What an amazing video-review! I'm in love with my Dynax 9…I'm 27 years old and mainly shoot digital but whenever I can I pick up my Minolta…no other camera makes me happy just since the moment I take it in my hands…it's an emotion even just listen to the shutter being operated…I'm a Minolta-Sony user since I was 16 and hope my 9 will keep on working in perfect conditions as it does now…long life to the Dynax 9! I bought it last year for 150 Euros…what a bargain! A real piece of photographic instruments' history, a creativity tool, a work of art! Congrats again for your video…and for your love for the mighty 9! Greetings from Italy!
Thank you for the 4 Minolta A9 videos! They helped convince me to get one.(an A9 from Japan) It was in beautiful shape and felt so right in my hands.I looked at the Maxxum 7, but the three examples i tried from one store near me all had a defective latch on the film door.The 9 is so solid and well made.It reminds me a bit of my Sony A700. The controls have a certain resemblance. Your videos are slightly addictive in regards to purchasing cameras. I also bought an Olympus OM2n .Lovely as well. I appreciate the way the controls are so easy to access and no menu diving needed.Well maybe a little for the custom settings, but they are so simple to use.Again thank you for me with my addiction.
Thank you! The 9 is still my favorite film camera. It's a stunning piece of equipment. I agree with out about the 7. I have one but it's not nearly as well made and on mine the exposure compensation dial broke so I had to replace it with one from a Nikon F4 just to have something there.
Thanks for the superb video after watching it one year ago I bought one and since loved it so much. I found an adapter to use md lens with my alpha 9 ... It's AMAZING! All that thanks to your video.
Thank you! This is still my favorite film camera. Nice find on the MD adapter, too. Being able to use other lenses makes it really easy to step into a new system.
Thanks David for the most incredible review ever made over a camera. I agree with you 100% of everything you have expressed about the Minolta 9 and thank you for the nice pictures you brought with the camera
Thank you! For me, no it would not be. But I also use my gear a lot, it gets beat up, and I don't look for rare or attractive gear any more. In fact, on my 9 the grip plastic has been drying and cracking in the last year and I've had to repair it with black plumbers putty. So I would definitely avoid a more-expensive version of this camera as I doubt that's a problem that's limited to my camera.
Great and spirited review. I was drawn to Minolta Alpha 9 after viewing this review. I enjoy using both 9 and 7. Serious cameras, better than any other 35 mm film SLR! Also, saw Paul Taylor, a photographer and youtuber from NZ, mentioned the comprehensive review by you on this camera.
Great review of a beautiful camera, I love my Maxxum 9, got it from Japan with the battery grip and the DM-9 data memory back for $450, mint. The camera looks like it was hardly used if at all it looks like new. I love the way it feels in my hands and the shutter sound, I use it with a Sony Carl Zeiss 85mm f1.4 and a Minolta 35mm f1.4 and get fantastic results with Portra 160 and Fuji Pro 400H. I switched from Nikon digital to Sony A line, just so I could use my Minolta glass. Keep up the great work.
With a lot of delay, thanks for this video. The photos are superb and trigger in me an irresistible desire to buy! It must be said that this device is my favorite.
I'm sad after my 3rd roll my Minolta 9 gave in. The shutter just doesn't want to click. I'm thinking if i should buy another one or just sell the lenses i bought. I hope after development the 3 rolls will come out worth.
It does everything. The button just doesn't makes the shutter work. I focuses but never opens the shutter at whatever shutter speed. Will cost JPY30,000 to repair. I'd rather buy an adapter and use the lenses on an emount than repair it. Giving up on this Minolta 9.
Great images and review David! Of course I had to look this up after you had hinted at this camera in your Pentax LX review. My wife got a Minolta for her grad around 1985 - I think it was a 5000 - will have to check. Anyway - if I ever do pick up an alpha 9 we will already have a lens or two for it! The flash sync speed, maximum shutter speed, and viewfinder coverage on this camera sound out of this world, even by 2019 standards!
I'm 45. Ordered an Alpha9 from Japan a few minutes ago. Can't wait to use it, As it was my dream camera 20 years ago :-) We are the same children who drooled at these. with a credit card...
I worried about that, too. Ultimately, for me, it didn't because of the dial-based interface. But, if it does, you can always resell it for close to what you bought it for.
As many have mentioned and can be seen on Ebay, the 'rubber grip' isn't a simple cover where one can simply re-glue it. - It's a solid injection molded component which engulfes the entire grip chassis along with the hand contacts etc. ; it just crumbles like a deteriorating 'Superball' - With no replacement parts available, one will need to fashion some kind of putty or clay to squeeze-form a grip around that zone of the chassis and contacts etc..
In time, I would think so, yes. Another option is, after cleaning it, to coat it with clear nail polish which will trap the rubber suffering plasticizer migration.
Thank you! gsxkatana is correct. The difference is only the name painted on the camera. Maxxum was used in North America (and maybe South, too?), Dynax in Europe and Africa, and Alpha in Asia. When Sony bought the Maxxum line from Konica Minolta they dropped, wisely, the Maxxum and Dynax badging and went with Alpha worldwide. I think that if Konica Minolta had done that they may have fared better in terms of market share.
Dynax was also in Australia - my one and only Minolta camera was a Dynax 3xi. It was a good one too - I saw one a few months ago, used as a demo prop in a clinical photography rig, and got all nostalgic. Sadly, by the time I could afford a replacement with my own money, Minolta were Konica Minolta and I could smell the end coming. Also, digital was on the horizon and I saw it as a useful tool to generate medical student teaching images quickly (same day). I felt it better to wait until that had matured to the point where I felt it could compete at least at 6x4 size. When that day arrived, Minolta had gone.
This got me hyped. Nice to see videos like this on forgotten goodies. Gotta say part of me really wants the 7 but I keep hearing about reliability due to age. I think I’ll get both lol
I'm really looking forward to getting this one someday!I I shoot analog with a Minolta SRT101 and a 400si. Digital with a Sony a99 and a KM7D. I've tried other cameras but no one comes close in having the right feeling as the KM7D and I can imagine the 9 being even better! I even got a Canon Eos 1V today with the vertical grip and holding in and then the KM7D I do have a hard time imagine how Minolta could not have been a bigger player amongst the pros..
Thank you! If I had to only shoot one color film for the rest of my life, it would be Ektar 100. I don't have a close second in color negative. Fuji Velvia 50 would be in for slide film.
Watching this seems like less a review for the Alpha 9 but rather a love letter. Great video. I will note that Minolta did have a couple of Pro bodies after the XK/X-1 with the 9000 and 9xi, but neither have the lasting reputation the 9 or XK has.
@@DavidHancock The 9000 was the first pro camera with AF in the 80´s. Unfortunately Minolta never became a player in the pro market on a level with Nikon and Canon. Theier cameras were techical often 3 years before ahead before the competition but minolta became never the choice of the pros. Minolta never offered a pro service and that kept them out of the pro market.
i've just inherited a Dynax 9. its been a very long time since i have used a film camera. I'm looking forward to trying it out. but i'm thinking i maybe should have it looked at. professionally, as i'm not sure how long it's been stood, unused. It could have dust inside that would affect image quality. thanks for the video review. Any hints or tips concerning loading film or test shot to do would be appreciated.
Thank you! You can probably just clean it and it will be in good shape. Cleaning it would be similar to cleaning a lens, but with less cleaning fluid, or none, if possible. For testing, just pick a film that's cheap but that you know. Then just shoot around the neighborhood for that roll and develop it. That should tell you how well the camera is working. Try it on different settings and with different exposure times, but I'd be surprised if the camera wasn't working.
Thank you for your valuable inputs. I went for the 28f2.8 50f1.7 and 100f2.8 macro. I dont often use the 85 so I didnt see any reason to get another 85. also I used the budget instead to go for the horseman vh as a starter for large format. Im so excited for both cameras to arrive.
I only have two -- the 50mm f/1.4 and the 28mm f/2.8. Most if not all of the Alpha primes are great. I also have an M42 to Alpha adapter that lets me use some M42 lenses on this camera, too.
@@DavidHancock any recommendations for 28-[any_length] zoom lens ? i'm on the fence of getting a body after watching this video, but I can only settle for one lens. i like 28mm a lot for landscape and environmental portraits and also would love to have a longer focal length, could be 70mm above. I checked some of the websites and the selection is overwhelming. any recommendations? :)
Hi David, I'm just in the process of purchasing an Alpha 9 from Japan. I'm looking for a kick-ass 50mm for it. Which one do you recommend? Thanks in advance.
I have the 50mm f/1.4 and it's spectacular. I also had the 50mm f/1.7 for a long time and it was a great lens, but slightly softer in the corners than the 1.4. If the 1.4 is too spendy, the 1.7 is a great alternative.
A great dream camera! The prices on them have been all over the place in the last couple of years. I've seen road warriors go for $500 and then ones like mine, which is absolutely mint, for less than $200, all without any discernible reason.
I watched this review because I loved my 7D, now I have to answer a very difficult question: start using my F4 again, get my FA repaired, or get an Alpha 9. You’ve actually made it easier (harder) with your reviews as comparisons. Would be easier if I could afford one with the SSM upgrade but that’s just chasing stars for me. Thanks a bunch, in a good way, mostly!
Thank you! So my only consideration for you would be your lenses. If you had no camera gear and wanted a 35mm film SLR, I'd say get the 9. But if you're invested in some Nikon lenses, go with the F4.
@@DavidHancock Problem is, I have both!!! I’m leaning towards Nikon as the F4 was in the wild longer and there are more parts and experienced repair personnel out there. Really love the Minolta layout though.
What an inspiring review. The first line of this video is enough for me to buy the camera! Well, its should arrive from Japan anytime soon. Been trying to find an 85mm that I can use for Sony A7 as well. Can you possibly tell me if I can use Sony 85mm f1.8 for the Nine, considering my camera has surely not been updated to use SSM lens. Thanks.
Thank you! I believe that you can use the Alpha 85, f/1.8 with an Alpha to E adapter. I am not 100% certain on that so there may be someone out there who knows more about Sony than I who could confirm that.
Nope, they are different cameras. The 9xi preceded this one. I haven't ever seen one of those so I can't tell you all the differences, but there were some functional, and certainly quality, improvements between the 9xi and 9.
