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p.1 #4 · p.1 #4 · Various cheaper medium format setups compared? | |
What type of camera do you want ? There are TLRs like the Yashica you borrowed, there are 645/6x6/6x7 SLRs, rangefinders like the Mamiya 7 ($$$$$), folders, etc. They are also completely different shooting experiences, a 645 will handle pretty much like a big digital/35mm SLR with prism and winder, a 6x6/6x7 like a Hasselblad can work either from waist level or with prism. A folder is another thing altogether.
Generally a Bronica will be the cheapest option in any of the SLR categories from the mainstream brands (Bronica, Pentax, Mamiya and Hasselblad). However you may be able to find an older Mamiya 645 system (sorry, never used them so I can't say which one) and you may even be able to stretch to a basic RB67 kit (but try to find at least a ProS body, not the plain one). I have a RB67 ProSD and it is a wonderful camera producing glorious 6x7 negatives. Heavy but once you get used to it it can easily work as a walk around camera (I do use it as such).
For your budget you should easily be able to get one of the Mamiya TLRs too although my knowledge of models/lenses of them is zero.
One thing to beware is that the cheapest setup may not necessarily be the best choice as you may end up having to pay for a service soon after buying. In any case, you'll probably have to service it at some point sooner or later unless you plan to buy, use for 6 months to see if you like then sell to the next person.
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