Pentax 6x7 or 67ii - Which one should you buy?
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 มิ.ย. 2024
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The Pentax 6x7 remained relatively unchanged for most of its life, until the 67ii was released, which has a number of new features, but also costs substantially more money. If you’re looking to purchase one of these 6x7 film cameras, it can be tough to know if the latest model is worth the extra dollars. Recently, I bought an older 6x7 as a backup body, and after using the two of them for the past few months, I wanted to make this video to share my thoughts about the differences, and hopefully help you figure out which one is right for you.
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I used to use a 6X7 as a police forensics officer, and I loved the quality of the photos. There were some situations where I found it too heavy, especially with a large flash unit on it, and we eventually changed to using Mamiya 645's. Still, there was a lot I liked about the 6X7. Great video! Cheers, Pat Lawless.
My late father was a professional photographer during the Vietnam era and a few years ago I dug out his old Mamiya 645 and Nikon F2 and got addicted to film photography. I absolutely love that 645!
Love my 6x7! I bought her in 2003 when I started my aerial photography company. She’s a bit of a challenge to load while you’re trying to fly an airplane but I eventually got the hang of it. Lol! Now she’s retired from aerials and used for portraits of my kids and landscapes. Some of my favorite shots are from this camera. There’s something special about it.
I love my 6x7 it’s very satisfying to hear all the mechanical noises it makes when you shoot. It forces you to really pay attention to everything in the shot and also to slow down and think about the photography. It’s not a camera for fast run & gun users. I also develop my own film, so from beginning to end, you feel like what you’re doing is very much handcrafted.
Thank you so much for these insighftul & well produced videos Kyle ! So great.
I agree, there is something that is so cool in the look and feel of the older 6x7 and 67 bodies. When I bought mine I paid a premium to avoid that brassing look. I don’t know if I made the right decision, some of the ones that show the brassing are so beautiful. The brassing shows how well made the Pentax 6x7 is. If I was ever to get one to put on a shelf it would have to show it’s age. Great video.
A big reason I used to long for a P67II while owning a P67 was the brighter viewfinder. Fun fact - many people don't know you can actually use the P67II viewfinder on the P67 with some tricks and DIY.
Really? How?!
Ya how?
Do elaborate!
So the ground glass is almost the same size in all of the cameras, in the old models it's just as is, a sheet of glass held by 2 thin bits of metal and some screws. In the P67II it's a drop in style glass element in a plastic frame, you can peel it away from the frame (unfortunately you then have to break the plastic bit) and then you can fit it into your older versions but since the old ground glass is quite thick and the newer ones are thin and plastic, there's a lot of fiddling involved in making the screen align properly so you don't miss focus. It's a lot of trial and error but it's doable, I did that many years ago on my old P67MLU when I used an Aero Ektar 178/2.5 on a rubber mount so I could tilt images, so I really needed as bright of a viewfinder as possible to nail focus.
Interesting. I’ve never seen that done before!
I’ve been waiting for this video thank you
Hope you enjoyed it!
Agreed about the build feel. I have the 67 + the left handed wooden grip. It is SO heavy, but that's part of the appeal. I have multiple modern digital cameras I can use when I want to go light. When I'm shooting medium format film, I'm all in on the "clunkiness" of it. Kinda like how I would only listen to a vinyl record if I wanted or was totally cool with the small scratches, pops, and noise. I do wish it had aperture priority, but I got a great deal on the body + 5 lenses, and I don't care to drop another $2-3k just for that.
I’ve been personally looking get the Pentax 67II, but the original 6x7 still has a lot of great value as you stated. I’m new to film photography and I love all the formats. The medium and large formats are mainly my favorites. I think I’m still going to buy the 67II and then eventually try the 6x7. Great video Kyle! Don’t stop making great content!!!🙌🔥🙌🔥🙌🔥
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed this one.
4:14 it would have been an awesome image in color for that landscape picture. the b/w one is good too. nice work
You've made a good case for owning both. I have just the 6x7 MLU and love it.
Got the 67 (second generation), and I'm just in love with it, couldn't justify getting the 67ii "just" for the better viewfinder.
Planning on mainly using a handheld light meter anyways!
