Titans of 6x7: Mamiya RZ67, Pentax 6x7 MLU, Bronica GS-1 compared

[@mackrun8248]

The most generous, sincere, and informative camera video I've seen yet. Thank you.

[@Der_Marc]

Best comparison so far on YT - still after 8 Years. Thank you Sir

[@OneDegreeLife]

Thank you!

[@GaltarDude1138]

This is the exact kind of video I have been looking for, and KZbin absolutely refused to let it pop up in the search results. I had to find it in a photography forum that was talking about 6x7 cameras. Thank you for making this

[@OneDegreeLife]

Wow! Thank you for letting me know! I’ll look at adding some newer tags. Thank you!

[@luissalazar2021]

Maybe I was crazy 25 years ago. I did a weeding with my Rb67, yes I did used a tripod , and the prints were outstanding and I wish not had sold the negatives. Good memories 😎

[@GeorgeStar]

I haven't regretted going for the GS-1. Great bang for the buck, great lenses, handles well, light and small for 6x7. The rotary finder is excellent.

[@jeremoe1]

Excellent video; very informative. Thanks.

[@OneDegreeLife]

+Najja Foluke Thanks!

[@zeljkoplavsic784]

This is what would i called review.Hour long and lots of useful information.Thank you for the good work

[@OneDegreeLife]

Thank you for watching!

[@brianrae1624]

I love the Bronica cameras! great deals can be had because people don't know much about them and the lenses are fantastic. I shoot with a Bronica SQ-AI 6x6 which is pretty much from the same era as the GS-1 but shoots square (obviously). I'm really satisfied with this system and will get myself a GS-1 soon.

[@kylemccourt663]

I have a GS-1 from the 90's that I shot with commercially. What a great camera. I teach analog photography and spend my full time days in a darkroom, so I still shoot frequently with it. I am so very fortunate. Great video though!

[@TheMrBennito]

if I wouldn't have informed myself through your thorough expose, I would probably have opted for the P67, as I have a P645 and a 35mm P as well. Switching to 6x7, I find the pro's of the Bronica ,based on yr personal experience, decisive to give that system a serious try. As I will take the cam mostly out in the field/street. Keep up the good work, and: I absolutely did not experience your vid as 'rambling' !

[@ryanbartels2188]

TheMrBennito thanks! If you end up getting one, I hope you love it as I did! I’m currently shooting the 6x6 SQ from Bronica and love it. Although I do prefer the 6x7 ratio, the 6x6 forces me to look at things differently and prevents me from having to rotate the orientation. Good luck in your hunt and shooting! Cheers

[@TXLorenzo]

Love my Bronica GS-1. I can rotate the camera faster than a RZ67 user can turn the back, not a big deal for me. The RZ67 is a fantastic studio camera, trying to make it a run and gun street camera, not so much. Like you said, the ergos on the Bronica for a 6x7 are hard to beat and the glass is fantastic. The Bronica GS-1 with the grip and hot shoe is probably the easiest and most flexible 6x7 you can buy, IMHO.

[@charm2501]

Thank you very much for making this video. Great overview of each system and I thought your portrayal of each ad very well done. Big help, thanks again!

[@czarnobyl86]

The most informative video about these systems I've seen on YT so far. Thanks a lot!

[@OneDegreeLife]

Glad you found it helpful! Cheers

[@czarnobyl86]

@@OneDegreeLife , I'm curious what you think about these systems after 7 years since you made that video. Personally I'm hesitating between Pentax and Bronica. Pentax with it's 1/1000s min s/s is definitely a great option to shoot wide open in day light especially paired with it's legendary 105mm f/2.4. On the downside, prices for a body in decent condition and that 105 lens are ridiculous. On the other hand, Bronica's modularity makes it incredibly attractive (especially having multiple film backs). The downside is the lack of even one very fast portret lens. I wonder if you have any experience shooting 110mm f/4.0 macro. Anyways, if you have any thoughts on these systems having spent several years with them I'd be curious to hear about it. All best!