I have found an excellent condition dynax9 with the grip, dedicated flash and data back for 700€. Do you think, that's a lot? No lens in the kit. But the data back I really want and not easy to find it independently.
@@DavidHancock Yeah, I'm sure you're right David. And it's not even the DM-9 as I originally thought. It's the DQ that only imprints the date on the frame.
Outstanding review and pictures to accompany it! What is the current price of this gem (to substitute my aging 600 Si), what are the pitfalls on the electronics and will the HS5400 flash work on it?
Thank you! These are going for anywhere from $300 to $600, depending on if they have a lens or not and their condition. The electronics on these seems to be a-okay so far. I've heard of one with a shutter release issue on the board but otherwise these seem to be stable, reliable cameras. I'm not sure about the flash.
David Hancock Thanks for the report. I was uneasy about it as it is the same age as my 600 Si and I've thrown $200 to repair both bodies and only to see them fail again. It's perhaps the fulfilling of the need to have a Swiss Army knife that can tackle all photography without a hickup that makes me conserve the Minolta Lenses camera and flash.
I've watched this so many times I'm really so fascinated by it. The way you make the videos makes me really want to go out and buy one. Now trying to order through JCH. Wanted the 9Ti but I don't know if worth it without SSM or a Minolta 9 with SSM? Any suggestion? Also confused with the lens. Definitely a 28-50-85 combination. That 85 F1.4 just looks so good. 28F2 or F2.8 is enough? 50F1.4 or is 1.7 enough?
Thank you! Let me see if I can help with the answers: 1- Finding a 9 with SSM is going to be hard and there's not a whole lot of benefit unless you have the specific SSM lenses. The new, eight-pin non-SSM lenses are backward compatible with the five-pin early Alpha mount bodies. My 9 doesn't have SSM and I was using an eight-pin STF lens with no issues. 2- The 85 1.4 is supposed to be an amazing lens, but I haven't used it. With a lens with those specs and cost, no company will release a sub-par version. 3- I have the 50mm 1.7 and really like it. Given that they go for about $40 to the 1.4's approximately $250+, I haven't been able to justify the upgrade to the 1.4 Also, if you're not averse to manual focus lenses, pick up a chipped M42 adapter and you can use all kinds of great M42 lenses with the 9 in aperture priority mode.
@@DavidHancock I have the Dynax 9 and got it upgraded to use SSM lens. Paired with the Minolta 70-200 f2.8 G lens made for a fantastic (although heavy) photographic tool. Your video brought back a lot of memories. My only other G lens was the 85mm f1.4. To this day I still make occasional use of the G lenses on my Sony Alpha camera.
Photo quality depends on the film, lens, and the photographer. Your camera has almost zero influence on the photo quality as long as it performs properly.
Finally got the results of the shots that I took. And wow. The meter is the best! I have never shot a roll with so many focused shots. The af is great. Since my shutter button is broken and used the vertical grip to shoot It became so heavy. I will definitely get another one if I cant get this fixed. Now the 9Ti looks worth every penny although not needed because it will just be another clutter. Thanks for this video!
I'm in the Philippines. Shipping might be too expensive but I might be able to find a way. Do refer me so I'll know the price estimate. Some picture flic.kr/p/QUztTD Thanks David.
Nice shots! I liked one one of the propped fishing rod, the nose-on shot of the fishing boat, and the dog. The photo of the guy in the hoodie on the fishing boat is the best, I think, in the lot. That's a really nice photo. I sent Mike an e-mail about the Nine shutter button. I'll let you know, either way, if he can fix it.
I talked to Mike. He said the issue is probably not repairable any more. The problem is likely electronic and not physical, and he doesn't have any spare parts for the 9. The last shop that was repairing them stopped about eight or so years ago, too. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. :( It is possible that someone out there is repairing them and no one that I know is aware of them. Photo.net has a good photo repair community and people there know of some shops I'm not familiar with. So they might be worth asking.
David Hancock Thanks Im very flattered you like the pic. I guess I just have to buy another body. I really need to reduce my gear. I have to start learning to sell some stuff. The vertical grip is just too heavy.The body is just right. Thanks.
Hi David, I am an enthusiast that is pendulum-swinging back from digital to film (imagine that!). I Have a Sony a77 with a couple of lenses (brand new sony's 50 and 11-16) and two older af lenses (an 35-80 macro and a beercan). I was hooping to get your opinion about which way to go; get me a Minolta Alpha 7 and use the lenses I already have in it or get me a XD11 with a couple of old manual lenses (with hopes of using them also in my sony a77). The prices listed on both are pretty much the same. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!
Were it me, I would stick with the same lens mount. I'm in the long process of thinning my camera collection. I realized one day that I have a 50mm f/1.4 for each camera system I have. So that was like 16 50mm f/1.4 lenses. What a ridiculous state of affairs that is. If you have Alpha lenses, I'd go with the 7, which is a fantastic camera and MUCH more capable than the XD11.
Wow! Thank you very much for taking the time to write me back! I really appreciated that! I went your way and got me the Alpha 7. The camera is awesome! Could not resist and shot an entire roll of 36 with it as soon as it came thru the door. Brilliant viewfinder, quick focus and stellar metering! I am officialy blown away by it... happy as a clam! I've been following your videos and because of them got me also an Yashica Electro 35 (another gem)! I am a big fan of your work, keep it up! Julio - Recife, Brazil
thanks David for the nice video. it made me get a Minolta 9 to go with my Minolta 7 and 5D. Too bad Minolta had to get out of the camera business. they made my favorite 35mm cameras and lenses.
The 9 changed my entire view of Minolta cameras. Up to it I had used the 7000, SPxi, and a few other entry-level bodies and had a soft of 'meh' reaction. But, man, their top-end gear was amazing. I'm thinking that I may pick up a 5D or maybe a newer Sony body when I do my X-1 video and have a bit more room in my Minolta case. I'm just amazed whenever I get to shoot with this camera.
+David Hancock yeah they had a huge difference between the entry level and their high end cameras. it must of turn people off to other brands. As for the 5d. It is my favorite DSLR I have used. it just feels right in my hands and is a joy to shoot. Being modeled after the minolta 7 and 9 helped a lot (mainly the 7). I'd highly recommend one.
Thank you! These are awesome cameras. For the astrophotography I used an iOptron. I forget the specific model, but it was the $300 unit about five years ago. It's been superseded by a much better unit since then.
what I love most about my a-9 is that all my Sony glass will work on it...but even better, the 85/1.4 + 135/1.8 zeiss lenses will autofocus on it with amazing results...it truly is the best of both worlds...
5 years later this video has a lot of weight to it. I’m a huge fan of Minolta, and ironically I ended up being a Sony camera man a year and a half later after using strictly film. Thank you for this educating photo essay/informational. My only question, because I have a Minolta Maxxum 7000, is what key differences should I expect if I place my order for a Alpha 9?
I know this is an old video, but how did you make your pictures so good? Did you develop and scan the films yourself? I could never get similar results from a lab, no matter how much I paid.
Well, firstly, thank you very much. I appreciate the compliment. As for my results, color negative film I have lab scanned (Old School Photo Lab has been my go-to for a decade now.) For slide film (it's hard to tell which is slide and which is C-41 in a video) I have them developed and then digitize them myself. For black and white, I develop and digitize myself. I do have a video posted about DSLR digitization that covers the gear and process and it could put you pretty far down the path of getting better digital image from film. A big part of my workflow is using my DSLR to capture raw files and then editing the raw files.
Love this video I have my old beloved 9 in storage unused for far too long. I'm getting that legend out and running a roll of HP5 through it very soon. I'll make a video of the experience. Thanks for the inspiration David, new subscriber for you. Regards Paul
The 7 is also nice and has some advantages, I'm told. I haven't used the 7, but the STF simulation fascinates me (enough that I researched how to do it and wrote an article that detailed how to simulate STF lens effects for both digital and film cameras earlier this year.) The 7 is a great camera, too.
I just ordered a Canon eos 1n from japan. Then I watched your review on the 1v and this one. Now I want to order a Minolta too haha. Great review thank you for sharing.
Thank you! In this video the two most used lenses were (in this order) the Sony 135mm f/2.8 T/4.5 STF, Minolta 50mm f/1.7, Vivitar 135mm f/2.5 in M42 mount. Takumar 17mm f/2 fisheye, and Takumar 105mm f/2.8.
Oh gosh. That's a good question. You'd probably need to contact individual repair firms and ask if they repair this model. Spares are very hard to come by and Minolta was never good about supporting repair firms in the first place, so finding a repair for these could be exceedingly hard.
And watching this video in 2021, $180 +postage could get you a alpha 9 with the 25-85mm f3.5 lens, the camera I wanted back in the 90's but had to make do with my old 7xi before moving to Nikon digital about 12 or 13 years ago. But I still might get one yet 😏😉
There are a ton of great A mount lenses, include the Sony A mount lenses. I'm not aware of an F to A adapter but there are chipped M42 to A adapters that are relatively inexpensive and useful. There are a LOT of great M42 lenses out there and a couple of M42 adapters is a great way to expand a lens lineup quickly.
Beautiful review and stunning images. What is the film you've used for color landscapes, Natura 1600? BTW, I can also recommend several other Minolta AF cameras. 7 is internally even more advanced than 9 and has a very useful rear LCD. It is probably my favorite 35mm SLR camera. Great joy to use. Worst build quality I've seen. 9xi is quite unique. The simplest interface ever put to a top of the line AF SLR, has reliable AF and metering. Much lighter than 9. Has a few quirks that you may hate. If you like using m42 glass on the 9, you should also try a 9000. It has a useless AF but has one of the best metering modes I've seen (H/S), is pretty lightweight and with the manual film advance lever, it's simply cool. Has MF confirmation for m42 lenses too. Too bad that two copies that I have have failed (stuck shutter) on me(actually my gf). One of my favorite cameras(hers too).
Thank you! For the images, I used Natura and other films. Do you have one or more you're curious about the film selection for? I thought about the 7 but decided on the 9 because it lacked the LCD. I admit that I'm very curious about the 7's STF simulation. I wrote an article for Pentax Forums on STF simulation where I reverse-engineered the approach and was able to simulate STF lens results using film and old M42 lenses on the 9 (and other cameras.) What is H/S metering?