Can't go wrong with a P67! Put the price difference towards a steady supply of film :D
Used to shoot weddings with the 6x7 MLU. Beautiful detail, but shallow depth of field. With modern films I started using 35mm for weddings, better depth of field and kept people in the front row and back in focus. Love the versatility of the 90mm leaf shutter lens, making double exposures easy. Fill flash in sunlight was a huge advantage being able to sync at 1/500 and opening up the apachure to get more flash distance. Only getting 10 or 20 exposures (120 vs 220) taught me to make each shot count! Shot weddings with film from 1986 until early 2000s, when digital got to @ 5M pixels. Gave away my $15,000 dollar darkroom, I couldn't get much for it at the time. (Beseler 4x5 & two 45A heads) The Epson scanner blew it away! Did my printing at the Walmart kiosk, and on line for anything bigger than 8x10. I really want to shoot with the 6x7 again and scan with 16 bit raw!
Thank you Kyle! Great timing as i’m looking to buy a Pentax 6x7 mlu
Do it! Can't go wrong with that one :)
Cheers. Hope this helps!
really helpful review ! thank you so much :)
You're welcome. Cheers.
Loved the video Kyle! Just purchased a Pentax 6x7 with the TTL prism. Was wondering if you could make a video breaking down how to use the TTL prism, having a hard time understanding how to use it!
Hey Justin, I recently made a video about metering for film using the camera meter. That one may help you out.
Thank you for this informative review! I went with older version 👍🏻
I love the old ones - I grew up with a Spotmatic F in the 70s and always wanted to get a 6x7 after I got one in hands at the Photokina in Cologne end of the 70s. About 10 years ago I started Pentax medium format with a 645 and trapped by a 165/2.8 with a 6x7>645 Adaptor I had to buy the first 67. Meanwhile all 645 equipment is gone and beside a 2nd 6x7 it is meanwhile easier to name the missing lenses than the ones I have. On both cameras I use a printed right hand grip plus the wooden left hand grip and as the right grip is covering the name it is imposibel to distingishe the 2 old models. One great thing with a complet different shooting experience is the waist level finder. It shows 100% (Prism only ~ 90%) and I enjoy this very much - especially on a tripod.
Change the old glass on the viewfinder!
I have two of the 6x7 non-MLU bodies with 55mm, 105mm f2.4, 135mm macro, and 200mm telephoto lenses that I bought brand new in the mid to late 70s. I love the system and have just started shooting with them again after about 15 years of digital shooting. I wish they were MLU bodies because most of my shots are taken with the camera mounted on a tripod. I'd love, love, love to have a 67ii but can't bring myself to pay the price and I'm worried that the camera will become a doorstop if the electronics fail. Kyle, I've only been following you for a few months but can say I really enjoy your content.
i meter manually most of the time and i love the look of the old 67 , that was the one i bought. Found Mint one as new with the grip and the 105
Yup, best look of the bunch (especially without the standard lefthand grip).
I miss my 6x7 as I traded it for the Nikon S2. I'm pretty sure that I'll go for the 6x7 once more, such a great camera and a great dumbell at the same time
Hey, Kyle. Thanks for your thoughts on these two cameras. Quick question. Do you know if either of them can be used to easily make double exposures the way you can with film SLR's? Thanks again and happy New Year.
Pentax 67ll is a true gem - you will never regret it - just go and get on - the price only go up from now on
I have the older Pentax 67. Funny thing how end up with the Camera + 3 lenses and filters all inside Original Pentax Hard Case to carry everything. I walk into a friends house and this guy loves to buy in garage sales, his house is full of things everywhere so from far I spotted the hard case and I open it and surprise Pentax 67 in mint condition. I ask how much, and he says $500 dll and it is all yours . Man I love the Camera with the 3 lenses and I could not be happier. Thanks for showing the differences, I don't I need all those extra things of the 67ii the old one works just fine like a classic racing car.
Great video as always! You brought up a good point about the feel of the older 6x7. I personally prefer older fully mechanical cameras for shooting film just because I really love how different the shooting experience is from modern cameras
Have you shot a large format camera with a focal plane shutter (like a Graflex Speed Graphic)? If not I highly recommend it, the mechanical feel is on a different level!
@@KNURKonesur I have not yet, but I would love to give it a try!
Cheers, Reimann!
I agree that the 6x7 and 67 feel nicer in some key ways, but none of them are fully mechanical. All the models require a battery and have an electronically controlled shutter. They certainly looks/feel like a fully mechanical body, but without a battery and working electrical you won't get a single frame.
@@therealchickentender yeah I know. I was referring to the mechanical cameras I use. I have a Bronica S2A and Canon P
It’s always been for me the lens but the 67II has more of the ‘digital’ advancements that the 6X7 and even the 67 do not have but for the money…not that it’s listed or spoken about would be my Pentax67. Great video as per usual Kyle.
Cheers. Thanks for watching!
I have been rather pleased owning both systems. You can't go wrong with such a purchase.