[@OneDegreeLife]

@@czarnobyl86 Ha, it’s tough to say. I’d like to blend a few aspects of each. Today, it seems like Pentax has far more lenses/accessories available, however, as you mentioned, the demand has pushed the prices. One thing to consider is that many of the older, beautiful Pentax lenses do usually have significant yellowing. Not a big deal if you shoot BW, but some copies can render significantly warmer tones on color film. Despite the faster lens options for Pentax, the multiple backs on the Bronica, for me, was a good trade off because if I knew the situation demanded it, I could spool a higher speed film in a second back and was good. So, despite some slower optics, I actually prefer the Bronica over both the Pentax and Mamiya at the end of the day. With the grip, it’s wonderful to shoot, not too heavy, more versatile, and produces excellent images. But the handling is very subjective. The modular nature made it great for packing various ways and offered versatility while shooting that the Pentax didn’t. Conversely, if someone is shooting film because it offers a somewhat simplified approach and they want to rock a single, fast lens, then the Pentax might be a better companion as it, after all, just a massive SLR and the right lenses can offer great speed. I’m sure you’ve considered all of this as well. In a nutshell: I’d take the Bronica 9 out of 10 times. But I sided with versatility mid-shoot over simplicity. Hope this helps.

[@kalenderquantentunnel9411]

It tells a lot if such a comparison is still helpfull after such a long time. Well done! I'd like to add, that the Bronica is even easier to use handheld as you can grab it like a Hasselblad. Put the box in your left hand from the bottom and your index-finger will fall right on the release-button. Focussing is done with your right hand. You need big enough hands as the box is wider but for a former Hassi-user it feels like coming home and finding your furniture got just a tad bigger.

[@OneDegreeLife]

@@kalenderquantentunnel9411 thank you! Indeed. I’m sure the SQ is right at home since it is 6x6. Very true about the slight size bump for the 6x7 here. Thanks for contributing! Cheers

[@maketelma]

finally a fully fledged and practical presentation on bronica gs-1. thank you!

[@OneDegreeLife]

+maketelma Hahahaha, I ended up buying one on gamble since I didn't find a lot of vids. Loved it. Figured I'd share because even if there's only one other person looking like me, they'd find it helpful :) Thanks for commenting! Cheers

[@jakubrostkowski6420]

thanks fot this massive comparison. its probably the best bronica gs-1 review ever made and it helped me to decide to get the bronica :)

[@OneDegreeLife]

I'm so glad you found it helpful. I hope you track down a great copy and that you thoroughly love it!

[@rickyjackson4242]

I've researched these systems for months, and purchased the RZ67II. This is the most informative and helpful review I've found yet. Thanks for your commitment to excellence, man.

[@OneDegreeLife]

Congrats, Ricky! Yep m so glad you found a system that will work for you! Thank you also for taking the time to watch and comment. I’m always encouraged when the work helps others! Take care.

[@jamesjacocks6221]

Great review. Used the RB and Pentax and, as you said, they are very different but also very competent. I eventually ended up with a Rollei 66 and Linhof baby as my two system roll film cameras but each camera has its merits. What I really like is that you (like myself) are a working pro and therefore avoid useless prejudice and misunderstandings. We all gain when experience speaks.

[@OneDegreeLife]

+James Jacocks Thank you for the kind response and sharing your experience as well. I'd love to work with a Rollei, but out of my price point even today. In addition, the Linhof would be nice to work with as well. I've considered getting a 4x5 of some sort, but I'm not at the jumping point there yet. If you ever do a video on those two, I'd like to check it out. Cheers and keep up the love of film :)

[@brianentz2785]

Excellent. Thanks so much for the systematic and comprehensive layout. Very informative. I'm looking at the Bronica system. I already have the ETRSi, but may want to add the GS-1. Very exciting. Well done.

[@OneDegreeLife]

Thanks, Brian! I'm currently using the Bronica SQ-A the most often and love that as well. It's the only MF camera still in my working inventory that shoots 1:1 so it feels the most unique. Hope you enjoy whatever you decide on!

[@AnaloguePhoto]

Extremely useful comparison and look into these different and still similar systems. Thanks!

