loneranger
Well-known
Hi, I recently tried a pentax 67ii in my local camera shop and quickly fell in love, definitely not as large or bulky as I expected and the shutter not too loud, just seemed like the perfect photographic machine, and so easy to focus the wonderful normal lens, due to it's longer focal length, anyways, problem was, they wanted more than a grand for it...so is the ii version really worth that much more than the original version, which is going pretty cheap it seems...thanks for any advise
mfogiel
Veteran
To begin with, you get a much brighter screen for focusing. I bought an old 6x7 and it is so dim, that you can only focus it in bright light outdoors. Then, there is the question of AE - if you plan to use this camera in the street or for macro work, this helps a lot. Then there is the question of the built in grip, which in my opinion makes the handling of the camera much easier, and is much more logical than the wooden left hand grip. Finally, there is the handy mrror lock up switch, strategically located, so that you can try to use it even when shooting handheld. I believe, that all in all the price of the latest version is more than justified.
Keith
The best camera is one that still works!
I haven't owned the early version but they seem to be worlds apart in their ergonomics and the 67ii has really amazing metering IMO ... spot, centre weighted or matrix.
The built in grip of 67ii makes it feel like a big DSLR ... I find mine very similar in handling to my D700 which I rate very highly. Also the electronic shutter would have to be far more accurate than the mechanical version.
Was that a grand just for the body? ... if so that seems way too much to me. The 67ii is an incredible camera and they look great with a very good build quality, I think the early version is pretty damned ugly.
The built in grip of 67ii makes it feel like a big DSLR ... I find mine very similar in handling to my D700 which I rate very highly. Also the electronic shutter would have to be far more accurate than the mechanical version.
Was that a grand just for the body? ... if so that seems way too much to me. The 67ii is an incredible camera and they look great with a very good build quality, I think the early version is pretty damned ugly.
divewizard
perspicaz
I have both and I have not seen much difference in the focusing screen brightness, but the 67II does have a diopter adjustment the older version does not.
The meter in the 67II is as good as my modern Nikon SLRs and just perfectly nails exposures. E6 comes out perfectly, especially in aperture priority mode. The metering on the older ones is fine for print film, but has not worked out well with E6.
The 67II also nails flash exposures with TTL metering and a proper flash like an AF400FTZ.
Since I bought my 67II I have hardly touched my older bodies. It is in excellent camera. I paid about $950 for mine in pristine condition and I do not regret getting it.
The meter in the 67II is as good as my modern Nikon SLRs and just perfectly nails exposures. E6 comes out perfectly, especially in aperture priority mode. The metering on the older ones is fine for print film, but has not worked out well with E6.
The 67II also nails flash exposures with TTL metering and a proper flash like an AF400FTZ.
Since I bought my 67II I have hardly touched my older bodies. It is in excellent camera. I paid about $950 for mine in pristine condition and I do not regret getting it.
Keith
The best camera is one that still works!
When I think back to what I paid for my 67ii, which was virtually unused, (with two lenses 75mm f4 and 105mm f2.4) I feel guilty. Jim (barnwulf) was incredibly generous when he sold me mine and I'm eternally grateful. It's one of those cameras I can take out of the cupboard and go 'wow!' ... they really are an imposing beast.
In fact this thread is making me want to load a roll of HP5+ in mine and go out and scare some people!
In fact this thread is making me want to load a roll of HP5+ in mine and go out and scare some people!
Vincent.G
Well-known
If a grand gives you the 67II body + AE Prism + 105/2.4 lens + strap + strap lugs + body cap then I say it is pretty decent deal if the condition is excellent.
The original pentax strap lugs are very useful (in my opinion) and make sure it is together with the body. If not, it is not easy (and expensive) to hunt them down later on.
The 67II is better in ergonomics than the earlier versions and it is a big plus already. Helps a lot in handholding.
Waus
Well-known
If you buy the 67II-carefully check the film-winding, the 67II is more prone to winding problems than the 6x7 or 67...(I found out by myself...)
Calzone
Gear Whore #1
The 6 segment metering of the 67II works great, and when combined with a TTL dedicated flash works flawlessly. Recently shot Fashion Night Out with Velvia 50 and got perfect exposures. When I say deadly accurate, I mean it.