I started shooting a 6x7 with meter prism around 1985, then added a second 6x7, then a 67II, which has become my "go to" body. I shoot mostly landscapes, usually on a tripod. For my use, either body works fine, as the refinements of the 67II mostly do not come into play for me. I do like the more advanced metering options of the 67II, although I commonly use a separate spot meter. There are several errors in the video concerning the metering options on these two bodies (thru their prisms), which I will correct here. As to the 67II, three metering options are available: spot and center-weighted are mentions, but I did not notice mention of the matrix metering option, which is the most sophisticated and very accurate. If you tend to just shoot the 67II in auto-exposure, then this matrix metering its your best choice. As to the 6x7 or 67, the metering is not center-weighted, as stated repeatedly. It is a full screen, unweighted averaging meter. This design causes complaints that the meter is inaccurate, which are unjustified. These complaints are from folks who are used to center-weighted metering, who do not modify their metering technique to account for the way the meter actually works. If I were starting into Pentax 67 system, at the current prices I would select a minty 6x7 or 67 in lieu of the 67II, then spend $150-200 for a complete CLA of both body and metering prism. Most of the additional features of the 67II make it more convenient to shoot casually, hand-held, walking around. Frankly, for that usage, there are other camera systems which are better suited, mainly based on weight.
Edit: Since posting this comment, I added one of those ebay after-market 3-D printed grips to the right side of my 6x7. Contra, Kyle, I think it is a wonderful addition to that body. It let's me (briefly) carry the camera one-handed, which is plus when you are fussing around setting up a shot. At $25, the best value in a "Pentax" accessory I ever laid out.
I had both models, started with a 67 MLU and then found an amazing deal on a 67II and sold the older one. There biggest difference for me was the much better metering an AE, followed by the RH grip. The viewfinders were not very different IMO. Also, the 67II does not have the annoying mirror locking problem. If you can afford a 67II I’d definitely recommend it over the older models.
Great Kyle I now have a new lust after camera,,, Great Review though
Thank you for the video
I will get one this month...leaning more towards the 6x7 on cost alone LoL...but both models are wonderful and like you...I really love the feel of the older cameras compared to the newer ones.
I was thinking on using my Nikon FM (black model) a long side my Pentax 6x7...or maybe I should get a Nikon F or F2 (black model of course) to use along side my Pentax 6x7?
I have a 6X7 mlu. The only annoying thing about it is that you get quite a bit more on the negative than what you see in the frame. Would be nice to be able to compose with a bit more accuracy. Other than that, I absolutely love the camera and lenses. I don't mind shooting it hand held at slower speeds either. Fantastic camera!
For sure, I hear you. The coverage is only around 90%. I've found I just compose a little tighter.
The 6x7 can make use of FP bulbs, so if you want flash with fast shutter speeds, that's the way to go. The 67ii can only sync faster than 30 if you use a leaf shutter lens.
To me the P67 platform is still by far the best medium format workhorse even made. The combination of 1/1000s shutter and interchangable lenses that can be adapted from other medium format systems and from large format cameras make it the ultimate available light portrait setup. For studio there are better options, but you can always go for the leaf shutter lenses with 1/500s sync speed.
Lots of great options out there, but yeah, for me as well, the Pentax 67 is the best fit.
hello, thanks for a nice review, : ), in terms of viewfinders: I agree that the "view" feels quite small with 67 II and metered prism,,, it is because there is all the "digital info like shutter speed etc."...and that takes room in viewfinder... you can replace that metered prism with non-metered prism even from older models like 6x7 or later 67... it fits just right and the "view" becomes quite large and its pleasure to look through.... ofcourse, you will have to use external lightmeter and shoot in "manual" instead... but thats what I use always when shooting film.... Good luck !, : )
I only got the 67ii because double exposures are a big part of my workflow
In 1973 - that's exactly 50 years back - I used the 1st edition of the Asahi Pentax 6x7 with the simple prism finder without any metering options, and it was o.k. because I'm accustomed to external metering devices like Polysix and Lunasix. The first edition wasn't painted black but had an overall black plastic skin which never showed any colo(u)r abraison - very savvy;-))
Trying to get rid of my rz67 to buy one lol great vid comparison
I went with the P67 simply because it was so much more affordable. When I bought mine the price differential was much greater because the P67II was new and professional photographers were unloading the P67 on the cheap, maybe $300 with a 90 or 105 lens. I never actually knew what the difference was so I appreciate the video. Since photography is a hobby I don't use it enough to justify the price differential.
Nice. $300 with a lens is an amazing deal.