[@rockyrails]

As a commercial shooter I never considered the Pentax as a pro camera due to the lack of removeable backs - on a big fashion shoot I would have at least 5 backs pre loaded and a polaroid back to test lighting and show the client and art director a test shot. I wore out a few RB's and then switched to the GS-1 as it is more compact - eventually I switched to blads forcthe phase one backs - all the medium formats were considered small when the bulk of what you shoot is 8x10

[@Seapatico]

It is so entertaining to watch someone who truly knows what they're talking about.

[@636117]

I was shooting Mamiya 7 16 years ago on Maui. Big time easy to use.

[@mkshffr4936]

The Mamiya has the advantage of available 645 backs for an almost ideal aspect ratio. Also the RB versions are fully mechanical so no batteries or electronics failures to worry about.

[@joshmcdzz6925]

but they still fail.. As a matter of fact electronics are more durable than mechanical cameras.. just keep them from salt water..

[@AlexandruMusetoiu]

very good review, thank you very much

[@cerog83]

The Pentax 6x7 is my dream camera!

[@OneDegreeLife]

It's great stuff. Would love to try a 67ii, but the metering is really the only bonus as I see it. This one has MLU if I need it and all the optics are the same. I've considered parting with it numerous times as I've been wanting to try more 6x6s, but I simply can't part with it. All three are wonderful though in their own right! Cheers!

[@TheMrMKultra]

What I really like about these, although the Bronica might be underrated, is that none of these systems seems to be underrated. Every one of these systems has its benefits and best use cases! Really cool to see.

[@joshuakucko1304]

excellent video, super informative. ive never watched a video this long on youtube but this was certainly worth it

[@MichaelCarter]

Thanks for that. Great work. I have 2 6x7s, and have learned to use the pentaprism hand held indoors with a flash vertically or horizontally using the awesome 165LS lens.

[@longde]

Nice video. I have owned the Rb67, P6x7, and the Bronica ETRSi which is like a 6x4.5 GS-1. The RB67 is a perfect camera if you don't need to carry it outside. The Pentax is great for outdoor use. The GS-1 is the most advanced of the trio and is more or less an improved RB67, however the lens selection is more limited than the Mamiya system (particularly with the RZ and the RB67 pro-SD). All systems have great lenses however I'd say the Pentax has the most "magical" lenses, particularly the 90/2.8, 105/2.4, 150/2.8 and 165/2.8. They allow for enormous DOF range.

[@diordrama]

Great video! A lot of work went into this! Just a word of warning though don't lift the RZ by the prism. The very small prism lugs do bend in time.

[@alejandroruiz4202]

Wow this is what I needed. Thank you for this upload.

[@PerroneFord]

Great stuff man! I played with a Pentax 67 years ago, and just got an RZ II last week. This comparison should help a LOT of people.

[@OneDegreeLife]

Great! I hope you love the RZ. Brilliant camera system! Thanks!

[@breakdiinternet7186]

Very informative, thank you! I own two AE1 and yours has the shutter "squeak" problem, its very easily fixable! When you don't have that ugly squeak, the shutter is also very satisfying on this 35mm beast of a camera

[@OneDegreeLife]

Yes, I was able to fix it soon after with some minimal oil! Thank you for your response! Cheers

[@120love9]

This is great! Thanks for doing this. Any plans on doing a review on the "Slim Jims" of 6x7 (Mamiya 7, Makina 67)?

[@OneDegreeLife]

+120 Love I'd LOVE to, but I don't have the funds or time right now. Perhaps in the future, but, unfortunately, it's unlikely. Thanks for watching these fatties though! :)

[@RetiOrchid58]

Thanks muchly. I've only seen a couple of segments thus far, but this is a great resource and very well presented video.

[@shinichihayakawa7619]

Great video with a ton of information backed by firsthand experience! 39:44 I believe the exposure comp. scale is for non-TTL shooters, because the TTL meter will automatically compensate for the loss of light by bellows extension.

