RB67 vs Pro-SD vs 500ELM

[milkplus-mesto]

So, I hate to post "yet another" thread asking about MF systems, but I'm at a point where I can finally make a decision.

I'm in the UK, but I've realised it's possible to get a better deal importing from America using KEH, and I've been looking at the options there.

They are as follows:

1) Mamiya RB-67 Pro, with 127mm f/3.8 lens and WLF. for $220.

2) Mamiya RB-67 Pro-SD, with 90mm f/3.8 C lens and WLF, $330.

3) Hasselblad 500ELM with A12 back and 150mm f/4 C lens, $320

I should explain that weight is not really a problem, I know whatever I get will be heavy if I carry it around, and I know that in a studio situation they'll do a nice job, the question is which one you'd reccommend.

The condition on all of the components in question is BGN, but i know the 90mm C has some damage to the filter ring (i'm not really a "filter" sort of photographer, so I'm sure it won't affect me too much), but i'm confident that BGN will be good enough.

I just wanted to see the general opinion here, I know that the lenses are somewhat different, and with the Hasselblad that was more about keeping the cost down.

What would you use? I'm going to be shooting mostly portraits, with the odd "out and about" shot here and there, but I'm willing to put up with a heavy setup.

 

[peri24]

option 1
you can safe some money to burn film, and that 127mm is good as hell!

 

[2F/2F]

Since weight and size are not problems, I suggest kit number 2. The SD body has lens compatibility with some of the best lenses for the system, should you decide to go that route later. Also, the SD body will be newer, which is a plus in general when it comes to condition and likelihood that repairs and service will be needed...though each individual item's condition can be widely varied independent of age.

I assume the RBs come with a back...

The only time I would personally want to use a Hassy over an RB/RZ is if I wanted to keep the size down, for whatever reason. They are both excellent, but over all, the Mamiya system is better for me.

 

[Pumal]

I have a Mamiya RB6X7 Pro SD with 5 'C' lenses, 3 backs and a couple of extension tubes. They are great on a Tripod.

 

[Ektagraphic]

ProSD.

 

[Ric Trexell]

I'd go for the pro-sd

I think in some ways comparing the Mamiya's to the Hassy is an apple to oranges comparison. After all the one is a 6X6 and the others are 6X7's. I think the SD is a good value. Too bad the filter ring is banged up a little but that might be easily fixed. You might need to do a little work on the light seals but that isn't a big deal except for the one in the mirror. Even if you had to put another $200 in it you will have a good camera that will last for many years no doubt. The other advantage of the SD over the Pro is that you will have those interlocks which will prevent you from making some big goofs. Either lense will be great for portrait work, and that occasional picture out of the studio. I hope that helps. Ric.

 

[Jeff Kubach]

I'll go with the Pro-SD. Excellant camera.

Jeff

 

[dbonamo]

Pro-SD, newer camera, will take a 6x8 back if you choose to shoot that format also. Also I believe there are some improvements over the original

RB-67 Pro (1970-74)
RB-67 Pro-S (1974-90) = Pro + double-exposure interlock + viewfinder landscape / portrait orientation indicator + self-erecting focusing hood
RB-67 Pro-SD (1990-now) = Pro-S + larger bayonet mount in order to handle some newer KL lenses

Nice little write up is here http://www.photoethnography.com/ClassicCameras/index-frameset.html?MamiyaRB67.html~mainFrame