I love my 6x7 mlu, at the end of the day both camera's used in the correct way will give the same results , but I would definitely get a mlu version of the older 6x7 camera 📷 😀 😄
They will. It’s all about what is most comfortable or suits your way of working best.
Love my 6x7 MLU. I struggle tonail focus sometimes due to wearing varifocul glasses but I did buy a chimney VF to be able to use it better. Turns out it's such a pain to set that up that I don't use it and just hope for the best when shooting now :)
I've been eyeballing the chimney finder. May have to try it!
@@KyleMcDougall you can borrow mine
I love these old school medium format cameras. Worryingly the majority of my shots are on an iPhone 12.
I bought one last year 67ii. Wonderful machine. Had the problem that isn't uncommon which involves shutter magnet failure. Cost £385 to have it repaired and serviced.
Around 385 is what I paid for a P67MLU with 150/2.8, 200/4.0, 90/2.8 and the left hand grip some years ago :P
@@KNURKonesur them was the days ;-p
I LOVE my Pentax 67II (almong with my Pentax 45mm, 55mm, 55-100mm zoom, 105mm, 90-180mm zoom, and 200mm lenses). I lucked out and bought one that's practically brand new, before the prices exploded. I ended up buying the Pentax 67II Chimney Viewfinder and, man, the 100% view it provides is so much better than the AE finder.
I’ve been eyeballing the 55-100 lately for landscape work. I’ve heard great things.
@@KyleMcDougall I absolutely recommend it. So much more versatile than just the 55mm, any of the three 75mms (although the f2.8 AL is thoroughly amazing for night photography a la Todd Hido), or the 90mm. The 55-100mm sits on my 67II nearly 75% of the time. Also, it’s said the 90-180mm isn’t as sharp, but I pixel-shift scan all my negs with a Fuji GFX 100S (400mp pixel-shift!) & Pentax 645 FA 120mm Macro (a combo that beats any drum scan, if I may say so myself), and the 90-180mm is equally sharp. Both those zooms make for a very light and versatile kit. Most my 6x7 negs come out *almost* as sharp as any of my 4x5 negs (all created with Rodenstock Sironar-S lenses, no less.)
Also, like you, I use the Pentax 645NII as its backup and, oh, what an amazing camera it is in its own right. Pentax really had some special magic going on!
A few months ago I eBayed a P67ii, a 55mm f/4, a 90mm f/2.8, and a 200mm f/4. I have probably shot four rolls of 120 and all but four shots have been on the 55mm lens. The 200mm lens remains unchristened. My only P67ii gripe is that I really have to work at getting my eye relief in the right place for being able to see the meter readout. Mirror lock-up is great, 5.4 pounds of camera with the 55mm mounted is taxing. The entire rig is glorious, but I may just go back to running my R5 Canon and my EOS3 for film. I like the funk 35mm gives me and I am having a hard time finding the P67ii needed for what I shoot. PS: you also made me buy a Coolscan 9000. Should the P67ii go away then I will just keep my Coolscan V ED with the film feeder and live the 14-bit scanning life. Regardless, thanks for all the info.
Cheers, Scott. Yeah, nothing wrong with 35mm especially if it fits your style of work! 6x7 and large format are great, but sometimes just don’t make sense for certain way of working of types of work.
I feel the Pentax 67II viewfinder is supposed to be eyeglasses-friendly. When I had the Pentax 67 (1989 version), I had to look around in the viewfinder to see all of the frame.
Greetings Kyle. So I just got the 6x7 older version. I love how it feels. Just some questions about the internal metering. I have the 75mm 4.5 lens and I've noticed that the meter works when I move the button on the lens. Is that correct? If what I'm saying makes sense.
I miss that shutter sound a lot!!!
The Pentax 6x7 was my first medium format camera. I bought it around 10 years ago and I still love it. I bought a Pentax 67II a few years later (and a Pentax 645 - but that is another story) and that replaced the Pentax 6x7 as my go-to 6x7 format camera because of the more modern light metering. As it happens I've been shooting with a Kiev 60 for the last couple of weeks and that has inspired me to get out my Pentax 6x7 again. There is something about shooting those classic film cameras that you don't get with with more modern stuff.
Do you shoot the Kiev with the Volna 80? It's a great lens! The Sonnar 180/2.8 is one of the best portrait lenses out there and it's surprisingly cheap! :D The Kiev also can have some lenses adapted to it (so can the P67) to make it even more interesting!
The Kiev is a fun camera!