I'm curious about some of the shots. The ones at 0:15, 4:43, 7:02 are a few. I remember someone simulating the STF effect on an old Olympus lens on LensRentals Photo geek contest a few years ago. The link is here but sadly the images are gone: www.lensrentals.com/blog/2013/11/photo-geek-contest-2013-winners/ Scroll down to Gaussian Approximation. It's a shame we can't do this on digital cameras automatically today. It should be so easy to pull of, even during a single exposure. Instant good bokeh for every lens. H/S metering is a clever thing. Basically, the camera has a spot meter with three different settings. First one is normal spot metering. H setting is for the highlights, with +2.3EV exposure compensation. S is for the shadows, it has -2.7EV exposure compensation dialed in automatically. These values are where the film still maintains texture detail in highlights and shadows respectively on most film stocks. You simply turn the metering to Shadow mode, point the camera at the shadow area where you still want detail. Camera measures accordingly. No need to mess around with exposure compensation with anything, it's pretty quick. Or if you are shooting slide film, simply turn it to Highlight mode and take measurement of the area you still want detail. Job done. These functions are available with m42 lenses too, along with the MF confirmation with > o < arrows to indicate which way to turn the focus ring to. Pretty nice things when you're shooting fully manual lenses.
obican For the three photos, those are Natura, Natura, and Ektar, respectively. For STF simulation, it can't be done on digital camera because they use scanning sensors and not universal sensors. Universal sensors work like film and all the pixels receive all their allocated photos the whole time. Scanning sensors receive light a few lines at a time in a repeated image scan. STF simulation, in-camera, wouldn't work with a scanning sensor unless it combined multiple images. The way it SHOULD work is to have a universal sensor and then simulate the STF image with aperture control (stopping down the aperture at a slowly reducing speed from wide-open would simulate the STF effect and delivery a proper exposure.) H/S metering sounds amazing. That would be an incredibly powerful tool. I'm not sure why more camera makers don't include something like that.
I think it can be done but you'd need two mechanical shutters. Electronic first curtain wouldn't work. Also, aperture blades should be able to move at the required speed, which may dictate a minimum shutter speed requirement. Only a few cameras had the H/S metering feature. Some Oly models (OM-4 comes to my mind) had it. Canon T90 kinda had it. 9xi has it, depending on the function card inserted. It is also possible to configure a Minolta 7 for this mode, using the 1&2 settings on the mode dial. Still, 9000 probably had the best implementation.
Yes they are. The names were different by market. The Alpha was the Japan name. Dynax was used in Europe and, I think, Africa. Maxxum was for North America.
The Dynax 9, 7, 7D, 5 are my favorite design EVER. Still gave me butterfly in my stomach by just watching it pictures, I hate Sony for not using this gorgeous design for Modern A/E mount Cameras. The Dynax 9 & 7 Wins Many Awards around the Globe, including the most prestige Japan Camera Grand Prix, beats Canikon.
I love them, too. I just got an Alpha Sweet II (Dynax 5) in black last week. I like the 5 a LOT, more than the 7, in fact. They hit a real home run with that generation of camera bodies.
David Hancock - I have the Silver Dynax 5 also, with silver lens Great Retro Modern, with Superior Simplicity & Ergonomics. Its really a great small slr, better design than any small dslr these days. The bulit quality is great, with Smooth Vibration Mirror Flapping and Best Shutter Sound in class. (unlike Canikon) I found even the 1986 Minolta a7000 have a great Shutter Sound. PS: Get the Battery Grip its great
Well, one drawback to doing so many videos is that I'm invested in basically every camera system. I'm planning to pare down a few but will be keeping the 9 and adding a couple more A lenses in the future. Right now my only A lens is a 50mm 1.7, which is a great lens. I picked up the $12 M42 adapter so that I could use my old M42 lenses on the 9 and that's worked very well. I really enjoyed the 135mm STF lens and would seriously consider getting that at some point.
This is a camera that I look at every so often and have almost pulled the trigger on purchasing at least ten times. The only reason I haven't is because I own a Maxxum 7 (and completely love it!) and the Maxxum 9 doesn't seem all that much different except for a bigger and more rugged body. That being said, I want it anyway even though it is not totally rational. Sometimes buying a camera isn't a rational decision. lol.
I have both. If you're happy with the 7, there's no reason to go to the 9. I like 9 more because the interface is a bit more responsive to changing conditions. The 7 is a bit technical with screens and menus for some functions. But going from a 7 to a 9 won't be a life-changing experience.
David Hancock that is pretty much what I figure. I do like that the 9 is more robust though as I do take a camera out to the coast often. I also like the lack of the back screen. It's kinda cool on the 7, but ultimately unecessary. These days I'm noticing lots of 9's for under $300 so there is a part of me that is kinda like.. "ehhh, why not!?" I mean, I do consider the 7 in my experience to be the gold standard of a "modern" SLR. If the 9 just improves it that tiny little bit much more then it could be cool.
I wanted an Alpha also for the same reason. It is the brand Sony now uses by default, not Maxxum, not Dynax, but Alpha. Sometimes it makes me want to be a total brand snob and put a Zeiss lens on the front, my 7 supports SSM. Your 9 may do (but it's a bit hit and miss as to whether the person who originally had it had the custom (send away) firmware update installed. They really are great cameras. The A9 now lives on with the Sony A9, but it's a bit of a shame that there were no successors to either the A7 or the A9.
Same. When I got my 9, I wanted an Alpha. It's harder to find nice ones cheaply with the badge, but it fits with my Sony mirrorless more than a Maxxum.
However what about the lenses? It seems that the least talked about part of the Minolta AF ecosystem are the lenses, which makes someone wonder whether there are any good. Definitely there shouldn't be top notch - talking about glass quality more than anything else - otherwise there would have been more referenses online than what they are. I would love to hear your opinion on the best lenses of the system that you have experience of and perhaps point to some sources for lens reviews etc. Thanks!
The lenses are good. Some of the Sony A lenses are the same optical designs developed by Minolta in the 90s. Plus you can use modern Sony A lenses, which are excellent. One thing about camera gear reviews, many of them have historically been either paid for by the makers or been based on loaner gear (sometimes loaner gear with no return date) provided to the reviewers. Loaner gear from a maker to a reviewer won't come with an explicit quid pro quo to provide a good review, but no reviewer will jeopardize a source of free gear (except this reviewer, but that's another story.)
Metin Veznedar Yes, I will. I haven't filmed the manual yet, but when I do it will get edited go live fairly quickly. I'm not sure when my next shooting day will be yet. I think I'll have four or so cameras to do that day (Olympus OM-1, Minolta X-700 and X-370, Canon FTb, and maybe a Hassleblad.)
Many people say nikon is better than minolta in terms of lens quality, but as far as I have experienced, minolta has given me better picture quality! ! Even my maxxum 5 gives sharper image than nikon f100 for any kind of lens. Maxxum 9 gives unbelievable quality of pictures! Just amazing! Is it just me who think minolta produce the best picture quality out of all brands?
I remember when the Maxxum 9 came out. I couldn't afford it. I was a broke young man. Lol. I'd ended up buying the Maxxum 7. I still own that innovative camera.
I'm going to buy it from Japan with battery pack :) I want the whole thing! I fell in love with this camera since I got 9000 as a gift. But I still prefer my Fujica AX5 to Minolta 9000
I personally use a 50mm f/1.4 and a 28mm 2.8. I'm planning to get a 24mm 2.8 to replace the 28mm, but they're expensive lenses. I'd also like to get a 135mm STF for myself, but can't justify it. Those are all top-end lenses. Some excellent, more affordable lenses are the 50mm 1.7, which I used for a long time, the 28mm 2.8 which I currently have, and the Minolta 135 2.8, which is a nice lens. I tend to go for a 28, 60, and 135 as a basic kit as that covers about 95% of lens needs. Here's a link to Dyxum's database on lenses: www.dyxum.com/lenses There are some excellent third-party options as well as Sony-made lenses.
haha. Im more envious of all the time you have chosen to spend with anything photographyü I seem to only have time at night to drool on cameras since I have work in the morning as my workflow. I want to shoot more.
I spend my days feeling like I don't spend enough time on it! :D When it gets dark here, as it's starting to now, early in the evening, I find myself doing more indoor work and tabletop stuff. It's a good way to keep active even with limited space and time.
It only turns on when needed in low light for focusing. If there is a way to disable it, that would be covered in the third part of my three-part video manual series for this camera. That's linked in the description for this video.
@David Hancock I just double checked cause on minolta maximum 7 i have this option 😊. Anyway, I have one more question for you. Do you know is is any adapter or something that made autofocus works on newer lenses for example Sony A mount 70-200? All newer lenses is working on maxxum 7 but unfortunately not working on maxxum 9.
David Hancock I see. It's such a nice camera that appeals to me on either models 7 or 9, because a UA-cam user uploaded an old 9 min promotional video about the 9 from Minolta. I keep going back to it and watch it again and again and especially the part of the high frame rate of 5.5 fps and record fast rewind time. I reckon you could watch the promo video it's awesome. I could post the link in comments if you'd like.
1:12 Surprised Owl is perfectly synced to your comment on flash speed! Seriously, though, how the hell can any company create a camera this good and still go to the wall? It just doesn't make sense.
:D As for why this camera didn't pump all kinds of life into Minolta, it's marketing. Sony's Betamax was a better product than the VHS, but Sony's marketing failed and so did Betamax. That's why, 30 years later, Sony marketed the heck out of BluRay (even though the advanced DVD were a better product from a technical perspective) and made BluRay the successful heir to DVDs. It's Marketing. Canon did (and still do) it well. Nikon did (and still do) it decently. Pentax, Minolta, Miranda, Olympus, not so much. And it's also the type of client that the brands attract. Canon and Nikon attract rabid followers. And while each brand has, to an extent, it's rabid following those followings are smaller (in raw numbers and as a percentage of the whole) for the other brands. The interfaces are different and, I think, the differences in interface attract a different type of photographer with a different mindset and different approach.
