Re: [Leica] Pocket camera replacement

[Nathan Wajsman <nathan.wajsman@euronet.be>]

Bud,

Thanks for your long reply. My late GR1 was used almost exclusively with
slide film (usually Fuji Sensia 100 or Kodak E200), and the quality of the
images stood up easily to any shot with my SLRs with a 28mm lens. I was
tempted by the Minilux Zoom, but was turned off by the absence of manual
controls (the GR1 has aperture-priority) and by the slow top shutter speed
of 1/250 sec. (the GR1 has 1/500). I am willing to spend good money to get
this image quality, and so I seriously looked at a Minilux (not zoom) today.
But it costs 50% more than the GR1 (30000 BEF vs. 20000 BEF), has a slightly
slower top shutter speed (1/400) and is significantly bigger. So I have
pretty much decided to just buy another GR1.

Thanks again!

Nathan

Bud Cook wrote:

> Nathan,
>
> When I went looking for a new P&S for my wife,  the most important
> feature I had in mind was the quality of the lens.  There appeared to be
> three brands that had optical quality better than the competition
> (Nikon, Contax and Leica).  I didn't like the ergonomics of the Nikon
> and the feedback that I received from a lot of people was that the
> Minilux had the better lens compared to the Contax.
>
> The Contax seemed to have the better ergonomics but in the end, the low
> magnification viewfinder of the Minilux and the method of selecting
> different options hasn't been a problem.  The focus lock on the Minilux
> occurs BEFORE you actually make the exposure which I find to be a big
> advantage over the T2.
>
> We've just returned from a long trip to the Maritimes and the Minilux
> performed beautifully.  Of course this is with Kodacolor 100/200 prints
> so I can't state absolutely what the camera would do with Kodachrome or
> Velvia.
>
> Admittedly the 35ti, T2 and Minilux are very expensive for a P&S camera
> so that has to be factored into your decision.  Frankly, I'm not sure
> that spending so much money on a camera that'll be used for (automated)
> prints is worth it.  On the other had, if the Minilux does as well as I
> think it will with slide film, I may look at a Minilux Zoom for
> myself:-)
>
> Best regards,
> Bud