@@KNURKonesur I've shot the Kiev 60 with the CZJ 50/4 and the CZJ 80/2.8. I agree, that CZJ 180/2.8 is a stellar lens! I do own a Volna 80 but it has the Salyut mount, one for the Kiev 88... What lenses can be adapted to both the Kiev 88 and the Pentax 67 series?
@@KyleMcDougall It is! The moment I picked it up it at once reminded me of my Pentax 6x7. Pretty sweet shots too when you're in the mood for some 6x6 photography.
@@basstubert you could probably modify the Volna to fit the Kiev 60. One group would be adapting lenses from the Kiev 60/Pentacon Six system to Pentax 67, the most popular would be the Biometar 120/2.8 and Sonnar 180/2.8. You could also modify some Hasselblad lenses to fit onto the P67, also the Contax 645 Zeiss Planar 140/2.8. An incredible idea is modifying an old Kodak Aero Ektar 178/2.5 which gives amazing bokeh. And then you've got multiple premium cinema projection lenses like Schneider Cinelux 110/2.0, 125/2.0, 140/2.1 and many similar lenses either from other Schneider ranges or their ISCO Gottingen Cinelux conterparts. There are a couple of websites that show samples with some of those lenses, also TheBokehFactory in Poland makes most of those modifications possible if you have a chat with the bloke :)
All I want from the 67ii is the brighter viewfinder.
I've got an original 6x7 with no Mirror Lockup, and honestly my only problem is the dim finder without a split prisim focus assist.
I don't even need a meteted prisim (I would like one.)
Trust me, when you get a little older your eyes are really going to appreciate the brighter viewfinder of the 67II. I've owned both, but eventually sold my P67.
What about using the chimney finder on a P67? Or adapting the focusing screen, or even getting a modified one for the P67? I mean I love the P67II but it's about 2x more expensive.
@@KNURKonesur Can't comment regarding the chimney finder because I've never used one. The focus screen can be replaced, but it requires sending the body off to a technician. And, decent third-party screens are kinda rare...Bill Maxwell's are/were the best IMO. Another plus for the 67II finder is that it allows user diopter adjustment; again, good for old eyes. IMO, all the P67 models are great (except the non-MLU body), but I much prefer the 67II (luckily, I bought mine long before the used prices started their heavenly trend.)
I have the Pentax 645N, been using it for landscape and long exposure photography. I’m now looking into getting the older model of the Pentax 67. I don’t have to worry about the shutter as I’ll be using a shutter release. Do you have advice pertaining or videos to long exposure with the 67?
I own a 6x7 MLU and have a Maxwell high lux bright screen in it. I can say it is even brighter than the 67II screen as well as has more clarity. You should check it out! Not cheap screen, but with the cheaper 6x7 camera, its still definately worth the investment 👌
I thought they stopped selling the custom screens a couple of years ago? Or am I thinking of another brand?
I think they stopped selling them. But Rick Oleson makes screens still.
@@KyleMcDougall oh I didn't realise this. Last time I spoke with him via e-mail was in 2019. Shame such a great product!
Thanks for the review! I am really interested in the comparison aiming to get on of those two soon. One thing that keeps coming back to me and I'd love to hear your take on it:
How serviceable is the 67II nowadays? Would the 6x7 represent a safer investment long term considering it is all manual / mechanic or I am missing something here?
Keep up the amazing work! I really enjoy your pace and clear communication and the amount of work you put on the editing and grading. Your channel inspired me to try different formats than 35mm! I got an amazing half frame and currently playing with panoramic 135, partly linked to your videos. Have a great day!
Not sure about America, but in Eastern Europe it made a difference, the fully mechanical cameras are much easier to service, and also cheaper when in need of CLA.
@@KNURKonesur Thanks a lot for your reply and for sharing your thoughts. I'll be closer to your situation, being based in The Netherlands.
@@brubecktime also you can buy a bucket of film for the price difference :P
I had my original 6x7 serviced here: www.asahiphoto.co.uk And it looks like they repair 67ii’s as well. I guess it really all depends on what goes wrong with the camera. Keep in mind, there are still electronics involved with the earlier models, as they do need a battery to operate.
I guess the benefit of the older model if something did go really wrong, is that you aren’t out as much money. That’s why I bought this second camera to use in crappy weather, etc.
Please review kodak ultramax! I know its safe to over expose 1 stop or 2 but i wanna see what it looks like. Thank you!
I'm probably in the minority in that I specifically bought a first model 6x7 with a broken meter so that I'd have a more barebones shooting experience, and be forced to use a handheld meter or meter by eye. So far it's my favourite camera of all time! I also have the older Takumar 105mm, which based on sample images I prefer the look of to the newer SMC version.
