Rolleiflex 6000 series / SLX - which one to get?

[GarageBoy]

So my dad has a few 80 Planars from back when he used an SLX. Which is the most reliable 6000 series Rolleiflexes? The 6008 is a little out of my price range
Thanks

 

[whlogan]

Well, I have both. the only problem I have had with the 6008 is well, 2) really, is 1) the batteries go out in a flash of time so, I rebuilt them and now they are fine... about $35 each... great camera, leading to problemo 2) which is that it is a cinder block of a camera... heavy and bulky, but with that 80mm Planar it cannot be beat.... No, Sir.
The SLX uses the same PLANAR, making that a wash. The meter on the SLX is a bit clunky but works well. batteries are a problem but easily rebuilt. Good camera as well. The only push is the price. So, get the SLX and get used to it and see if the features of a 6006 or 6008 are what you need and jump that way keeping the SLX as back-up. That's what I did. Oh, and I got two SL66's into the bargain which I like even better.
Logan

 

[ic-racer]

I sold my SLX I owned since the early 1980s. The reason is that the 6008 is so much better. The 6008 holds the film flatter (than my SLX). The 6008 can be hand held at lower speeds then my SLX. These two key elements were so important, I sold th SLX so I'd not be tempted to ever use it again.

 

[frank]

There were 2 versions of the 6006. The second version corrected some problems that the first had. I'm afraid that's all I remember reading.

 

[TimVermont]

I recommend a 6003 Professional. Has all the needed features. I would not mix SLX (Mod 2 is the only one you want) with 6000 series as as the film inserts are not compatible even though they look similar.

 

[smolk]

The SLX, 6002 and 6006 cannot use the PQ/PQS lenses made for the 6001/6003/6008 integral (the 6008 professional may be different, I do not know).
The 6001 and 6003 can sometimes be found cheaper than the 6008i or later models.
Earlier lens models do fit later bodies but with certain restrictions

That said, earlier models and their lenses are great value if you do not plan to upgrade. Just go for the non-PQ(S) lenses and a 6002 or 6006.

I cannot compare actual use, as I only have the 6008i with 80/120mm and a 2x converter. I do love this camera, and the results are very, very good, the meter is very usable, but the package is not lightweight. I understand the 6001 and 6003 are lighter.

 

[Mackinaw]

The SLX, 6002 and 6006 cannot use the PQ/PQS lenses made for the 6001/6003/6008 integral.......

Partially true. You can use PQ lenses (but not PQS lenses) on a 6006, I regularly use a 50mm PQ on my 6006.

Jim B.

 

[GarageBoy]

Is there a compatibility list somewhere?

 

[Eric Rose]

I love my SLX. Have the 80mm and 50mm. Razor sharp, both of them. I have not had any problems with film not being flat enough in my SLX. The meter works fine and to bias exposure I just change the ASA rating.

 

[grimp0teuthis]

https://www.rolleigraphy.org/chart6000.php this will give you a rundown of the 6000 series' capabilities and compatibilities

 

[NJH]

GarageBoy you just need to keep watching the usual vendors and luck in when great deals come up. I got my 6008 pro complete outfit that way, delivered to my door from Ffordes for not much over £500. Like the others I love this camera except for one common issue which is wonky frame spacing if your swapping backs a lot mid roll.