Pentax make a good enough camera that people just keep on buying it, though there are a couple of times since 2000 that it's been terribly close to the precipice and Ricoh are arguably Pentax's salvation. Ex-SLR-makers themselves, I think they appreciate the Pentax legacy. They followed Pentax into K-mount in the 70's and probably could not bear to see it fail. That aside, it's people like you, Ed at Photouniverse and Spyros Heniadis who give Pentax its biggest boost on YT. I haven't yet come across anyone else in the English-speaking world who is as enthusiastic about the brand. I keep on thinking about doing some vids myself, but can never find the time. Maybe one day...
Fuji Natura 1600. My All About Film video for that film is rendering as I write this response, so check tomorrow for the Fuji Natura All About Film video to be uploaded.
I got my 9 (yes, I also bought the Alpha for the badge) for $208 from someone who gave up film. I know they're all the same, but the Alpha badge just seems right due to the fact Sony settled on Alpha.
@@DavidHancock Mine lacks the SSM upgrade sadly, but considering how much I have seen some of them go for otherwise I'm totally fine with that if that's the only downside to getting a good deal on a 9, much less an Alpha badged body. Kind of a bummer, but I feel like I got lucky to get mine for what I did.
also i'm not brand loyal, i take on items and things kind of like one would at a buffet, if it's good i'll put it on my plate and eat it, BUT i'm a beginner, i have done a lot with digital but film was already on it's way out when i was just a boy, i am starting to think i would like using this camera more than the canon EOS 1V , maybe i can rent them both someday or something, film has some kind of connection with my brain tho, i dunno why, i have collected so much film junk, old 8mm movie cameras, vintage SLR's but i want an SLR that is basically the same as a digital just not digital , like this camera in this review. using the canon A-1 i have is fun but i kind of want more.
The best advice I have for anyone getting into film is not to buy tons of gear. Pick a single system and stick with it until you really understand film. Learning lots of gear will only complicate the process.
I think this camera and a Nikon F5 are both on my wishlist for when I have money to burn. No lenses in either system (well, a couple Nikon lenses that came with a N70), as I'm mostly a Pentax shooter, but they both sound good.
I'd like to try an F5 someday. I'm gathering photos for the MZ-S video but that's still a ways out. I was surprised by how much I enjoy the MZ-S. I didn't expect to like it. I went into using it expecting I'd really, really dislike it, actually. But it's a nice little camera with very impressive performance.
It just arrived (that was super fast shipping from Japan...) First impressions are VERY good. Probably the most well built camera I've ever held. Gotta say, as a Pentax shooter, I keep pressing the DOF preview button rather than the lens release lol.
1/12000sec maximum mechanical shutter speed is even impressive today. I don't know any current digital camera with 1/12000sec mechanical shutter speed (Not electronic shutter speed, that's a different story). The Minolta α9 was the pinnacle of film cameras however Canon and Nikon had better variety of lenses and prevailed. Minolta purchased by Sony in 2006. I bet that many Minolta engineers are behind the success of mirrorless e-mount cameras in 2010, the α7 series in 2013 and the Sony α9 in 2017. After all the choice by Sony of the names α7 and α9 isn't accidental with the names of Minolta film cameras. At 01:05 the flash sync of 1/300 sec with shutter curtain isn't the fastest ever. The Nikon D1, D1H, D1x and D70 have real 1/500th sec max sync with shutter curtain. (Not High Speed Sync with underpowered flash neither with leaf shutter)
Thank you for sharing the wonderful review and photos. I've been a Minolta fan since I started shooting with SLR. a707, a7, SRT101, then finally a9 which I couldn't afford when it debuted long time ago. One of the reasons I liked Minolta from the beginning was Ms. Candis Bergen appeared in their commercial footage as she was using XD:) ua-cam.com/video/EwBv1NKD5KE/v-deo.html I can never let go of my a9 once I shot with it. Cheers:D
Yuck. I'm not sure if that's a simple covering or an integral part of the body. If it's loose and can come off, then a stop gap measure might be to remove it and re-place it with some adhesive-backed leather. If you can't remove it really easily, you can use a toothpick and some tiny drops of Pliobond in the cracks. Pliobond can be removed with rubbing alcohol, so if you mess up or it's ugly, you can remove it and try again. A light-duty clamp might be able to hold the plastic in piece so that the glue can dry without leaving a visible crack. One other good thing about the Pliobond approach is that if it works and the glue fails in a year or so you can re-do it with a better glue like Gorrilla Glue clear knowing that the approach works.
Danget, i am sitting here now second guessing myself, cuz i just watched the review on the canon EOS 1V, now i watched this one and i want one of these now, i'm doomed, i'ma end up with 1500$ in old SLR cameras omg.
Thank you. I tend to see all people as being on a path and I recognize in other work that I don't like as much as my best work image approaches that I once used. And I recognize in work that I like much more than my own (of which there is a lot) approaches to the subject which are are compassionate and filled with narrative depth. I do try hard to bring a lot of life to my images, and I think most photographers do, but not everyone has learned how yet to do that within the confines of their creative vision or voice.
*7:52* And that's what you and I call a *STEAL!!!* (no -pantsu theft- KonoSuba reference here) I searched for it on eBay and luckily I've found out that they do sell it for USD 199 (loose) up to USD 369 (boxed)... I want to try that one out very soon...
What an amazing video-review! I'm in love with my Dynax 9…I'm 27 years old and mainly shoot digital but whenever I can I pick up my Minolta…no other camera makes me happy just since the moment I take it in my hands…it's an emotion even just listen to the shutter being operated…I'm a Minolta-Sony user since I was 16 and hope my 9 will keep on working in perfect conditions as it does now…long life to the Dynax 9! I bought it last year for 150 Euros…what a bargain! A real piece of photographic instruments' history, a creativity tool, a work of art! Congrats again for your video…and for your love for the mighty 9! Greetings from Italy!
Thank you!
These are spectacular cameras. Definitely my favorite camera ever, and I don't see that changing.
Thank you for the 4 Minolta A9 videos! They helped convince me to get one.(an A9 from Japan) It was in beautiful shape and felt so right in my hands.I looked at the Maxxum 7, but the three examples i tried from one store near me all had a defective latch on the film door.The 9 is so solid and well made.It reminds me a bit of my Sony A700. The controls have a certain resemblance. Your videos are slightly addictive in regards to purchasing cameras. I also bought an Olympus OM2n .Lovely as well. I appreciate the way the controls are so easy to access and no menu diving needed.Well maybe a little for the custom settings, but they are so simple to use.Again thank you for me with my addiction.
Thank you!
The 9 is still my favorite film camera. It's a stunning piece of equipment. I agree with out about the 7. I have one but it's not nearly as well made and on mine the exposure compensation dial broke so I had to replace it with one from a Nikon F4 just to have something there.
Thanks for the superb video after watching it one year ago I bought one and since loved it so much. I found an adapter to use md lens with my alpha 9 ... It's AMAZING! All that thanks to your video.
Thank you! This is still my favorite film camera. Nice find on the MD adapter, too. Being able to use other lenses makes it really easy to step into a new system.
Emile Simard ive been looking for an adapter for my MD lenses, care to share which one you have?
I have just bought a Minolta Alpha 9, from Japan, I can not wait for it to come :)
Nice buy! They're amazing cameras. This is still, and likely always will be, my favorite film camera ever made.
Thanks David for the most incredible review ever made over a camera. I agree with you 100% of everything you have expressed about the Minolta 9 and thank you for the nice pictures you brought with the camera
Thank you!
Totally agree. A truly beautiful camera. Every button for a purpose. Brilliant.
Thank you!
Awesome video, i regularly rewatch it. Do you think the TI version is worth the premium?
Thank you! For me, no it would not be. But I also use my gear a lot, it gets beat up, and I don't look for rare or attractive gear any more. In fact, on my 9 the grip plastic has been drying and cracking in the last year and I've had to repair it with black plumbers putty. So I would definitely avoid a more-expensive version of this camera as I doubt that's a problem that's limited to my camera.
Great and spirited review. I was drawn to Minolta Alpha 9 after viewing this review. I enjoy using both 9 and 7. Serious cameras, better than any other 35 mm film SLR!
Also, saw Paul Taylor, a photographer and youtuber from NZ, mentioned the comprehensive review by you on this camera.
Thank you! Yes, Paul shot me a comment when he uploaded that and I really appreciate that. His review is also really an enjoyable watch.
Great review of a beautiful camera, I love my Maxxum 9, got it from Japan with the battery grip and the DM-9 data memory back for $450, mint. The camera looks like it was hardly used if at all it looks like new. I love the way it feels in my hands and the shutter sound, I use it with a Sony Carl Zeiss 85mm f1.4 and a Minolta 35mm f1.4 and get fantastic results with Portra 160 and Fuji Pro 400H. I switched from Nikon digital to Sony A line, just so I could use my Minolta glass. Keep up the great work.
With a lot of delay, thanks for this video. The photos are superb and trigger in me an irresistible desire to buy! It must be said that this device is my favorite.
Thank you!
Just bought one of these. Video manual needed!!
This will be in the next batch of video manuals that I record.
Finally got my 9. It is not as heavy as I expected. So far shoots great with the 50. Thanks for the review. 1 roll for each 28-50-100.
Nice! It's an amazing camera.
I'm sad after my 3rd roll my Minolta 9 gave in. The shutter just doesn't want to click. I'm thinking if i should buy another one or just sell the lenses i bought. I hope after development the 3 rolls will come out worth.
That's really bizarre. What else is your camera doing or not doing?
It does everything. The button just doesn't makes the shutter work. I focuses but never opens the shutter at whatever shutter speed. Will cost JPY30,000 to repair. I'd rather buy an adapter and use the lenses on an emount than repair it. Giving up on this Minolta 9.
Great images and review David! Of course I had to look this up after you had hinted at this camera in your Pentax LX review. My wife got a Minolta for her grad around 1985 - I think it was a 5000 - will have to check. Anyway - if I ever do pick up an alpha 9 we will already have a lens or two for it! The flash sync speed, maximum shutter speed, and viewfinder coverage on this camera sound out of this world, even by 2019 standards!
Thank you, Lyndon! This camera is still a delight to use today.
I'm 45. Ordered an Alpha9 from Japan a few minutes ago. Can't wait to use it, As it was my dream camera 20 years ago :-)
We are the same children who drooled at these. with a credit card...
I hear ya and good buy! These are still wonderful to use.