That's the harder way, but the more FUN way! There are some great cinema projector lenses that you can cheaply adapt to P67 and get something even more bokeh-licious than the Takumar if that's what you'd be interested in! :)
When using the 6x7 or 67II. How do you meter when using center meter? I.e how do you descide how to compensate?
Great video the presbyterian pastor Matthew Everhart on TH-cam sounds just like you. Very interesting when I watch your videos now 👍
When I went looking for my Mamiya 6x7 I specifically did NOT look for the RZ67. I only looked at RB67. The RZ is an electronics based camera with electronic shutter, etc. In old cameras these can cause problems and usually aren't fixable (because of parts and repair knowledge). I have two Mamiya 645 for that reason. The second shutter doesn't open at times and so no photo is taken although it may sound as if the shutter tripped correctly. My RB67 is a tank and I love it. I prefer waist level finders to prism finders. I can deal just find with the backward image. The all mechanical ultimately makes the camera more repairable as cannibalism can provide parts and remaining experts can work to adjust the mechanics.Some of the same is true in the Pentax 67 ves 67II. To get those half-stops an electronic shutter is used and those are prone to ultimate failure and potential inability to repair or at least much more costly if repairs are possible. I enjoyed the video.
There is one big selling point for the RZ67 though, and it's the 110/2.8 lens. Unfortunately had that combo die on me when shooting in winter and I really didn't like the 1/400s for ambient light shooting when it was sunny, so got rid of the whole thing. The rotating back is amazing for ergonomics though, wish more cameras had that. Some years ago there was a huge surge of Contax 645 cameras just because of the 80/2.0, and now the un-repairability of the camera has made the whole thing die I think. You can still adapt the 80/2.0 to other 645 formats, but it's costly. The more mechanical cameras I think will survive for years to come and the modding community with 3D printing becoming bigger and bigger will give some love to some great lenses that can't be used anymore because of faulty electronics in the cameras.
A question: Have you used a 35mm panoramic adapter kit in one of your 67s? I bought a kit but haven't installed & used it yet.
I would consider a Bronica GS-1 as well.
Seems like the market is changing constantly. Is a clean 67 + late TTL prism + wooden grip + late 90mm + late 165mm (+ some UV filters) worth $1800 in mid 2022?
Hey Kyle!
Have you decided on what to do with the 6x7 by now?
Just got my hands on one so I'm curious about your thoughts.
Thanks in advance!
Hey Robert, actually sold the 67ii a little bit ago. The OG is the one that I'll be using here and there.
@@KyleMcDougall that's the same as I've got! More than enough for me.
Never been this early good video though
I was lucky enough to find two brand new 67II at 400$ each 4 years back . Shooting 6x7 is special but with film price I would not rely on automatic exposure…
400$ is a STEAL!
Woah, that's a deal! I think auto exposure with some compensation is fine if you know how to use the meter properly. It's worked great for me.
This video is right on time. I'm waiting on my Pentax 6x7 now, gets here Monday. Was thinking of a Hasselblad, but decided I couldn't afford to replace anything or get accessories. With the 6x7, I can't wait to accessorize. I feel like the same is true for the 67ii, I wouldn't be able to afford any other lenses or anything. It is coming with the 105 and got a 55 on the way right after, and going to get a panorama kit. Life is good. GAS satiated for the moment. LOL
Where are you getting your 6x7 from?
@@stephenryde78 It's coming from Japan. I got it off of Ebay.
Enjoy! I’m sure you’ll be happy with the older model.
@@stephenryde78 Got it this week. It is in mint condition. Customs was #$$%^& troublesome and expensive. Taking it out to shoot tomorrow and test it. Got a roll of HP5 and Portra I'm not sure if I'm taking the BMD6k.
Having bought a hasselblad 500 cm , I think I will be selling my 67. If only for economy, 10 shots on a roll kinda hurts , I get 16 with the 6/45 back and 12 with 6/6
Also the weight difference swings me away
Depends on your priorities and the look you want. Owning multiple medium format systems already looks like you've invested a lot of money, so the argument about film economy wouldn't convince me that much, just sell the cameras and pay for film with the money you get :P Also 6x7 has that aspect ratio that I really love, so I wasn't satisfied with a 6x6 and 645 camera. The image size also makes a difference, then the lens combinations... there are many level of complexity to consider :D I hate Hasselblads cause I only like cameras that can work with certain lenses, but it's probably a good investment if you want to sell it in a couple of years.