[@OneDegreeLife]

Thanks for commenting! Yes, you’re correct - from everything I can recall about the Mamiya. TTL would take into account light levels directly. If you’re using the WLF or exposing with a reflected/incident meter, then that would be different. I did want to explain how the bellows perform differently than traditional focusing with regard to light loss, but I probably could have made that part a bit easier to understand if I wasn’t discussing it right after the prism. Thank you for making the comment as I’m sure this will help others! Cheers

[@FreezerKing]

Good video! Word to the wise, though: make sure the lens is off the Pentax 6x7 when removing or attaching the prism, or you run the risk of breaking the chain that tells the prism what aperture is selected.

[@Nat.ImagesLarge.F.Photographer]

Mamiya extraordinary camera, it only has one problem: after the first use you can no longer leave it, impossible, wonderful, you cannot do without, marvelous!!!

[@usanineoneone]

Very informative video. I have both the bronica and pentax and would have to say the bronica is a more practical system for most applications. I use to use it at weddings (sorry, digital now) where the Pentax would be impractical for weddings. The mirror/shutter action is so smooth you can use much lower shutter speeds hand held than the Pentax. Tried selling the bronica on ebay several times but couldn't bare letting it go for so little. As you said, "an under rated camera" so they don't have much second hand value.

[@OneDegreeLife]

usanineoneone TOTALLY AGREE WITH YOU! Very underrated and you're correct, the mirror/shutter is smooth and very well-dampened. It's very hard to appreciate until you've tried it - esp. compared to other 6x7 options. It's right on par with the RZ and that's a compliment. The Broni is a VERY good value. As I mentioned, too bad there aren't more/faster lenses for it and that some of the accessories were easier to find. I actually prefer it's proprietary cable release to the standard probe cable used on the other systems, but it's not as easy to find out there. I'd hate to part with it, ESP. for the prices they fetch, but I can't keep all three. Been trying to determine which will stay around for my shooting needs and I haven't been able to make that decision yet. Thanks for the input! The more the better!

[@morkoffey7573]

I thought that was really good. Excellent work. Nice to see these side by side. MFF is certainly a commitment...

[@OneDegreeLife]

+Mork Offey Thanks for the comment!

[@jeffhubbard4688]

I've had an %RZ67 for ten years, with the prism finder. The thing weighs a ton, but the images are superb. I can also tell you that at least until 2011, fashion/celeb photog Rankin used RZ67's in his studio, but with a Phase One digital back, and a mono-pod lol.. His images speak for themselves - superb camera and lenses.

[@nunca_te_acostaras]

It's possible to find a channel that covers all topics I love? yes, it is. One Degree Life! congrats man!

[@OneDegreeLife]

Hey! Thanks for the comment. I'm hoping to start posting again soon. Hope you'll swing back by later and see if anything else is intriguing! Cheers

[@sghound]

thx for this. the most helpful guide on 6x7 ever.

[@photomaster1]

Thank for doing this.. It is about Damn time someone who had access to show the monsters...

[@OneDegreeLife]

:)

[@TheMistermike87]

AMAZING video and still very helpful today. Thanks!!

[@ronmorse5624]

I really enjoyed your excellent video. I have had the Mamiya system for years but have never tried the other two so I learned a lot from this. I went digital in 2005 with a Canon 20D and kept upgrading until I ended up with a Canon 1DS MK III. I finally got sick of the incremental upgrades and went back to my film cameras. I am glad I kept my film gear which is easily upgraded with a different film. Thanks for this video.

[@OneDegreeLife]

+Ron Morse Great to hear from you! Ya, the obsession to get every iteration of digital is kind of a pain. It was nice to have good lenses and a quality shutter speed and then let the film change as needed. I miss that too and am sorry to see so many excellent brands out there disappearing from the film shelves. Luckily, there are still good stocks to be had, and I hope this lasts for a while. I went digital in 2004 with the Nikon D70 and loved it. I too have bounced all over the digital spectrum since with Nikon, Canon, Fuji, Olympus, Panasonic and Sony. Each offering different strengths and weaknesses. When it comes to portraits, for me, film still has a massive appeal and I'm loving 6x7. I'm shooting some 35mm on my N80 as well, but due to expense, I'm more selective about what I shoot most of the time. Ownership of the process - selecting film stock, loading, shooting, developing, etc., really is a calming experience. Thanks for the comment and happy shooting.

