Hey everyone! I’m in the market for a new camera and wanted to get something with a larger frame size than my mamiya 645pro. I love the 645 but it’s definitely clunky and after lugging it around north wales last summer, I’m looking for a more portable travel camera.
My three contenders are either a mamiya 6(highest cost but interested in the platform without the 7ii price tag), a Fuji GW680 or 690iii (like 6x9 but maybe 6x8 is more frame bang for buck?) and lastly a Makina 67.
The Fujis are the lowest on the cost spectrum, The downside with the Fujis being I can’t swap lenses on those models but benefit from the fully mechanical aspect and not being at the mercy of digital functions failing. Trying not to let the cost difference influence the decision. More concerned about comparative glass quality and reliability between the models in the context of mostly shooting landscape stuff
The mamiya is definitely the top end of my budget otherwise I’d certainly gravitate towards a 7ii. But there’s a chance the standard 7 is within budget if I stretch slightly.
I know the Mamiya glass is exceptionally sharp, but I’ve also heard good things about the Fuji glass.
I’ve got zero experience or knowledge of the Makina 67, but reckon it’s maybe a happy medium between the 6x6 format and 6x8/9.
I made a poll but really hoping for some nuanced opinions in the comments. Thanks for weighing in!