SX-70 or SLR 680?

[andrew00]

Hey,

I spent some time in Austin, TX recently and got to play with my friends polaroid camera (one of the large land cameras) which was awesome.

I've decided to get my own although I'd like to get a small, foldable camera as I'm a sticker for something compact (ish...relative to the big 'uns!).

I was looking at the SX-70's and the 680's and was wondering which people would suggest between the two is the smart buy.

I know Impossible have their colour film for the SX-70's out now but are just bringing out the 680 film which looks impressive and certainly the 680 seems the more 'supported' camera type as it's the newer incarnation.

Looks wise, to be honest I'd love a camera that gives the lofi look. I've got digital cameras that gives great images that can, as all digital can, lack that soul/magic.

I don't know if there's a tangible difference between the two cameras in that sense but I thought I'd ask which people feel the smart buy is, both from a point of view of support for the camera - film etc and also look of image wise.

I'm currently thinking of going for the 680 simply as it's 10 years newer and so there should be more around that are in good nick.

 

[Sonnar Brian]

The capacitor for the Flash of the SLR680 is prone to breaking down, and taking out the electronics board. I had this happen with two of them: had one rebuilt, used the other sans flash. The SX-70's seem to fare better. My original is over 35 years old, works fine. Same with the SX70 Sonar, works great. The flash seems to be the weak link. Remember, the SLR680s are pushing over 25 years. My SLR690 is 12!

 

[dazedgonebye]

I prefer shooting with the SX-70. Don't much care to use flash or AF, so all that stuff on top is a waste.
On the other hand, access to 600 iso film vs 100 iso can be a very good thing.
No surprise then, my solution is to own a few of both.

 

[mgilbuena]

The SX-70 can shoot both 600 film and SX70 film. To use the 600 film in the SX-70, you will need a ND filter placed in front of the lens. Best of both worlds.