The best Minolta for me, x-700 or x-570?

redstarjedi · Jun 10, 2014

Hello, i have the opportunity to buy a completely refurbished minolta x-700 or x-570 from this ebay seller who has done a though CLA http://www.ebay.com/itm/380920652775?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649. Much has been written about these two cameras. The rokkor files website, seems to say that the x-570 is better suited for the advanced amateur. I was wondering if any one has used both cameras and can talk about pros and cons.

Why i want a x-570 or x-700? Well i have some rokkor lenses that i love in particular the venerated 24mm f/2.8. I also have a pair of XE-7 but they seem to be developing electronic problems despite a very recent CLA. My thinking is that parts and service for the X series cameras are more available.

dynachrome · Jun 10, 2014

I have an X-570 and many X-700s. The only advantage of the X-570 is that if you plan to shoot mostly in Manual mode, you will have more information in the finder to do it. The X-570 was made for only a short time so not many are around. I recommend the X-700. The finder is very bright. The focusing screens are interchangeable if you can find them. You get a PC socket and depth of field preview. You get TTL flash metering. Accessories include a radio remote unit, a winder, a motor, TTL flash units and an excellent angle finder. The week points of the X-700 are known and can be repaired. Finally, you have a large number of high quality MC, MD and Celtic lenses available at reasonable prices.

redstarjedi · Jun 10, 2014

dynachrome said:
I have an X-570 and many X-700s. The only advantage of the X-570 is that if you plan to shoot mostly in Manual mode, you will have more information in the finder to do it. The X-570 was made for only a short time so not many are around. I recommend the X-700. The finder is very bright. The focusing screens are interchangeable if you can find them. You get a PC socket and depth of field preview. You get TTL flash metering. Accessories include a radio remote unit, a winder, a motor, TTL flash units and an excellent angle finder. The week points of the X-700 are known and can be repaired. Finally, you have a large number of high quality MC, MD and Celtic lenses available at reasonable prices.

Thanks for the info. I'll go for the x-700.

Jaf-Photo · Jun 10, 2014

Yeah, of the two X-700.

But you could also hold out for a XD11 [XD9] or XD5. It has a better shutter and both aperture priority and shutter priority modes, as well as a full auto (green mode).

It shouldn't be more than a X-700 in good nick, but it is a superior camera that would last you forever.

pbromaghin · Jun 10, 2014

I have both and prefer the X-570. They are almost the same camera, but the X-570 is just a little simpler and the available full-auto mode of the X-700 doesn't do anything for me. I don't know if it is just my camera but, in manual mode, the X-700 finder continues to show only the meter-recommended shutter speed, while the X-570 shows both the recommended and manually-set speeds. I find that very helpful.

That being said, a week after you get either one of them you won't remember any difference, so just get the one in better condition. And if you can find one, get a Motor Drive 1. It completely transforms the ergonomics of these cameras.

Rick A · Jun 10, 2014

I have a Minolta SRT200 and a couple of lenses I'll sell you for $20 plus postage. it hasn't been used it in years, but it should still work (meter still activates and shutter sounds fine).

pbromaghin · Jun 10, 2014

If you really want to generate a GAS attack, go here:

Dead Link Removed

redstarjedi · Jun 10, 2014

Well i bought a mint and pristine x-700, now i'm searching for a good deal on a motor drive one. I have two XE-7's i can now part with one of them if any ones wants to buy it.

Alan Gales · Jun 11, 2014

I sold tons of X-700's back in the 80's. It was the camera that I recommended to most people who wanted an SLR. You are going to really like it.

pbromaghin · Jun 11, 2014

Good choice, redstarjedi.

The autowinders G and GP are nice, but the Motor Drive 1 is miles beyond them in function. And my son-in-law says "That looks badass!"

Kyon Thinh · Jun 11, 2014

X570 is better, you can also change the screen with it, no problem.
Full set X700 I also have, lacking only one cable to connect multi function back to the camera.

Les Sarile · Jun 11, 2014

Kyon Thinh said:
X570 is better, you can also change the screen with it, no problem.
Full set X700 I also have, lacking only one cable to connect multi function back to the camera.

I have the multifunction back and it does not require a cable to connect to the camera. Is there something else?

The best Minolta for me, x-700 or x-570?

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