What to look(out) for in used RB67?

I haven't looked at MF prices again till just recently, and I'm quite

amazed at how far prices have dropped. So, I'm thinking about putting

together a used RB67 system (lens, body, finder) from KEH.

I don't have direct experience with the RB67 family, but from all I've

read, it seems a high quality workhorse that's been around a long

time. I care about image quality, reliability, price, and support; I

don't care about automation, bulk, weight. So, I've a few questions

about purchase specifics.

1. The KEH outfits seem only to be bundled with either the 90 or 127

f3.8 C lens. Manufacturing consistency seems to have been an issue

with these lenses? Should I be looking to buy unbundled, and go for a

KL first lens directly?

2. The Pro S body seems the sweet spot for value. Am I overlooking

anything?

I'd appreciate any other suggestions you may have with regards to this

first Mamiya purchase. I'm sure there're questions I haven't even

thought to ask.

Robert, you are right, the proS is the best choice, it brings the fully enclosed viewfinder, which is very important and you can only fire it, if the darkslide is removerd and the film is winded.

Go with a bundle, its cheaper than buying body and lens sepereatly. The 90mm lense is very sharp, IMO its good to look for a "C" version, "KL" is alittle better maybe, but the "C" is good enough. The 127mm is also very good, but the focal lenght is not so usefull. Compared to 35mm stuff the RB lenses have about half the focal lenght, so the 90 becomes a 45. All the RB lenses are of high quality, I own 50, 90, 127, 180, 250 and 360, mostly used are 90 and 180, which is IMO an outstanding lens. Important with all lenses is the use of a sun shade, the big front elements tend to flare etc. if light falls on them.<p>

So look for a nice baby and have fun<br>

Martin

> The KEH outfits seem only to be bundled with either the 90 or 127 f3.8 C lens. Manufacturing consistency seems to have been an issue with these lenses?

I have the 90 C and its fine

> Should I be looking to buy unbundled, and go for a KL first lens directly?

I would, but its more

> The Pro S body seems the sweet spot for value. Am I overlooking anything?

Yes, Pro-s

Robert, I have a couple bodies n backs in my closet that I have completely overhauled recently which I want to sell. I don't have any lenses, I'm in need of shutter parts right now, so you'll have to buy a lens someplave else but I can assure you you'll get a great deal.

If you are interested, e-me at automax1@juno.com and we can discuss them.

Something to look out for in an RZ that might also apply with the RB:

When you get the camera, check the underside of the wind lever to see if it's been striking the shaft of the wind knob. If so, that indicates extreme wear of the wind gears (or a very heavy-handed prior user).

I don't recall ever hearing anything about manufacturing consistency with any RB lens. Some of the older non-C lenses are probably old enough that they might have problems due to their age. Most C lenses should be just fine, and considering you're ordering from KEH, I wouldn't worry about it. The KL is the latest and greatest, but most opine that the difference between the C and KL is small.

Pro-S is a good choice. As with the non-C lenses, most Pro will be getting up there in years. The Pro-SD will accept some newer lenses (like the 75mm shift) that the S will not. However, you can always upgrade at a later time.

You've made a good choice both in camera and seller. I've always been happy with my KEH purposes, and the RB is a great MF camera (provided you don't mind the weight) and a fantastic value at today's prices.

I'm a Pro-S owner and actually seller. I have the 127mm C lens and it is very sharp. In fact my friend has compared his 127KL to mine and see's no difference, so research the lens before you buy to see if the older lenses as as good as the newer KL's to save money.

I think what really matters most is your personal viewpoint on focal length as regards what your subject matter mainly is. In the wide open spaces of AZ you might decide on a more normal focal length or even slightly longer for compression as compared to going with a wider angle for subject matter in canyons or on the streets of a city. Overall you would be better off deciding what lenses you would gather as a kit since you'll probably want at least two, and go with a normal progression. Remember that without the metering prism you'll need to compensate for bellows extension beyond a certain point. Btw, if you enjoy macro shots you might want to consider a more normal focal length with an extension tube. Beyond that you'll need a sturdy tripod and a good head.

The weight and size of the camrea can put most people off, but the image quality of 6x7 in transparencies is just beautiful. Alot of the guys are now shooting the RB's as landscapes cameras as compared to the larger format view cameras, but as a handheld walk about camera there are much better choices.