The camera weighs a lot, but the ergonomics are great. Now when I shoot smaller lighter cameras, after shooting the Pentax 67II a lot, I feel that I'm a lot steadier. Shooting this camera is a bit of a workout, especially if you are not a big guy.
Overall I say the 67II is a better camera, especially with the AE prism.
Cal
The camera weighs a lot, but the ergonomics are great. Now when I shoot smaller lighter cameras, after shooting the Pentax 67II a lot, I feel that I'm a lot steadier. Shooting this camera is a bit of a workout, especially if you are not a big guy.
Overall I say the 67II is a better camera, especially with the AE prism.
Cal
gavinlg
Veteran
I had an original model 6x7 with the AE top. It was an absolute sweetheart of a camera to use - really smooth, easy to shoot and the 105mm takumar is one of the best lenses I've used.
I haven't used a 67ii but it's only going to be better. I wouldn't be afraid of the older ones though - just make sure they're in good condition (mine ended up with electrical problems).
I haven't used a 67ii but it's only going to be better. I wouldn't be afraid of the older ones though - just make sure they're in good condition (mine ended up with electrical problems).
Vincent.G
Well-known
Calzone
Gear Whore #1
Vincent,
I returned a hot shoe grip because it did not come with the flash sync cord and secured second hot shoe grip that included the small cable, because I later learned that the cable is not readily available.
The flash I use is the Pentax AF500FTZ which is the most powerful dedicated flash that was ever made for the 67II.
I'm no flash expert, and prior to covering Fashion Night Out recently my only experience using flash was doing a wedding with a Nikon F3P with a Vivitar 283 using guide numbers. All I can say is that the Pentax 67II with AE prism using the 6 segment matrix metering literally made shooting at night on NYC sidewalks basically a focus and shoot. Other than operator error (not waiting for the flash to fully cycle to charge) every exposure was spot on.
Also I shot Velvia 50 in 220 which many people said not to do, but the stylized look of vivid colors and strong contrast captured a great look for the event.
Last time I checked IGOR had a AF500FTZ available for $100.00. That's the same price I paid for mine and it came with the case and instructions.
Cal
EDIT/UPDATE: the AF500FTZ is now priced at $95.00 at IGOR.
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sykotec
Well-known
what they all said - the 67II is something akin to a Nikon F3, but BIGGER, and with excellent matrix and TTL flash metering. It's a beast to be sure - like Cal says, when I pick up the Mamiya 7II it feels like a little toy, even for the same format. Granted, it's kinda built like one, even before comparison with the Monster Pentax.....
That said, the price difference IS substantial. If you're planning to use it as your main rig, and can afford it, I'd highly recommend the 67II. If the price difference means getting into the Pentax 6x7 world or not, take the older camera, be sure to get the thoroughly awesome 105/2.4, and try for the best condition you can find.
Like Keith, my 67II came from Barnwulf - I don't say 'thank you' nearly enough, it's been an outlook-changing experience. Now I've got a format-addiction problem to keep in check though - the Pentax 67II and Mamiya 7II make a great pairing, but those RZ67 Pro II's sure are tempting!
That said, the price difference IS substantial. If you're planning to use it as your main rig, and can afford it, I'd highly recommend the 67II. If the price difference means getting into the Pentax 6x7 world or not, take the older camera, be sure to get the thoroughly awesome 105/2.4, and try for the best condition you can find.
Like Keith, my 67II came from Barnwulf - I don't say 'thank you' nearly enough, it's been an outlook-changing experience. Now I've got a format-addiction problem to keep in check though - the Pentax 67II and Mamiya 7II make a great pairing, but those RZ67 Pro II's sure are tempting!
Paddy C
Unused film collector
I have both the 67 w/metered prism + MLU (note that this is the second iteration of the camera after the 6x7) and the 67ii w/metered prism.
$1K is a good price for a 67ii in EX/EX+ condition (with the metered prism).
If you are shooting on a tripod and comfortable using an external meter (or just know your exposures) then it doesn't matter which you buy.
In hand, shooting when speed is needed and when lighting conditions are variable, the 67ii is better by a mile. Ergonomically it is far, far superior to the previous models. And the metering in the prism is outstanding. I've been amazed at how well it handles most things you throw at it. And dialling in a little exposure comp is easy.
