purchase advice requested - leicaflex sl2 vs r8

[david.elliott]

Good morning all,

I'm thinking about buying into the leica r series line of cameras, either the sl2 or the r8. Just curious as to your thoughts and opinions on the matter.

Seems to me that I should go with the sl2 as the electronic components are pretty much irrelevant (I use incident light meters). The r8 seems pretty sweet, but I am concerned that I would one day end up with a pretty sweet paperweight.

Would likely purchase a summicron-r 50mm 3cam lens to go with the camera.

Cheers,

David

 

[Michiel Fokkema]

I used to have the SL2 and still have a R8 and a R6.
The SL2 is just too big for me, I like the R6 much better. I only use the R8, which is rather big too, only when I really need the EA.
SL2 however is a very nice camera. If you don;t ind about the metering you might as well get a SL. Main difference is the more sensitive meter in the SL2. The1/2000th on the SL2 is unreliable anyhow.

 

[Pickett Wilson]

The SL2 is a great camera with a wonderful finder. At this point, though, if I were looking to buy another R, I would go with the R8. It's a pretty sweet camera. If you are just a fan of the old, mechanical cameras, though, the SL2 is a good choice.

Also, and this is JMHO, I've never been able to tell the difference, in actual printed photos, in photos I shot with Leica R lenses and comparable Nikon or Canon lenses.

 

[david.elliott]

I thought that the focusing screen in the sl and sl2 differed as well?

One thing I have not been able to find out is whether the sl2 affords high eyepoint relief for glasses wearers. Would be interested in your comments in that regard.

----

Opinion noted as to seeing the difference in printed photos. Not sure if I just became a better photographer over time, but looking at my prints from back in the day when I only used Nikon gear ... the difference is dramatic. But really that probably has little to do with the gear that was used.

 

[Pickett Wilson]

I can't see the entire frame of an SL2 wearing eyeglasses, have to scan around some. I've talked to other people who weren't bothered by it, though.

 

[david.elliott]

Thanks Pickett.

Now I just need to decide whether to go with rugged mechanics that have the potential to keep going for decades vs. sweet modern goodness that may crap out and leave me with a paperweight. 😛