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07-21-2012, 11:48 AM   #1
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Pentax film SLR with modern controls?

I currently have an SF10 film SLR, and a K-x dSLR. I'd really like to get a Pentax autofocus film slr that has controls similar to the Kx. Preferably something on the inexpensive side as well. A mode dial and the ability to set the aperature and shutter speed easily through the camera, plus an ISO indicator would be nice. Exposure compensation in aperature priority mode is also a must.

Anything like that exist?

Charles.

07-21-2012, 12:16 PM   #2
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The more sophisticated models of the Z series (named PZ in the US) come very near to Pentax DSLRs in respect of handling and settings.

The follower MZ series (ZX in the US) was a bit of a "back to the roots". The MZ5n is really a Super A/Super Program with built-in winder, flash, and AF (and added bracketing, but much worse VF, but then it was ment to be used with AF lenses). Handling and controls are very near to the Super A, so different from today's bodies.

The follower of the MZ/ZX, the *ist, could also qualify. But I have never touched one, so I can only guess from specs and what I've heard.

EDIT:
Some of of the Z/PZ bodies don't offer a mode dial, instead you are slightly shifting a kind of switch; but the function is the same. With the Z20/MZ20 and better models, you can even run through all possible fitting exposure time/aperture combinations, llike with DSLRs. Keep in mind all these bodies don't support HSM lenses (but power zooms instead).

Last edited by RKKS08; 07-21-2012 at 12:29 PM.
07-21-2012, 12:21 PM   #3
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Take a look here> Welcome to Bojidar Dimitrov's Pentax K-Mount Page

Should have all the answers
07-21-2012, 12:23 PM   #4
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I think the MZ-5n or other "higher end" MZ/ZX model would fit your needs. If you're okay with a pentamirror (not prism) like in the K-x, the more recent lesser MX series would also be good. As for the older AF ones, I found a PZ-1p for peanuts and it is really nice (and fast!), but doesn't meet all your needs (no real Mode Dial). Film cameras are cheap and plentiful these days...

07-21-2012, 12:28 PM   #5
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MZ-S is probably the most advanced as you are going to get, but oh the price, the price!!! If you are willing to live with a more ungainly package, the PZ-1p has fore/aft control wheels.


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07-21-2012, 01:34 PM   #6
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A *ist works remarkable similarly to an early Pentax DSLR. And is a nice little camera as well.
07-21-2012, 02:13 PM   #7
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Z-1P is great.

07-22-2012, 09:54 AM   #8
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agrre with nick.

Pentax *ist film is the closest to digital Pentax nowadays.

11 selectable AF point.
small form.
crippled KAF2 mount ..

it even have back LCD ..






...

Last edited by fearview; 07-28-2012 at 11:17 AM.
07-23-2012, 09:22 AM   #9
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I had a K1000, but found the focus screen lacking. I use a Dakota (Ritz camera brand) K-mount because it has a most excellent viewfinder, it's brand new, and has no light leaks, and the meter is a pleasure to use. BUT, I want a film SLR that I can use my DA lenses on. The 55-300 is perfectly suitable for a full frame, and I have a few others that have no aperature control. This means I can't use them at all on the Dakota, and I am forced to use Program mode on my SF10. Since the SF10 doesn't have any exposure compensation control, there is no way I can adjust the exposure.

When it comes down to it, I'm more comfortable having two cameras that are similar to use, instead of one that I'm familiar with and one that is rather confusing to adjust the settings on.

Charles.
07-23-2012, 09:28 AM   #10
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QuoteOriginally posted by ChrisPlatt Quote
DO NOT try a classic manual focus 35mm film Pentax SLR.
No doubt the controls will be far too simple for your taste.

Chris
While I love the old manual cams Chris, I understand the request. It's about being able to use lenses with no aperture ring for me. I don't have many but I do have a couple. I think the Z1-P is the best for anyone looking for this (I'm still trying to win one cheap, meantime I won and SF1 for $18 yesterday as an interim measure)
07-23-2012, 12:58 PM - 1 Like   #11
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Mmmm...

07-23-2012, 01:32 PM   #12
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nice setup, with the battery grip it looks like a digital
07-24-2012, 05:31 AM   #13
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QuoteOriginally posted by eddie1960 Quote
battery grip
I'm sure you know, but it's not a battery grip, just a piece of plastic... grip for Z1/Z1-p is probably one of the stupidest things Pentax ever fabricated... but hey, it sure looks nice with that FA* in front
07-24-2012, 12:16 PM   #14
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The MZ-6/ZX-L/MZ-L is a great little camera that allows on camera aperture selection as well as aperture selection via ring for M and K series lenses.
While not as robust as the MZ-S or Z1-p, it can also be had for much less money.
07-24-2012, 02:15 PM   #15
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Isn't the *ist a 6.1 MP digital camera?

Charles.
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