[@andrewford80]

Great response and I feel much the same way as both of you guys. I'm sick of having to buy the latest and greatest bodies all the time in the digital. Film is great and the process is so rewarding. Long live film!

[@OneDegreeLife]

If we can only keep Fuji, Kodak, Ilford and the like manufacturing our adored film stocks

[@andrewford80]

Well I was talking to some people recently at our traditional printmakers group and also at a local photography store and the consensus is that there is definitely a resurgence in those shooting film. So that's good news. I hope that it means that it continues to be profitable for those making the film. Not to mention paper and chemicals.

[@BKLisaP]

SUPER informative video. I favor Bronica but haven't seen such in depth comparison elsewhere. Thanks so much.

[@etienneportail5122]

“ Full-time live view “😹 Thank’s for the very helpful review!

[@mike_qbik]

Uao . . I am sure no one of the especially-you -the-knife-people group expected this one coming ;-) I love it, I used to have the Pentax but moved over the digital and now passing all the Nikons D2x and D3, D800 ...settled with the new Leica Q - and I have to say, it does buzz the same "body" sensors... . like the Bark River knife does . . hold on a sec...what did I just wrote ;-) It its not just the "fetish" sensors , but delivers outstanding quality pictures. Respect to everyone blending art to two different parts...knife art and photo. ... one have to see to appreciate it and the one who does understand, knows that there is a connection within good craftsmenship. The makers of these photo tools should have statues . . . Light Adrenaline, respect! great work. Greetings from Prague, Mike

[@OneDegreeLife]

Mike _72 Hey, Mike_72! Wow, thanks for the great post! Never been to Prague despite my work in Europe and Africa. Would love to go some day! I agree, good craftsmanship comes through in solid design, usability and quality output. I've been in the Canon, Nikon, Olympus and Sony camps in digital. All are great for what they are. I'm currently using the D4 for sports, head shots and team pics. Recently sold my D3s (should have kept that one), D800 and D700. For light travel (got to when carrying around MF gear!) I've been happy with the Sony a6000. I'd love to get my hands on the new Leica. Looks like a great camera from a company with great heritage! Try as we might, though, we can't have them all - though that would give us the best feel for what's really available. Ha. As a photographer/designer/writer who works upwards of 80-90 hours per week from Aug-Dec. and then tapering off to 50 in the spring, I get kind of tired of the gear. So, when it comes to videos, I'm always doing what I-don't-have-time-for-most-days, e.g., get outside and enjoy nature. So, for my "down time" I've been doing videos for fun on that area. I have lots of other outdoor items I'd like to videos on and even some other photo products, but time is not usually on my side. Thanks again for the post and enjoy that Leica and BRKT!

[@hoppertungsten9829]

This video is outstanding. Thank you for taking the time to make this informative video. A treasure trove of information.

[@OneDegreeLife]

+Hopper Tungsten Awesome! Thanks for the feedback!

[@derrenleepoole]

Excellent video. I've just invested in the Pentax 67 system, and some of your insights are very informative.

[@OneDegreeLife]

Great to hear! I hope you love it!

[@oudviola]

Thanks for doing this video, very informative and helpful indeed. This plus a few others plus the book on Medium Format cameras by Michael Freeman convinced me that the Bronica was the best system for my purposes, mostly outdoors not studio, mix of handheld and tripod, not action shooting. I've had my camera for about a year now and love it. Scanning is the biggest hassle, but that's the same issue for all film of course. One point you might add as a comment in the video; I had an electromagnetic remote release for my Canon DSLR and it works fine on the GS-1. So it does not seem to be necessary to buy the Bronica remote shutter trigger, which while not too expensive is not always available. I use mirror lockup and remote release regularly even in bright outdoor light, to reduce vibration. A propos, once the mirror is up one can't use the metered viewfinder as it continues to meter but the light is whatever comes to its sensor from the eyepiece with the mirror up, nothing to do with the actual lighting of the subject. When I use mirror lockup (with or without remote shutter release), I check the exposure with the meter then manually set the recommended shutter speed (with whatever exposure corrections) before triggering the shutter. I often just walk around holding the camera with the speed grip, not really a problem at all for weight. Good shooting!

