Which System Would YOU Buy?

[PhotoJim]

Hmm. There have been some adjustments in some of the prices. The last time I ordered 220 (and I ordered three different film types) the prices were exactly double.

 

[Richard Kelham]

Given the OP's stated requirements I would think the Bronica is his best bet. Don't be sucked into the Hasselblad world as that way penury lies! OK you may get an old 500C for 400 bucks but it will be at least 40 years old and probably battered to hell. Plus there is the issue of getting old lenses repaired if anything goes wrong with the shutter: there are few if any spares left.

Then there is the cost of extending the outfit...

 

[Crono]

Given the OP's stated requirements I would think the Bronica is his best bet. Don't be sucked into the Hasselblad world as that way penury lies! OK you may get an old 500C for 400 bucks but it will be at least 40 years old and probably battered to hell. Plus there is the issue of getting old lenses repaired if anything goes wrong with the shutter: there are few if any spares left.

Then there is the cost of extending the outfit...

i agree with this...
yes, the starting price of a 500c / 500cm is affordable
but you will not be happy with just the 80mm lens...

 

[Thomas Bertilsson]

The Bronica SQ-A is a STEAL these days, and they're great cameras. Wonderful lenses. You can get a lot of camera for $500.
Hasselblad - it's probably a better camera system, you really do get what you pay for, though. So if you find a bargain Hassy - prepare to spend some dough on a CLA afterward.
- Thomas

 

[Anscojohn]

Since I am not in the market for a system, perhaps my question is personally moot. However, if I were going to give up my Hasselbladski (Kiev 88) and my Pentax 6x7 for a later evolution of the Hasselblad--later than a 500C or its direct derivatives--what used body and system should I consider? Specifically, a mechanical 'Blad, but definitely later than the old original 500?

 

[panastasia]

Some years ago when I was interested in owning a Hassy, the late Jack Naylor, who owned the worlds largest camera collection, gave me this advise: "don't be foolish, buy a Bronica and save your money." He could afford any camera - he didn't own a Hassy.

 

[benjiboy]

If I was in your situation, and wanted to keep the cost within reason and your budget, bearing in mind your requirements of a between the lens shutter lenses and 6x6 format, I would go for a Bronica SQA. I don't have any axe to grind, my own M/F gear is Mamiya C330, but if I was buying at present it would be the SQA.

 

[Joe Grodis]

I'd say Bronica is best bang for buck. Nice tack sharp glass and entire outfit can be had from KEH for under $400. Mamiya is also a good choice for the money, new lens selection and good film backs too.
NOTE: "IF" you do select a "Hassy" give it a serious once over because many have more miles on them than a '72 Pinto.

 

[TheFlyingCamera]

If you want to find a used Hassy outfit in your price range, go to KEH. At least you'll have some degree of warranty/protection if the stuff goes bad on you. If you aren't totally opposed to the idea, a Rollei TLR will easily fall within your budget. No MLU to worry about- no mirror to get in the way of the taking lens. I got my 2.8 C on Ebay for about $500. The shutter needs a CLA, but other than that, it's terrific.