For me, the Pentax 67 is bittersweet. I loooooooove the image quality of their lens (their lenses are magical), but the ergonomics and the viewfinder never made me enjoy shooting with it. Adding a right hand grip made it a little better but still very uncomfortable especially as a portrait shooter because the camera is so heavy that (with one hand focusing and one hand holding the camera) it puts all the pressure and weight on my wrist. I always thought the original left wood grip would be awkward, but eventually gave it a try and it completely changed the game for me (mainly if you shoot portrait orientation). It made it comfortable to hold, however the focusing screen is terrible and the micro prism isn't the easiest to focus with for me, so it still makes me not enjoy shooting with it. The Mamiya RZ67 screen is wayyyyyyyyyyy better so I tend to use that way more. But the Pentax 67 image quality is so beautiful that I refuse to sell it any time soon.
Have you tried shooting with the chimney magnifier? It's a bit awkward as you see the image flipped around, but the image is much bigger and brighter than in the prism viewfinders. Also holding the camera in a different way made it more ergonomic to me, maybe it would work for you as well?
@@KNURKonesur Hey no I haven't tried the chimney magnifier. I shoot portraits in portrait orientation so that would probably make shooting even more awkward. But if I shot landscapes I'd definitely try it out!
There is fella named Rick Oleson who makes a bright screen for the Pentax. I’ve never used it but could be worth checking out?
Hi Kyle, you have a video in which you are reviewing a big Mamiya RB67 set. Did you resign from the RB system?
Yep, a while ago. I started with the P67ii, and switched briefly to the Mamiya, but decided the Pentax suits my way work working better (SLR style for handheld).
So, I am curious you said the viewfinder on the 67ii was like “looking down this tunnel” to see the image. My 6x7 MLU has that feeling. Like the image in the viewfinder is really far away. Do we think the actual viewfinder window could be causing that? Are there interchangeable windows?
Never heard of interchangeable parts for the viewfinder. I think that’s just how they are. And the 67ii must be a bit worse than the 6x7, for reasons unknown to me.
Just a question.. my 6x7 viewfinder isn't very accurate as far as framing goes. When you frame you have to mentally add quite a bit to the picture, as the negs always have more in frame than what you thought you shot. Is the 67 II viewfinder more accurate in this respect? I agree on the feel of the camera, it's wonderful to hold, just feels great. And I would suggest to anyone with a 6x7 to get one of the wooden grips. There are really nice ones out there that are great if you like more grip.
If you have a prism finder it's going to only have about 90% coverage of the frame. Not sure if it was better with 67II or not, but if you want really precise framing, you would need to either get a waistlevel finder or the "chimney" magnifier finder and see the image flipped around while focusing.
I believe it stayed the same for the 67ii. Viewfinder coverage is around 90% for all versions.
I love the modern look of the 67II. I think that’s my biggest reason I’d go with the newer one.
MAMIYA RULES !!!
Random question for the Pentax masses - just got a Pentax 67ii after my MLU67 died. The photo shutter counter on the 67ii and ability to release the shutter doesn’t work when I put the wooden handgrip from my previous generation 67 on it? Does that make any sense at all? I can take the handgrip off, load film, shoot 4 photos, put the handgrip on and watch the “4” on the counter disappear as I screw the locking pin down on the handgrip? I still have the ability to return the 67ii which is why I’m asking? Really weird.
Hmmmm, that's really strange. I have no idea why that would cause an issue. Maybe someone else can answer. As far as I know, the grips should be universal.
I plan to photograph/film travel and family outings, two year old son. I'll lug my blackmagic design 6k/caged/monitor/vlock/follow-focus/meike cinema lens (almost a kg by itself) and my pentax 6x7 (arrives next week) 55mm and 105mm around. I might have to leave the sigma zoom at home. I'll save money on joining a gym. It will be 6-10kg of gear. But gorgeous images to share with my wife, son, and extended family, well worth it in my book.
Where can I buy the Pentax 67? I'm looking for a reputable seller on Ebay or camera stores.
Is the old one fully manual?
Nice, but not on my radar due to cost.
question... are the lanses interchangeable? i have an older model and at some point might upgrade. just wondering if they changed the lens system or if i can go for a body only option on ebay...?
You're good. Same lens mount.
@@KyleMcDougall excellent news 👌🏼🙏🏼
Since, it’s not like you can just walk into your neighborhood camera store (since they don’t exist AND the 67 is LONG discontinued), before purchasing, you should know that even with great eyesight, the Pentax 67 (not the II), is difficult to focus. I compare it to trying to manually focus your DSLR…….in the dark……if you had Vaseline smeared on your focusing screen. Either cash in your 401k and get the 67II or look into other systems. You’re welcome.