@@DavidHancock Thanks! My only fear, After using the F3, M2 and P67 - Is that it will be "too digital-ish" like I felt with the F5.
I worried about that, too. Ultimately, for me, it didn't because of the dial-based interface. But, if it does, you can always resell it for close to what you bought it for.
David Hancock Yeah. Good points! Thanks.
By the way: How is the a7 compares to the a9 in your experience and opinion?
What are your impressions of the camera so far?
Amazing review, sounds like you found a tool to meet your skills. Love the music, story and personal depth of this one. Also giving me terrible GAS ;)
That 9 is worth it.
When you have GAS every piece of gear is worth it :/
As many have mentioned and can be seen on Ebay, the 'rubber grip' isn't a simple cover where one can simply re-glue it. - It's a solid injection molded component which engulfes the entire grip chassis along with the hand contacts etc. ; it just crumbles like a deteriorating 'Superball' - With no replacement parts available, one will need to fashion some kind of putty or clay to squeeze-form a grip around that zone of the chassis and contacts etc..
In time, I would think so, yes. Another option is, after cleaning it, to coat it with clear nail polish which will trap the rubber suffering plasticizer migration.
Great, as always. What's the difference between the Alpha and the Maxxum/Dynax?
Same thing. Alpha was the designation on the Japanese (and possibly other Asian) market(s).
Thank you!
gsxkatana is correct. The difference is only the name painted on the camera. Maxxum was used in North America (and maybe South, too?), Dynax in Europe and Africa, and Alpha in Asia. When Sony bought the Maxxum line from Konica Minolta they dropped, wisely, the Maxxum and Dynax badging and went with Alpha worldwide. I think that if Konica Minolta had done that they may have fared better in terms of market share.
Dynax was also in Australia - my one and only Minolta camera was a Dynax 3xi. It was a good one too - I saw one a few months ago, used as a demo prop in a clinical photography rig, and got all nostalgic. Sadly, by the time I could afford a replacement with my own money, Minolta were Konica Minolta and I could smell the end coming. Also, digital was on the horizon and I saw it as a useful tool to generate medical student teaching images quickly (same day). I felt it better to wait until that had matured to the point where I felt it could compete at least at 6x4 size. When that day arrived, Minolta had gone.
This got me hyped. Nice to see videos like this on forgotten goodies. Gotta say part of me really wants the 7 but I keep hearing about reliability due to age. I think I’ll get both lol
:D
Just ordered one, can't wait. Great video.
Thank you and good choice!
awesome work! how does it compare to the Canon EOS 3? I'm torn! What about lens options? thx
I much prefer this to the 3, having used both.
@@DavidHancock thanks, again! i just bought one from Japan! i can't wait!
I'm really looking forward to getting this one someday!I I shoot analog with a Minolta SRT101 and a 400si. Digital with a Sony a99 and a KM7D. I've tried other cameras but no one comes close in having the right feeling as the KM7D and I can imagine the 9 being even better!
I even got a Canon Eos 1V today with the vertical grip and holding in and then the KM7D I do have a hard time imagine how Minolta could not have been a bigger player amongst the pros..
Nice! These are really fun to shoot. I still use mine regularly.
beautiful photos full of vitality
Thank you!
I enjoyed your photos a lot Dave. You may have mentioned this already, but what is your color film of choice?
Thank you!
If I had to only shoot one color film for the rest of my life, it would be Ektar 100. I don't have a close second in color negative. Fuji Velvia 50 would be in for slide film.
Watching this seems like less a review for the Alpha 9 but rather a love letter. Great video.
I will note that Minolta did have a couple of Pro bodies after the XK/X-1 with the 9000 and 9xi, but neither have the lasting reputation the 9 or XK has.
Thank you!
I didn't realize that the 9000 was a pro-level body. I thought it was what we'd call now a prosumer grade camera.
@@DavidHancock The 9000 was the first pro camera with AF in the 80´s. Unfortunately Minolta never became a player in the pro market on a level with Nikon and Canon. Theier cameras were techical often 3 years before ahead before the competition but minolta became never the choice of the pros. Minolta never offered a pro service and that kept them out of the pro market.
i've just inherited a Dynax 9. its been a very long time since i have used a film camera. I'm looking forward to trying it out. but i'm thinking i maybe should have it looked at. professionally, as i'm not sure how long it's been stood, unused. It could have dust inside that would affect image quality.
thanks for the video review. Any hints or tips concerning loading film or test shot to do would be appreciated.
Thank you!
You can probably just clean it and it will be in good shape. Cleaning it would be similar to cleaning a lens, but with less cleaning fluid, or none, if possible.
For testing, just pick a film that's cheap but that you know. Then just shoot around the neighborhood for that roll and develop it. That should tell you how well the camera is working. Try it on different settings and with different exposure times, but I'd be surprised if the camera wasn't working.
@@DavidHancock thanks for replying 🙂
Thank you for your valuable inputs. I went for the 28f2.8 50f1.7 and 100f2.8 macro. I dont often use the 85 so I didnt see any reason to get another 85. also I used the budget instead to go for the horseman vh as a starter for large format. Im so excited for both cameras to arrive.
Oh wow. Nice set up. I'm really envious.
nice review! just want to ask what are the outstanding lenses to get with this camera? the selection is too much for me to decide :D
I only have two -- the 50mm f/1.4 and the 28mm f/2.8. Most if not all of the Alpha primes are great. I also have an M42 to Alpha adapter that lets me use some M42 lenses on this camera, too.
@@DavidHancock any recommendations for 28-[any_length] zoom lens ? i'm on the fence of getting a body after watching this video, but I can only settle for one lens. i like 28mm a lot for landscape and environmental portraits and also would love to have a longer focal length, could be 70mm above. I checked some of the websites and the selection is overwhelming. any recommendations? :)
@@jcera8554 unfortunately no. I'm not the person to ask about zooms. I own one. I'm a prime lens user.
Hi David, I'm just in the process of purchasing an Alpha 9 from Japan. I'm looking for a kick-ass 50mm for it. Which one do you recommend? Thanks in advance.
I have the 50mm f/1.4 and it's spectacular. I also had the 50mm f/1.7 for a long time and it was a great lens, but slightly softer in the corners than the 1.4. If the 1.4 is too spendy, the 1.7 is a great alternative.
my long time dream camera
A great dream camera! The prices on them have been all over the place in the last couple of years. I've seen road warriors go for $500 and then ones like mine, which is absolutely mint, for less than $200, all without any discernible reason.
too expensive for me and to be honest can't justify it having already 12 film slr cameras
You're a dangerous man. I bought the Bronica S2a because of your review. And here I am watching this video. You're good, dude, sir.
Thank you! :D
I watched this review because I loved my 7D, now I have to answer a very difficult question: start using my F4 again, get my FA repaired, or get an Alpha 9. You’ve actually made it easier (harder) with your reviews as comparisons. Would be easier if I could afford one with the SSM upgrade but that’s just chasing stars for me.
Thanks a bunch, in a good way, mostly!
Thank you!
So my only consideration for you would be your lenses. If you had no camera gear and wanted a 35mm film SLR, I'd say get the 9. But if you're invested in some Nikon lenses, go with the F4.
@@DavidHancock Problem is, I have both!!!
I’m leaning towards Nikon as the F4 was in the wild longer and there are more parts and experienced repair personnel out there.
Really love the Minolta layout though.
Great video David. I got an a9 too. Great camera! I enjoyed your video and pictures. I'm gotta make a video about it one of these days :)
Thank you, Rob! Let me know when you do.
What an inspiring review. The first line of this video is enough for me to buy the camera! Well, its should arrive from Japan anytime soon. Been trying to find an 85mm that I can use for Sony A7 as well. Can you possibly tell me if I can use Sony 85mm f1.8 for the Nine, considering my camera has surely not been updated to use SSM lens. Thanks.
Thank you!
I believe that you can use the Alpha 85, f/1.8 with an Alpha to E adapter. I am not 100% certain on that so there may be someone out there who knows more about Sony than I who could confirm that.
WOW! What a great review. I definitely want one now!
Thank you!
@@DavidHancock Ended up buying one .
Nice. I would imagine you'll be very happy. These are great cameras.
@@jazazrielpamaran9092 how is it?
@@olsonbryce777 Fantastic! It's a gem!
those pictures are stunning !
Thank you! This was a camera that I really wanted to have nice photos to show alongside the narration.
So David, what is the difference between this camera, and a Minolta Maxxum 9xi? Same camera, different badge?
Nope, they are different cameras. The 9xi preceded this one. I haven't ever seen one of those so I can't tell you all the differences, but there were some functional, and certainly quality, improvements between the 9xi and 9.
I have found an excellent condition dynax9 with the grip, dedicated flash and data back for 700€. Do you think, that's a lot? No lens in the kit. But the data back I really want and not easy to find it independently.
That would be a bit expensive in my book. Were I to sell mine with no lens, I would list it at USD $400.
@@DavidHancock Yeah, I'm sure you're right David. And it's not even the DM-9 as I originally thought. It's the DQ that only imprints the date on the frame.
I would pass on that and keep checking other sources. There should be a better price available.
Outstanding review and pictures to accompany it! What is the current price of this gem (to substitute my aging 600 Si), what are the pitfalls on the electronics and will the HS5400 flash work on it?
Thank you!
These are going for anywhere from $300 to $600, depending on if they have a lens or not and their condition. The electronics on these seems to be a-okay so far. I've heard of one with a shutter release issue on the board but otherwise these seem to be stable, reliable cameras.
I'm not sure about the flash.
David Hancock Thanks for the report. I was uneasy about it as it is the same age as my 600 Si and I've thrown $200 to repair both bodies and only to see them fail again. It's perhaps the fulfilling of the need to have a Swiss Army knife that can tackle all photography without a hickup that makes me conserve the Minolta Lenses camera and flash.
I've watched this so many times I'm really so fascinated by it. The way you make the videos makes me really want to go out and buy one. Now trying to order through JCH. Wanted the 9Ti but I don't know if worth it without SSM or a Minolta 9 with SSM? Any suggestion? Also confused with the lens. Definitely a 28-50-85 combination. That 85 F1.4 just looks so good. 28F2 or F2.8 is enough? 50F1.4 or is 1.7 enough?
