Digital backs for Bronica ETRSi and SQAi

I was reading a comparison of Contax, Bronica, Hasselblad and Mamiya

645 cameras in The June 2003 Issue of Popular Photography as the

similarity of these 4 is their digital readiness. I wanted to write

this for the FYI for those getting in to MF as I ran across a thread

in my research that stated Bronica did not have digital ability. I

ran across it while researching the cameras before I bought one.

 

It was just something I read and let go by paying not much attention

but some of the arguments against Bronica in the thread were that

they have no autofocus are still using leaf shutter lenses so the top

shutter speed is 1/500 and there was not a digital option for Bronica

camears. Yes no auto focus, and top speed is 1/500 but thats what ND

filters are for. But apparently MegaVision and Phase-One make

didgital backs for the ETRSi and the SQAi at 7,000x7,000 pixels and

image files up to 144MB. So for anyone wanting to convert your Bronny

to digi tool you have an option!

 

As for me I am glad of no autofocus, and leaf shutter lenses. These

things are constructed like little tamks and with a speed grip they

are very well balanced. I liek carrying my ETRS through the woods and

over rock and stuff way more than my 1N. The pistol-like feel of the

grip allows for a very solid grip and the build makes for a very

hearty little camear. And since the build is so simple and lenses are

so cheap(compared tot other MFs) they are the perfect wilderness

cameras! Now if I luck out and win my Viewcamera I'll be set for the

summer, I can't wait!

I bought the ETRSi BECAUSE it has leaf shutter lenses. I wouldn't consider an MF camera without. It makes fill-flash so simple.

Hey Daniel,

 

I am interested to know more about the MegaVision and Phase-One stuff. Do you have any more info about them, like specs, price, etc?

Yes I bought into the Bronica because of its leafshutter lenses and durable build.Also because the system is completely modular allowing me to customize the camear to my needs. The interchangeable backs, different finders and extension tubes and grips make the camear much more than a Pentax or the Mamiyas built in the time of the ETRS. But much more than anything as compared to other 645 cameras they have interchangeable backs. Another reason I bought inot Bronica over Pentax or Mamiya. Alot of people were complaining in that old thread that Bronica was not being innovative and improving the line-up. I feel it doesn't need improvement. What, change the body so it looks liek a spaceship? Add autofocus so the people who buy them can no longer afford them? I bought it for the very high quality glass and great handiling at a very affordable price.

 

I know the Mamiya Pro has interchangeable backs but hte used price is twice that of Bronica too. The PEntax does not have optional backs or finders, it does have a hell of a lens line-up but I am happy with my 50, 75, and 150.

 

As for the Digi backs The article only lists the names of the companies, Phase-One and MegaVision. I suppose you could do a search and find them. I have not had a chance yet as I am cramming for midterms right now. I read the magazine for a break!

I looked on the B&H website...you don't want to know the price (the same as a small car). It's also only a 6MP sensor, which will be nothing in a couple of years' time. Buy a big consignment of film, a MF scanner and take a round the world trip instead :-)