This is one of those scenarios where it's different for everyone. I use the older 67, and I find it comparable to a lot of other cameras to focus.
Did you end up sticking with one over the other?
Can your 67II do multi-exposures? I have seen on Wikipedia that only some had that feature.
I’m actually not sure. Not something I’ve ever looked into.
Yes, it can do multi-exposures. Only the 67II can, I mean.
I had the 67, but sold it because my eyesight dropped 5 years ago. Maybe I wasn't persistent enough to achieve correct focusing.
I'm thinking to give it a try again. Do you have any recommendations for me by any chance? I'm thinking about 67, 67ii and the bronica gs-1.
I don't know if the bronica is a good idea because there isn't repair for it to my knowledge.
I'd say get the P67 or P67MLU, and look for a chimney waist level finder which gives you a huge and bright image for better focusing than the prism viewfinders. It's going to be confusing in the beginning as the image is inverted, but once you get the hang of it, it's going to be great!
You could always look into a replacement screen for the 6x7. There is a fella named Rick Oleson who makes them. I don’t have any experience with them, but could be worth researching.
Thanks! I will look into it.
Didn't know about Rick Oleson.
I had the waist level finder, really cool for landscape but hey difficult for portrait 🤗
it's a simple question actually. if you really need AE - than buy 67II. cause that's the only difference between them other than price (67II internally is just same old 67 but with new plastic on top).
really. same mechanics inside. 67II is more of a restyle than a new camera.
Hi Kyle, I bought a Pentax 67 with AE viewfinder some weeks ago. Sadly I could not see the full frame with my glasses and send the camera back. Do you have any idea which Pentax or which finder is good for glasses?
Sorry, Johannes, that’s one thing I’m unsure of.
When you say you couldn’t see the full frame with glasses, could you elaborate a little for me? I wear glasses and I’m eyeing up a 6x7, is there issues then? Thanks!
@@UKHEAD87 I sold the Pentax because of the bad viewfinder with glassss.
@@johannes.2089 thanks, is this a common issue then or just preference?
A local shop has a 67 for sale with a 90mm and this isn't helping me resist the urge to buy it.
Just buy it. You can always sell all the other cameras you have :P
both
I'd say buy two P67s and have either a 2 lens setup or keep the other body as backup if the first one fails :)
I feel like if Pentax rereleased a 67iii, that they would sell like hot cakes.
I'm down, haha!
Is a shutter in Pentax67 controlled electronically or mechnically?
Somebody tell me plz.
All models rely on electronics to work
is loading film any different between the 2 cameras?
Nope
Wow, great video again. Always makes me realise that I have so much more to learn.
I started my own TH-cam channel in June, making weekly Mini Documentaries. I know you are a super busy guy, but it would be super awesome to get some feedback from a professional and hear your opinion.
Some food for thought on your channel! You got a new subscriber :)
@@KNURKonesur ☺️ that’s great feedback, thanks for subscribing 🙏
I'll check it out as soon as I have a chance!
@@KyleMcDougall thanks Kyle, hugely appreciated 🙌🙌
I assume the quality of the images between both is probably pretty much the same, right?
Yes, absolutely.
The 6x7.
I agree, buy the 6x7 and get it serviced properly and you're good to go :)
So Im just seeing this in 2024. Did you stick with the older ?
No longer have either. Shooting mostly GFX and 4x5
But I did stick with the older one after this video
@@KyleMcDougall thanks for letting me know because I'm considering buying the older one after much research. 😅
Me watching a Pentax 67 video knowing I will never have 3 grand to spend on a picture taking device LMFAO
The old version is every bit as good as the new one, so 1 grand + 2 grand worth of film and developing supplies :)
The old one is a lot cheaper! 😁
No one word about mirror lock up?
Both have it.
The oldest version doesn't, but most people will figure that out when they do their research. I had the P6x7MLU for about 4 years and never used the MLU option a single time :D
It doesn't matter, lens makes the image.
And P67 can have a lot of interesting lenses adapted to it with some DIY work! :)
I think most are aware that the camera body doesn’t effect image quality. To some it will matter though.
67 lens video?
The thing with the Pentax is that there are X native lenses made by Pentax, but there is also Y amount of lenses you can adapt to the system, which is very cool :D
Which lenses in particular are you interested in?
@@KyleMcDougall Hi, I only have the 105mm but would like one a bit wider and another a bit longer. Any recommendations would be seriously considered. Thanks for any input.
Can we hire you to read our children their bedtime stories?