Thank you! Let me see if I can help with the answers:
1- Finding a 9 with SSM is going to be hard and there's not a whole lot of benefit unless you have the specific SSM lenses. The new, eight-pin non-SSM lenses are backward compatible with the five-pin early Alpha mount bodies. My 9 doesn't have SSM and I was using an eight-pin STF lens with no issues.
2- The 85 1.4 is supposed to be an amazing lens, but I haven't used it. With a lens with those specs and cost, no company will release a sub-par version.
3- I have the 50mm 1.7 and really like it. Given that they go for about $40 to the 1.4's approximately $250+, I haven't been able to justify the upgrade to the 1.4
Also, if you're not averse to manual focus lenses, pick up a chipped M42 adapter and you can use all kinds of great M42 lenses with the 9 in aperture priority mode.
@@DavidHancock I have the Dynax 9 and got it upgraded to use SSM lens. Paired with the Minolta 70-200 f2.8 G lens made for a fantastic (although heavy) photographic tool. Your video brought back a lot of memories. My only other G lens was the 85mm f1.4. To this day I still make occasional use of the G lenses on my Sony Alpha camera.
How does it compare to the maximum 7? Aside from weight, is the quality different? Photo quality or
Photo quality depends on the film, lens, and the photographer. Your camera has almost zero influence on the photo quality as long as it performs properly.
@@DavidHancock so then ultimately no difference, if you had the same lenses?
@@Linked02 That is correct.
Finally got the results of the shots that I took. And wow. The meter is the best! I have never shot a roll with so many focused shots. The af is great.
Since my shutter button is broken and used the vertical grip to shoot It became so heavy. I will definitely get another one if I cant get this fixed. Now the 9Ti looks worth every penny although not needed because it will just be another clutter. Thanks for this video!
That's fantastic! I do hope you can fix it. Are you in the U.S., or willing to ship here? I might know a guy. I can check to see if he fixes these.
I'm in the Philippines. Shipping might be too expensive but I might be able to find a way. Do refer me so I'll know the price estimate.
Some picture flic.kr/p/QUztTD
Thanks David.
Nice shots! I liked one one of the propped fishing rod, the nose-on shot of the fishing boat, and the dog. The photo of the guy in the hoodie on the fishing boat is the best, I think, in the lot. That's a really nice photo.
I sent Mike an e-mail about the Nine shutter button. I'll let you know, either way, if he can fix it.
I talked to Mike. He said the issue is probably not repairable any more. The problem is likely electronic and not physical, and he doesn't have any spare parts for the 9. The last shop that was repairing them stopped about eight or so years ago, too. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. :(
It is possible that someone out there is repairing them and no one that I know is aware of them. Photo.net has a good photo repair community and people there know of some shops I'm not familiar with. So they might be worth asking.
David Hancock Thanks Im very flattered you like the pic. I guess I just have to buy another body.
I really need to reduce my gear. I have to start learning to sell some stuff. The vertical grip is just too heavy.The body is just right. Thanks.
Hi David, I am an enthusiast that is pendulum-swinging back from digital to film (imagine that!). I Have a Sony a77 with a couple of lenses (brand new sony's 50 and 11-16) and two older af lenses (an 35-80 macro and a beercan). I was hooping to get your opinion about which way to go; get me a Minolta Alpha 7 and use the lenses I already have in it or get me a XD11 with a couple of old manual lenses (with hopes of using them also in my sony a77). The prices listed on both are pretty much the same. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!
Were it me, I would stick with the same lens mount. I'm in the long process of thinning my camera collection. I realized one day that I have a 50mm f/1.4 for each camera system I have. So that was like 16 50mm f/1.4 lenses. What a ridiculous state of affairs that is. If you have Alpha lenses, I'd go with the 7, which is a fantastic camera and MUCH more capable than the XD11.
Wow! Thank you very much for taking the time to write me back! I really appreciated that! I went your way and got me the Alpha 7. The camera is awesome! Could not resist and shot an entire roll of 36 with it as soon as it came thru the door. Brilliant viewfinder, quick focus and stellar metering! I am officialy blown away by it... happy as a clam! I've been following your videos and because of them got me also an Yashica Electro 35 (another gem)! I am a big fan of your work, keep it up! Julio - Recife, Brazil
Thank you! :D
thanks David for the nice video. it made me get a Minolta 9 to go with my Minolta 7 and 5D. Too bad Minolta had to get out of the camera business. they made my favorite 35mm cameras and lenses.
The 9 changed my entire view of Minolta cameras. Up to it I had used the 7000, SPxi, and a few other entry-level bodies and had a soft of 'meh' reaction. But, man, their top-end gear was amazing. I'm thinking that I may pick up a 5D or maybe a newer Sony body when I do my X-1 video and have a bit more room in my Minolta case. I'm just amazed whenever I get to shoot with this camera.
+David Hancock yeah they had a huge difference between the entry level and their high end cameras. it must of turn people off to other brands.
As for the 5d. It is my favorite DSLR I have used. it just feels right in my hands and is a joy to shoot. Being modeled after the minolta 7 and 9 helped a lot (mainly the 7). I'd highly recommend one.
+David Hancock excited to see the video on the X-1. I had one but traded it and all my lenses for a Crown Graphic system and film.
I’m looking into one of those, great review. One question though, how did you get the astrophotography shots? Did you use a star tracker?
Thank you! These are awesome cameras. For the astrophotography I used an iOptron. I forget the specific model, but it was the $300 unit about five years ago. It's been superseded by a much better unit since then.
Can't wait to buy one and pair it with the 28-135, I love that lens. Can't wait 😁
Nice! That will work well.
what I love most about my a-9 is that all my Sony glass will work on it...but even better, the 85/1.4 + 135/1.8 zeiss lenses will autofocus on it with amazing results...it truly is the best of both worlds...
Absolutely. It's got such a great lens lineup supporting it thanks to Sony. I'm endlessly enamored with it.
5 years later this video has a lot of weight to it. I’m a huge fan of Minolta, and ironically I ended up being a Sony camera man a year and a half later after using strictly film. Thank you for this educating photo essay/informational.
My only question, because I have a Minolta Maxxum 7000, is what key differences should I expect if I place my order for a Alpha 9?
Thank you and the 9 is a significantly upgraded camera vs the 7000 with more features and better build quality.
I know this is an old video, but how did you make your pictures so good? Did you develop and scan the films yourself? I could never get similar results from a lab, no matter how much I paid.
Well, firstly, thank you very much. I appreciate the compliment. As for my results, color negative film I have lab scanned (Old School Photo Lab has been my go-to for a decade now.) For slide film (it's hard to tell which is slide and which is C-41 in a video) I have them developed and then digitize them myself. For black and white, I develop and digitize myself. I do have a video posted about DSLR digitization that covers the gear and process and it could put you pretty far down the path of getting better digital image from film. A big part of my workflow is using my DSLR to capture raw files and then editing the raw files.
I still have this awesome monster!
Nice! They are pretty great cameras.
What would be the digital camera equivalent of the Minolta 9 in terms of shooting experience for you ?
One of the early Sony DSLRs or the Minolta DSLRs would be the closest in terms of layout and interface.
Love this video I have my old beloved 9 in storage unused for far too long. I'm getting that legend out and running a roll of HP5 through it very soon. I'll make a video of the experience. Thanks for the inspiration David, new subscriber for you. Regards Paul
Thank you!
Ahh, the 9. Sadly I don't have it. I do have the 7 though, which is pretty amazing as well.
The 7 is also nice and has some advantages, I'm told. I haven't used the 7, but the STF simulation fascinates me (enough that I researched how to do it and wrote an article that detailed how to simulate STF lens effects for both digital and film cameras earlier this year.) The 7 is a great camera, too.
Amazing Video David..,,..
Thank you!
I just ordered a Canon eos 1n from japan. Then I watched your review on the 1v and this one. Now I want to order a Minolta too haha. Great review thank you for sharing.
Thank you! I do have a preference for the Alpha 9, but that's generally based on interface preferences on my part.
Just picked one up mint on eBay for $156… gonna use it for street. Thanks for the review and how-to’s!
Nice!
what set of lenses do you use David? Really nice pics by the way.
Thank you!
In this video the two most used lenses were (in this order) the Sony 135mm f/2.8 T/4.5 STF, Minolta 50mm f/1.7, Vivitar 135mm f/2.5 in M42 mount. Takumar 17mm f/2 fisheye, and Takumar 105mm f/2.8.
Thanks for the great videos on this. Can someone comment as to the ability to easily shoot partial rolls and reload?
Thank you and I have a full video manual series on this camera that goes over all the operational details, too.
Hello David , I try to get one from eBay . But i have a question about if the camera has any issues , where i can fix it ? thanks
Oh gosh. That's a good question. You'd probably need to contact individual repair firms and ask if they repair this model. Spares are very hard to come by and Minolta was never good about supporting repair firms in the first place, so finding a repair for these could be exceedingly hard.
And watching this video in 2021, $180 +postage could get you a alpha 9 with the 25-85mm f3.5 lens, the camera I wanted back in the 90's but had to make do with my old 7xi before moving to Nikon digital about 12 or 13 years ago. But I still might get one yet 😏😉
what is the longest MM in minolta or sony lens you could put on this Camera for bird/sports photography?
I don't recall the longest Minolta Alpha lens, but there's no maximum limit short of what you can buy.
What are some good lens to go with these? Does there exist any F mount to Alpha mount adaptor without any lens elements between them?
There are a ton of great A mount lenses, include the Sony A mount lenses. I'm not aware of an F to A adapter but there are chipped M42 to A adapters that are relatively inexpensive and useful. There are a LOT of great M42 lenses out there and a couple of M42 adapters is a great way to expand a lens lineup quickly.
Fantastic review! Sounds like it's the Daniel Day Lewis of film cameras :)
:D
Beautiful review and stunning images. What is the film you've used for color landscapes, Natura 1600?
BTW, I can also recommend several other Minolta AF cameras.
7 is internally even more advanced than 9 and has a very useful rear LCD. It is probably my favorite 35mm SLR camera. Great joy to use. Worst build quality I've seen.
9xi is quite unique. The simplest interface ever put to a top of the line AF SLR, has reliable AF and metering. Much lighter than 9. Has a few quirks that you may hate.