[@OneDegreeLife]

Hey, Mark! Glad to hear from another Broni owner! Thanks for the comment about the Canon release. I didn't add it to the video, but it was mentioned in a previous comment as well. I was in the same place on film. Recently finally got an Epson 550 and have been pleasantly surprised by solid scans. I'd use a pro lab or drum scan for any serious printing, but for my digital needs, it is very good. Cheers!

[@oudviola]

There's a Bronica user group on Yahoo, very knowledgeable folks if any questions arise. Cheers.

[@OneDegreeLife]

Great to know!

[@jakobtragardh]

Great video! (even if I have to say: I own both the Pentax 67 MLU and the 1998 67II and the latter is a huge improvement with the AE meter and other features-however, none of them sports a build-in flash shoe, both models needs a hot- or cold-shoe (both types exist) mounted on the front side. The 67II brought the system up to par with mid eighties pre autofocus professional 35mm SLRs).

[@OneDegreeLife]

Thanks for the input! I'd like a II, but i don't feel it would offer me ENOUGH of an advantage over what I'm getting here with how I shoot. Despite it's limitations and drawbacks, I love it. Cheers!

[@AmbiencePT]

I only shoot handheld so the Pentax always wins for me. The 105 f2.4 pop is legendary and the 55mm (Distagon) is ridiculously sharp. It's the only 6x7 system that gives you a set up of fast f2.8 lenses (75mm, 90mm, 165mm). You just can't beat that beast !

[@OneDegreeLife]

+AmbiencePT Agree with all of your points. Since I'm not suring strobe nearly as much with film - mainly available light portraits - I'm using the Pentax more and more. In fact, I'm going to be adding a 150 f/2.8, 165 f/2.8 or 200 f/4 soon. I'm also looking at a 75mm, but they are slow. The 55 equiv is a little too wide for me at this point, but who knows in the coming months. Cheers!

[@AmbiencePT]

+LightAdrenaline The 165mm is really nice, but like many others I rarely use it. The 75mm f2.8 AL unfortunately is way too expensive for my pocket ! Maybe one day... Cheers !

[@OneDegreeLife]

+AmbiencePT I've heard good things about them as well. Ya, I can get the camera, 105, and tele and have money left over. I love shooting film, but CAN'T justify the price it still commands either! I'd rather get a P645 with a few lenses first. Ha

[@neilpiper9889]

55mm f4 is a Pentax lens. Distagon is a Zeiss lens.

[@baseballman74]

Come back to us! Bring us the outdoor adventures! You were good!

[@OneDegreeLife]

Thank you for the kind comment! I have several things planned I'd like to share, but finding time has been a challenge lately. I hope to have some new content up in the coming weeks though! Cheers

[@franz1068]

hey, finally got my pentax 67 MLU, ur video was very very helpful. thank you so much :) greetings from germany

[@rajeevchaturvedi8239]

Very-very helpful comparative review, thank you.

[@antoniostuppia900]

Great review, thank you, learned a lot. i ve the bronica etrsi 645, planning going bigger on the gs1

[@ethan47671]

Watching in 2021. Super cool

[@seventyfiver]

Thanks for this great review. Just bought a Bronco GS-1 because of what you said about it. I’m really looking forward to shoot it!

[@OneDegreeLife]

No pressure on me then! Ha. I sincerely hope you love it as I did. I've since parted with all of these to pursue other cameras to try out and am currently shooting a Bronica SQ-A primarily. In fact, I just scanned some negatives this morning. I may even try an ETR series at some point. I just think Bronica is underrated, ESPECIALLY the wonderful GS-1. It may not have any "legendary" optics like the 110mm 2.8 Mamiya or the 105mm 2.4 from Pentax, but it's a superb system and I found no issues with the optics. Good luck with your new system!!!!