So yes, the 67ii is worth the extra money if you're planning on shooting things other then landscapes. However, you will find that 67 quite useable and, if money is an issue, I certainly wouldn't hesitate to buy one and find out if you enjoy the beast.
Note: I find focussing accuracy to be dependent on the lens (thus brightness) and type of screen. I have the split image in one and micro prism in the other. I actually find it easier to focus the 67 (than the 67ii) because of the screen (which IIRC is the micro prism – but don't trust my memory).
$1K is a good price for a 67ii in EX/EX+ condition (with the metered prism).
If you are shooting on a tripod and comfortable using an external meter (or just know your exposures) then it doesn't matter which you buy.
In hand, shooting when speed is needed and when lighting conditions are variable, the 67ii is better by a mile. Ergonomically it is far, far superior to the previous models. And the metering in the prism is outstanding. I've been amazed at how well it handles most things you throw at it. And dialling in a little exposure comp is easy.
So yes, the 67ii is worth the extra money if you're planning on shooting things other then landscapes. However, you will find that 67 quite useable and, if money is an issue, I certainly wouldn't hesitate to buy one and find out if you enjoy the beast.
Note: I find focussing accuracy to be dependent on the lens (thus brightness) and type of screen. I have the split image in one and micro prism in the other. I actually find it easier to focus the 67 (than the 67ii) because of the screen (which IIRC is the micro prism – but don't trust my memory).
loneranger
Well-known
THanks everyone for your great comments. I think I am going to sell some unused gear and go for the 67ii. The one in the shop I saw for a grand seemed a little beat up so I think it is overpriced perhaps. Any ideas where I might be able to pick up a good condition one in the US...ebay prices seem crazy...I thought medium format prices were coming down, but I guess there are exceptions
Paddy C
Unused film collector
Good question. Right now on KEH you're looking at $1400 for a 67ii and prism in EX/EX+ cond.
That's more than what I paid two years ago for mine (from KEH).
Here's one at B&H that's more reasonable. But I don't think (from experience) that B&H's grading is as conservative as KEH's:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/800887629-USE/Pentax_67II_Medium_Format_SLR.html
You are right that there are exceptions in MF pricing. High-quality, top-tier gear and lenses (67ii, Mamiya 7, Contax 645 etc) seem to be holding value.
Calzone
Gear Whore #1
I paid $1K for a very clean 67II, but with an unmetered prism and got an AE prism from KEH a long with some Pentax glass. I saw some 67II's at KEH that were better priced than EBAY, but they sell fast.
Also I highly recommend getting a 55/4.0 (28mm equiv.) for a wide because its a great-great performer, although big and heavy (72mm filter threads).
If somehow you can get a 75/2.8 AL get it. It is almost as fast as the 105/2.4, has the same great bokeh and OOF, but offers better close focus. Its a 40mm equiv. and I find that its a perfect walk around lens. The hood is tulip shaped and looks kinda evil.
I will repeat that owning and using a huge Pentax will make you a better handheld photographer with smaller cameras. I thought I was steady before, but now I am even better.
Cal
Paddy C
Unused film collector
The 75/2.8 AL is THE best lens in the system (I also own late models of the 55, 105, 165) for the very reasons Cal mentions. It is also sharper and has, to my eye, better contrast over the other lenses.
The reason you don't hear about it is that they are expensive and very hard to find.
Best to forget about it and enjoy the 105.
Keith
The best camera is one that still works!
It was quite a pricey system when it was new. I checked prices of my body and two lenses at about the time the camera was discontinued and here in Oz it would have cost over five grand new. MF gear really is amazing these days when you consider what you're getting for the price you pay.
Someone described the sound of the shutter as being like someone falling down a flight of steps a while ago!
Someone described the sound of the shutter as being like someone falling down a flight of steps a while ago!
divewizard
perspicaz
I picked a pristine AF400FTZ on eBay for $26 with shipping that works great. My 67II has the wooden handle with the hot shoe grip and cord.
There is a variety of TTL Pentax strobes that will work. There is a nice comparison table here.
Vincent.G
Well-known
Hi Cal
Thanks for sharing. I take a lot of photos of my children indoors and so want to find a flash so that I do not have to keep pushing my film.
Do you happen to have a picture of your hot shoe set up with the cord? I suppose they come together right?
I need to apologize to the OP for asking this in his thread. I thought my question is too trivial for a new thread.