If you like using m42 glass on the 9, you should also try a 9000. It has a useless AF but has one of the best metering modes I've seen (H/S), is pretty lightweight and with the manual film advance lever, it's simply cool. Has MF confirmation for m42 lenses too. Too bad that two copies that I have have failed (stuck shutter) on me(actually my gf). One of my favorite cameras(hers too).
Thank you! For the images, I used Natura and other films. Do you have one or more you're curious about the film selection for?
I thought about the 7 but decided on the 9 because it lacked the LCD. I admit that I'm very curious about the 7's STF simulation. I wrote an article for Pentax Forums on STF simulation where I reverse-engineered the approach and was able to simulate STF lens results using film and old M42 lenses on the 9 (and other cameras.)
What is H/S metering?
I'm curious about some of the shots. The ones at 0:15, 4:43, 7:02 are a few.
I remember someone simulating the STF effect on an old Olympus lens on LensRentals Photo geek contest a few years ago. The link is here but sadly the images are gone:
www.lensrentals.com/blog/2013/11/photo-geek-contest-2013-winners/
Scroll down to Gaussian Approximation. It's a shame we can't do this on digital cameras automatically today. It should be so easy to pull of, even during a single exposure. Instant good bokeh for every lens.
H/S metering is a clever thing. Basically, the camera has a spot meter with three different settings. First one is normal spot metering. H setting is for the highlights, with +2.3EV exposure compensation. S is for the shadows, it has -2.7EV exposure compensation dialed in automatically. These values are where the film still maintains texture detail in highlights and shadows respectively on most film stocks.
You simply turn the metering to Shadow mode, point the camera at the shadow area where you still want detail. Camera measures accordingly. No need to mess around with exposure compensation with anything, it's pretty quick. Or if you are shooting slide film, simply turn it to Highlight mode and take measurement of the area you still want detail. Job done.
These functions are available with m42 lenses too, along with the MF confirmation with > o < arrows to indicate which way to turn the focus ring to. Pretty nice things when you're shooting fully manual lenses.
obican For the three photos, those are Natura, Natura, and Ektar, respectively.
For STF simulation, it can't be done on digital camera because they use scanning sensors and not universal sensors. Universal sensors work like film and all the pixels receive all their allocated photos the whole time. Scanning sensors receive light a few lines at a time in a repeated image scan. STF simulation, in-camera, wouldn't work with a scanning sensor unless it combined multiple images. The way it SHOULD work is to have a universal sensor and then simulate the STF image with aperture control (stopping down the aperture at a slowly reducing speed from wide-open would simulate the STF effect and delivery a proper exposure.)
H/S metering sounds amazing. That would be an incredibly powerful tool. I'm not sure why more camera makers don't include something like that.
I think it can be done but you'd need two mechanical shutters. Electronic first curtain wouldn't work. Also, aperture blades should be able to move at the required speed, which may dictate a minimum shutter speed requirement.
Only a few cameras had the H/S metering feature. Some Oly models (OM-4 comes to my mind) had it. Canon T90 kinda had it. 9xi has it, depending on the function card inserted. It is also possible to configure a Minolta 7 for this mode, using the 1&2 settings on the mode dial. Still, 9000 probably had the best implementation.
David, not getting the distinction you make on Alpha, Maxxum, Dynax. It's all the same camera?
Yes they are. The names were different by market. The Alpha was the Japan name. Dynax was used in Europe and, I think, Africa. Maxxum was for North America.
The Dynax 9, 7, 7D, 5 are my favorite design EVER.
Still gave me butterfly in my stomach by just watching it pictures,
I hate Sony for not using this gorgeous design for Modern A/E mount Cameras.
The Dynax 9 & 7 Wins Many Awards around the Globe,
including the most prestige Japan Camera Grand Prix, beats Canikon.
I love them, too. I just got an Alpha Sweet II (Dynax 5) in black last week. I like the 5 a LOT, more than the 7, in fact. They hit a real home run with that generation of camera bodies.
David Hancock -
I have the Silver Dynax 5 also, with silver lens
Great Retro Modern, with Superior Simplicity & Ergonomics.
Its really a great small slr, better design than any small dslr these days.
The bulit quality is great, with Smooth Vibration Mirror Flapping
and Best Shutter Sound in class.
(unlike Canikon)
I found even the 1986 Minolta a7000 have a great Shutter Sound.
PS: Get the Battery Grip its great
my first 35 mm camera was the Minolta srt 101, it finally bit the dust. What are you doing for lenses?
Well, one drawback to doing so many videos is that I'm invested in basically every camera system. I'm planning to pare down a few but will be keeping the 9 and adding a couple more A lenses in the future. Right now my only A lens is a 50mm 1.7, which is a great lens. I picked up the $12 M42 adapter so that I could use my old M42 lenses on the 9 and that's worked very well. I really enjoyed the 135mm STF lens and would seriously consider getting that at some point.
This is a camera that I look at every so often and have almost pulled the trigger on purchasing at least ten times. The only reason I haven't is because I own a Maxxum 7 (and completely love it!) and the Maxxum 9 doesn't seem all that much different except for a bigger and more rugged body. That being said, I want it anyway even though it is not totally rational. Sometimes buying a camera isn't a rational decision. lol.
I have both. If you're happy with the 7, there's no reason to go to the 9. I like 9 more because the interface is a bit more responsive to changing conditions. The 7 is a bit technical with screens and menus for some functions. But going from a 7 to a 9 won't be a life-changing experience.
David Hancock that is pretty much what I figure. I do like that the 9 is more robust though as I do take a camera out to the coast often. I also like the lack of the back screen. It's kinda cool on the 7, but ultimately unecessary. These days I'm noticing lots of 9's for under $300 so there is a part of me that is kinda like.. "ehhh, why not!?" I mean, I do consider the 7 in my experience to be the gold standard of a "modern" SLR. If the 9 just improves it that tiny little bit much more then it could be cool.
Less than $300 for a 9 is a great price, especially if it includes a lens.
Amazing video man! Beautiful pictures of flowers in monochrome. Which film did you use for those? And thank you for uploading this.
Thank you!
Do you have the time stamp for the photos you're curious about? I can probably tell you by looking at them.
that chipped m42 is so interesting. I love manual focus. will definitely explore this. sad I cant use my md lenses with this.
Yeah, I agree about the MD lenses. I would have loved to have used the 58mm 1.4 on this.
I wanted an Alpha also for the same reason. It is the brand Sony now uses by default, not Maxxum, not Dynax, but Alpha. Sometimes it makes me want to be a total brand snob and put a Zeiss lens on the front, my 7 supports SSM. Your 9 may do (but it's a bit hit and miss as to whether the person who originally had it had the custom (send away) firmware update installed. They really are great cameras. The A9 now lives on with the Sony A9, but it's a bit of a shame that there were no successors to either the A7 or the A9.
Same. When I got my 9, I wanted an Alpha. It's harder to find nice ones cheaply with the badge, but it fits with my Sony mirrorless more than a Maxxum.
However what about the lenses? It seems that the least talked about part of the Minolta AF ecosystem are the lenses, which makes someone wonder whether there are any good. Definitely there shouldn't be top notch - talking about glass quality more than anything else - otherwise there would have been more referenses online than what they are. I would love to hear your opinion on the best lenses of the system that you have experience of and perhaps point to some sources for lens reviews etc. Thanks!
The lenses are good. Some of the Sony A lenses are the same optical designs developed by Minolta in the 90s. Plus you can use modern Sony A lenses, which are excellent.
One thing about camera gear reviews, many of them have historically been either paid for by the makers or been based on loaner gear (sometimes loaner gear with no return date) provided to the reviewers. Loaner gear from a maker to a reviewer won't come with an explicit quid pro quo to provide a good review, but no reviewer will jeopardize a source of free gear (except this reviewer, but that's another story.)
Thank you so much for this review !
Thank you!
one last question. will you record video manual for this beautiful camera? :)
Metin Veznedar Yes, I will. I haven't filmed the manual yet, but when I do it will get edited go live fairly quickly. I'm not sure when my next shooting day will be yet. I think I'll have four or so cameras to do that day (Olympus OM-1, Minolta X-700 and X-370, Canon FTb, and maybe a Hassleblad.)
Many people say nikon is better than minolta in terms of lens quality, but as far as I have experienced, minolta has given me better picture quality! ! Even my maxxum 5 gives sharper image than nikon f100 for any kind of lens. Maxxum 9 gives unbelievable quality of pictures! Just amazing! Is it just me who think minolta produce the best picture quality out of all brands?
I do love my 9. I haven't shot the F5 yet, but I have shot the EOS 1, and I like the 9 a whole lot more than that. It's just a superb camera.
David Hancock Yes, indeed, minolta 9 is a superb one. It was sad minolta pulled the plug earlier.
I remember when the Maxxum 9 came out. I couldn't afford it. I was a broke young man. Lol. I'd ended up buying the Maxxum 7. I still own that innovative camera.
The 7 was definitely a great alternative to the 9.
Very good review.
Thank you!
I'm going to buy it from Japan with battery pack :) I want the whole thing! I fell in love with this camera since I got 9000 as a gift. But I still prefer my Fujica AX5 to Minolta 9000
Nice! These are awesome cameras. The AX5 is a really nice camera, too. I would likely also prefer it to a 9000.
What prime lenses would you pair with this camera?
I personally use a 50mm f/1.4 and a 28mm 2.8. I'm planning to get a 24mm 2.8 to replace the 28mm, but they're expensive lenses. I'd also like to get a 135mm STF for myself, but can't justify it. Those are all top-end lenses. Some excellent, more affordable lenses are the 50mm 1.7, which I used for a long time, the 28mm 2.8 which I currently have, and the Minolta 135 2.8, which is a nice lens. I tend to go for a 28, 60, and 135 as a basic kit as that covers about 95% of lens needs.
Here's a link to Dyxum's database on lenses:
www.dyxum.com/lenses
There are some excellent third-party options as well as Sony-made lenses.
haha. Im more envious of all the time you have chosen to spend with anything photographyü
I seem to only have time at night to drool on cameras since I have work in the morning as my workflow.
I want to shoot more.
I spend my days feeling like I don't spend enough time on it! :D
When it gets dark here, as it's starting to now, early in the evening, I find myself doing more indoor work and tabletop stuff. It's a good way to keep active even with limited space and time.
