The "cool factor" of the G2s is really true, great tool. The NDs with the 85mm 1.4 are superb.

Best of luck with your decision!

Kent
 
One thing I worry about with the G2... focus accuracy over time. The N1 allows you to manaully focus through the viewfinder if need be... no such luxury with the G2.
 
If it helps, I have a Contax RX and a G2 outfit. I don't have many lenses for the RX (an 85 2.8, a zoom and a 50 1.7). I have the basic three lenses for the G2. Okay, if someone were to put a gun to my head, I'd keep the G2 and sell the RX system. The reason is that the quality of the images I get from the G2 are just a little superior over the RX. That little camera with it's $150/lens optics blows the doors off of anything in the same focal range. It's just astounding what that camera can do.

keoj
 
Whatever you sell, I expect you'll come to regret it. If it's financial necessity, then the G2 system seems to have held its value pretty well... It dipped a year ago or so when I got mine but seems to be back up a ways now.

But if you can manage it financially, I'd keep both systems. You can always pack away one system and forget you have it for a while. :)
 
While I could not imagine parting with my G2, keeping the SLR as the only system makes more sense, of course.

Once either of you decides to sell any of the G2 gear, I am looking for:

1. the databack
2. the 21mm lens

:D :D :D
 
It probably comes down to which camera you enjoy the most. Which feels best in your hands? Which is easiest to use, in your opinion. Let that be your guide.
 
That's part of the problem. I really like using both - and both have very comparable results. With the G2 it really is such a pleasure to use it. And the N1 images are just superb.

The post above is now giving me ideas - maybe I should sell all my G2 and N1 (except 3 lenses) and get a ND

Anyone interested in a trade for a N-Digital :)
 
You have two bodies of each. Sell one of each system, along with a lens for each (the one you use the less... if you must sell a lens). That'd settle it for me.

But then, of course, I wouldn't sell anything. Why? Do you need the money? If you can live with them and have done so until today, why go through the hassle of selling gear?

Just use the stuff more. That's all. And have fun while at it! :)
 
Pascal, I think selling the Contax equipment would be a very difficult decision. Even today, I was thinking of selling my Tamron 90mm macro lens which I don't use much but it would cost me twice as much to replace it. Decisions. Decisions. If you can manage financially and you love having them in your hands. Hold on to them. Ooops. Sounded like I am talking to myself. If you have to sell your Contax SLR, send them my way....hahaha.
 
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