Young enthusiast looking for a digital back for my Hasselblad 500 C

[12557]

Thanks a lot for all the information, this is really interesting!!!

I’d definitely be tempted to take on a project like converting a back—partly to save money, but honestly also because I find the technical challenge appealing. The problem is the risk: spending around €1300 on a Mamiya back and then modifying it step by step feels a bit too risky for me.

I actually think the mechanical side—like adapting the mount or frame—might not be that difficult. In the end, everything is assembled somehow and can be taken apart again, especially older gear which isn’t glued together like modern devices. And even those can be opened if needed. The real question for me is how to handle the electronic contacts and triggering of the back.

That’s the part where I’m not confident enough, mainly because I don’t want to potentially lose that amount of money. On the other hand, I guess I could always resell it if things don’t work out.

If you have any ideas or advice on that, I’d really appreciate it.

 

[RalphLambrecht]

I would love to revive my V-system collection into digital as well, but prices put that out of reach; got to be patient. On the othr hand,I feel well covered digitally with my Nikon equipment.

 

[Alexander6x6]

I would love to revive my V-system collection into digital as well, but prices put that out of reach; got to be patient. On the othr hand,I feel well covered digitally with my Nikon equipment.

It depends on what you mean by “out of reach.” The price range for digital backs goes from €300 (Eyelike M22) to €4,000 for a used 907x camera.

The Hasselblad Zeiss is legendary for its contrast and colour accuracy.

 

[12557]

300€ is very optimistic, i found nothing under 1200€ on my 4 weeks research in nearly all platforms

 

[Alexander6x6]

300€ is very optimistic, i found nothing under 1200€ on my 4 weeks research in nearly all platforms

Don't forget that your requirements exclude the backs below €1,200.
I bought my Eyelike M22 including all original parts together with the alluminium case for €300.

 

[itsdoable]

Affordability is relative. Backs that require a tethered computer are available under €1000. But if you want to be mobile, untethered backs that will natively fit a Hasselblad V are, as stated, more expensive. Just keep in mind that these were 10x more when new. The least expensive stand alone Hasselblad V back is probably the Kodak DCS Pro. You have to compare this to Film prices, which in my pond is running around $25/roll (processed and scanned, not printed). It makes that CF39 back only ~100 rolls of film, which is not that hard to burn through in a few years.

And you have to be comfortable with the costs when modifying..

Phase One backs from that era use a double trigger when used on a view camera, 1st trigger wakes up the back, the second captures the image. It's done with the shutter sync cord, or through the milti-pin connector. I'm not as certain with the H backs, but I have friend that use them on view cameras with the same process.

 

[12557]

Yes, I feel the same. It’s something everyone has to decide for themselves, but a back that only works tethered is really just for studio use and not for general shooting.

Oh, I hadn’t even considered the Kodak DCS Pro. What kind of specs does it have?

And one more question: where did you get the other one for 300? On which platform?