Do you know if you can switch off the ird light on the front of the camera? Thanks
It only turns on when needed in low light for focusing. If there is a way to disable it, that would be covered in the third part of my three-part video manual series for this camera. That's linked in the description for this video.
@@DavidHancock I watched this videos several times .. must have missed. Watch again. Thanks for your help.
@@DavidHancock I watched again and looks like there is no option to switch this off..
@@TheMavBlack l thought that was the case. It's only works when needed and shouldn't be visible.
@David Hancock I just double checked cause on minolta maximum 7 i have this option 😊. Anyway, I have one more question for you. Do you know is is any adapter or something that made autofocus works on newer lenses for example Sony A mount 70-200? All newer lenses is working on maxxum 7 but unfortunately not working on maxxum 9.
I hope to see a video review on the Minolta Maxxum/ dynax/ a-7 camera soon, it's the cousin to the Minolta a-9 , with the LCD screen interface.
I'm shooting with it off and on. I have the 5 with me right now, though.
David Hancock I see. It's such a nice camera that appeals to me on either models 7 or 9, because a UA-cam user uploaded an old 9 min promotional video about the 9 from Minolta. I keep going back to it and watch it again and again and especially the part of the high frame rate of 5.5 fps and record fast rewind time. I reckon you could watch the promo video it's awesome. I could post the link in comments if you'd like.
That would be great! I'd love to watch that.
It's a sale, I gotta get me one of those, thanks for the review :)
Nice! You'll be happy with it.
I recently lost my a7. It just up and died. I love my XE-7s but I really want an a9. It's just too perfect to not have one.
The 9 is a huge step up from the 7. I've had five, I think, 7 bodies now. And only one was fully functional. They've not aged nearly as well as the 9.
1:12 Surprised Owl is perfectly synced to your comment on flash speed!
Seriously, though, how the hell can any company create a camera this good and still go to the wall? It just doesn't make sense.
:D
As for why this camera didn't pump all kinds of life into Minolta, it's marketing. Sony's Betamax was a better product than the VHS, but Sony's marketing failed and so did Betamax. That's why, 30 years later, Sony marketed the heck out of BluRay (even though the advanced DVD were a better product from a technical perspective) and made BluRay the successful heir to DVDs. It's Marketing. Canon did (and still do) it well. Nikon did (and still do) it decently. Pentax, Minolta, Miranda, Olympus, not so much. And it's also the type of client that the brands attract. Canon and Nikon attract rabid followers. And while each brand has, to an extent, it's rabid following those followings are smaller (in raw numbers and as a percentage of the whole) for the other brands. The interfaces are different and, I think, the differences in interface attract a different type of photographer with a different mindset and different approach.
Pentax make a good enough camera that people just keep on buying it, though there are a couple of times since 2000 that it's been terribly close to the precipice and Ricoh are arguably Pentax's salvation. Ex-SLR-makers themselves, I think they appreciate the Pentax legacy. They followed Pentax into K-mount in the 70's and probably could not bear to see it fail.
That aside, it's people like you, Ed at Photouniverse and Spyros Heniadis who give Pentax its biggest boost on YT. I haven't yet come across anyone else in the English-speaking world who is as enthusiastic about the brand. I keep on thinking about doing some vids myself, but can never find the time. Maybe one day...
That's what I call a rave review! I wonder how it compares to Nikon's F6?
I wonder, too. :D I haven't gotten to use an F6 yet.
What film were you using for the picture at 9:41-9:45?
Fuji Natura 1600. My All About Film video for that film is rendering as I write this response, so check tomorrow for the Fuji Natura All About Film video to be uploaded.
Wow would never of guessed fuji. I love the unique look it has.
How does this guy compare to the canon EOS 3?
Way better. I find that the interface on this, and the smaller size and lighter weight, make it a much more enjoyable camera to use.
@@DavidHancock thanks I've never used minolta or their lenses so I was a bit concerned about jumping into the system
@@drparham Their lenses are great. I think their 50mm 1.7 use one of the two best 1.7 fast fifties that I've used.
@@DavidHancock thanks again u make great content btw
I got my 9 (yes, I also bought the Alpha for the badge) for $208 from someone who gave up film. I know they're all the same, but the Alpha badge just seems right due to the fact Sony settled on Alpha.
I concur completely. :D I was using this camera today, too.
@@DavidHancock Mine lacks the SSM upgrade sadly, but considering how much I have seen some of them go for otherwise I'm totally fine with that if that's the only downside to getting a good deal on a 9, much less an Alpha badged body. Kind of a bummer, but I feel like I got lucky to get mine for what I did.
also i'm not brand loyal, i take on items and things kind of like one would at a buffet, if it's good i'll put it on my plate and eat it, BUT i'm a beginner, i have done a lot with digital but film was already on it's way out when i was just a boy, i am starting to think i would like using this camera more than the canon EOS 1V , maybe i can rent them both someday or something, film has some kind of connection with my brain tho, i dunno why, i have collected so much film junk, old 8mm movie cameras, vintage SLR's but i want an SLR that is basically the same as a digital just not digital , like this camera in this review. using the canon A-1 i have is fun but i kind of want more.
The best advice I have for anyone getting into film is not to buy tons of gear. Pick a single system and stick with it until you really understand film. Learning lots of gear will only complicate the process.
I think this camera and a Nikon F5 are both on my wishlist for when I have money to burn. No lenses in either system (well, a couple Nikon lenses that came with a N70), as I'm mostly a Pentax shooter, but they both sound good.
I'd like to try an F5 someday. I'm gathering photos for the MZ-S video but that's still a ways out. I was surprised by how much I enjoy the MZ-S. I didn't expect to like it. I went into using it expecting I'd really, really dislike it, actually. But it's a nice little camera with very impressive performance.
I haven't had a chance to try the MZ-S, but it's strangely tempting to pick one up too. I look forward to your video on it.
I couldn't wait. Sold off a few, lesser used things to pick up a 9. Can't wait for it to arrive.
You'll spend a lot of time being very happy that you did. One great camera is worth more than 1,000 so-so cameras.
It just arrived (that was super fast shipping from Japan...) First impressions are VERY good. Probably the most well built camera I've ever held. Gotta say, as a Pentax shooter, I keep pressing the DOF preview button rather than the lens release lol.
Which is better? Minolta A9 or the Nikon F6.
I haven't tried the F6 yet so I can't really say.
1/12000sec maximum mechanical shutter speed is even impressive today. I don't know any current digital camera with 1/12000sec mechanical shutter speed (Not electronic shutter speed, that's a different story). The Minolta α9 was the pinnacle of film cameras however Canon and Nikon had better variety of lenses and prevailed.
Minolta purchased by Sony in 2006. I bet that many Minolta engineers are behind the success of mirrorless e-mount cameras in 2010, the α7 series in 2013 and the Sony α9 in 2017. After all the choice by Sony of the names α7 and α9 isn't accidental with the names of Minolta film cameras.
At 01:05 the flash sync of 1/300 sec with shutter curtain isn't the fastest ever. The Nikon D1, D1H, D1x and D70 have real 1/500th sec max sync with shutter curtain. (Not High Speed Sync with underpowered flash neither with leaf shutter)
Thank you! I didn't know that about the D1 series.
Thank you for sharing the wonderful review and photos.
I've been a Minolta fan since I started shooting with SLR.
a707, a7, SRT101, then finally a9 which I couldn't afford when it debuted long time ago.
One of the reasons I liked Minolta from the beginning was Ms. Candis Bergen appeared in their commercial footage as she was using XD:)
ua-cam.com/video/EwBv1NKD5KE/v-deo.html
I can never let go of my a9 once I shot with it.
Cheers:D
:)
David my Minolta Alpha 9 grip has cracked! Where can I find it?
Robert Bruce The battery grip out the plastic fascia on the camera's handle?
David Hancock it’s the on camera handle with comes with the hand sensors...
Yuck. I'm not sure if that's a simple covering or an integral part of the body. If it's loose and can come off, then a stop gap measure might be to remove it and re-place it with some adhesive-backed leather. If you can't remove it really easily, you can use a toothpick and some tiny drops of Pliobond in the cracks. Pliobond can be removed with rubbing alcohol, so if you mess up or it's ugly, you can remove it and try again. A light-duty clamp might be able to hold the plastic in piece so that the glue can dry without leaving a visible crack.
One other good thing about the Pliobond approach is that if it works and the glue fails in a year or so you can re-do it with a better glue like Gorrilla Glue clear knowing that the approach works.
David Hancock there should be a part number for this grip. I’m going to ask CameraRepair or some other shop and keep you posted!
Thank you!
Danget, i am sitting here now second guessing myself, cuz i just watched the review on the canon EOS 1V, now i watched this one and i want one of these now, i'm doomed, i'ma end up with 1500$ in old SLR cameras omg.
Definitely check out my Nikon F5 review, too.
Hmm it is heavy. might have had a good sleep when I opened the box or maybe adrenalin pumping and felt strong. It is 1.2kg with 50 lens.
It's heavy; that's all the stainless steel inside.
@@DavidHancock Is the film-door also steel, or aluminum/magnesium alloy?
And I thought Nikon F6 was the most advanced 35mm SLR ever made...
That's good marketing on Nikon's part. I'd place it second, which is not at all shabby.
doesent it irritate you wene you see all these washed out life less award winning photographs your photos are alive and great
Thank you. I tend to see all people as being on a path and I recognize in other work that I don't like as much as my best work image approaches that I once used. And I recognize in work that I like much more than my own (of which there is a lot) approaches to the subject which are are compassionate and filled with narrative depth. I do try hard to bring a lot of life to my images, and I think most photographers do, but not everyone has learned how yet to do that within the confines of their creative vision or voice.
As much as I wanted a 9, I settled for a 7. I missed the 7…
That 7 is also a fine camera.
*7:52* And that's what you and I call a *STEAL!!!* (no -pantsu theft- KonoSuba reference here)
I searched for it on eBay and luckily I've found out that they do sell it for USD 199 (loose) up to USD 369 (boxed)... I want to try that one out very soon...
I lucked out big time with this find. But I also looked at them for a year, I think, before buying. Patience is the key to good camera deals on eBay.
@@DavidHancock Have you tried shooting it at 1/12000? And if yes, what film speed you've used?