Originally posted by Aboudd Oh Steve, I have to toss my three cents back into this one. I bought my 645D after selling my D3x a few months back. Since then I have accumulated 7 beautiful 645 lenses from members here, on Get Dpi and yes, even the dreaded eBay. They are all in excellent shape, are sharp and have great performers. More importantly, the most expensive of these lenses was only $800 ( the FAs) and a couple less than $150.00. One doesn't have to have the newest glass to produce great images. So far I have found no issues with the lenses' resolving power with the 645D sensor. I also use several 20 & 30 year old lenses on my Nikon D3s like the 25-50 F4 zoom, the 28 and 35 PC lenses and even a 135 3.5, again, with fine results. As to the slow release of the new lenses, talk to a Leica S2 owner to measure real frustration.
The Nikon D3x is a fine camera. Certainly quicker in the field and has an enviable arsenal of lenses. To make a comparison of these two cameras, past image quality, is really silly as they are two entirely different beasts with distinct purpose. If one could afford both - well why not? Haven't many of us over the years had multiple formats? If not, the type of the photography one shoots should determine what gear one needs and owns.
If buying a 645D fits ones shooting style, spending $10K might make some sense. The risk factor is how Ricoh supports the system.
Yeah, I guess I'm not real worried about the optics of the lenses, just the availability. I don't like to be in a spot where I need a lens and can't find one - or the only thing I can find is possibly some beat up lens. I know there are nice copies out there, but I have seen a fair share of abused samples out there as well. That, and the older lenses aren't weather sealed. Just about a week ago I was literally covered by a 20 foot wave as I shot along the shoreline of L. Superior. I only got the top of it, but it nearly knocked me over. The camera and lens were drenched - and kept right on working! I know the 645 is weather sealed, but I would have needed to replace an older lens for sure - and I worry how long that could take if it's a hard-to-get item. (I get drenched more than I'd like to admit
)
Plus, I think the whole duel system thing is what I've been trying to avoid. Doing landscapes, I'm often hiking or backpacking to locations, and carrying multiple systems is not a real appealing thought. However, it might be the way to go down the road if I could talk myself into it, I usually have a pretty good idea of what type of gear I'll need before I start a hike or overnight trip. Hmm...
And that whole Ricoh thing does have me a bit concerned. I think they'll either do really good OR really bad. Time will tell.
I think for now, I'm going to stay on the sidelines and see what happens.
I do thank you for your insight.