[@bospas6664]

seventyfiver where did you buy it?

[@williampower2333]

Not 75'r, but I got mine off E-Bay! I would look for one with the 'G'grip & the 'Rotary' finder,as it has spot metering; very important to use all the film's Dynamic Range! Think Ansel Adam's Zone System! Also, forget 220 backs or Polaroid, as neither films are available! The Manual is readily available on-line & a careful study is imperative to make the right choice! Patience!!!

[@seventyfiver]

Well, after having this baby now for 3 weeks and having shot 3 rolls without seeing the end result because I'm too lazy to pick them up from the camera store, I can finally say something about the GS-1 :-) And I can say that the grip, the handling and the 'shootability' of this camera is absolutely phantastic! I already own a Mamiya RB 67 Pro SD, a Mamiya C330 Pro F, a Kowa SIX, a Pentacon 6 TL, and several other 'pocketable' 6x6 cams like Zeiss Ikon Super Ikonta and so on. Every one of those has a special field for using it. I have to say that, apart from the Pentacon 6 which has its own littler quirks (light metering, all mechanical), neither of which gives you that confidence and convenience of shooting handheld as the GS-1 does and it ticks many boxes in terms of usability in a variety of different fields. For a medium format camera it's really quick too shoot and considering its not negligible size and weight, it surprisingly really feels sort of a big 35mm with the grip. So that's it, I'm super happy, you were right, I love you for bringing it on, go on with your show, people will love it ;-)

[@seventyfiver]

Hi Bospas, after wanderingh through ebay looking for the GS-1 I found an offer for a GS-1 including the PG 110mm with original Hood, prism finder, G-grip, remote trigger and IR Filter. Because the owner had other items I wanted to buy I wrote him and asked if he would do a package prize. We made an agreement and I was really really lucky to get the Bronco and 2 additional Mamiya RB67 backs for about half the usual ebay price. :-) The more the word is spread about this camera sadly the more the prices will go off. If you want to buy one, do it now. Also look at it as an investment. Not that I'm considering to sell mine really ever, because it's truly a wonderful camera and i like to shoot it very much!

[@emilyxturner]

Super helpful! Convinced me on the Bronica, thanks!

[@OneDegreeLife]

Emily Turner Hahaha, awesome! I'm going to have to list 1-2 of these soon on eBay to just make up some costs because I'm never going to pack and use all three! Ha. I have a soft spot in my heart for the Broni. Best of luck in your search and shooting!

[@emilyxturner]

Well if you decide you can do without the Broni, you have a potential buyer here!

[@OneDegreeLife]

Hahaha, well, a lot has been going through my mind over the last several days and weeks. I think I'm going to get a 645 camera to supplement my 6x7 shooting - give me more shots per roll and a smaller package when needed. I think I'm going to get a Pentax 645n/ii (I mention this in the video too I think) and can pair the P67 lenses with it via an adapter. I'll be losing lots of modular system advantages (sync speed, modular backs, quieter operation/slap, better ergos with the GS-1 and more), but it looks like I might end up keeping the Pentax for a while. So, after pondering it for a while, I've gone ahead and listed the Bronica on eBay tonight. A bit nervous about if it's the best decision. Only time will tell I guess. They're all great systems for what they are, but theres something special about the GS-1. Regardless of if I end up selling the P or RZ (so much invested in the system) the GS-1 will be the hardest. I'm just very fond of it. Anyway, just giving you a heads up in case you are genuinely interested :) If so, the item number is: 321811569463 Cheers.

[@mixc8]

LightAdrenaline I own both the RZ67 Pro II and 645, I got the 645 simply because it's a lighter camera to carry around outdoors. Your correct when I put everything on my RZ67, from film winder, grip, remote trigger etc. It's a true beast to carry around. When I do take it out I strip everything down and just attached the waist level viewfinder with a neck strip then it's not so bad to carry around.

[@OneDegreeLife]

Yep, it's got some heft for sure. For handheld use, it's the Pentax or Bronica out of these 3, bronica probably the best handling, but P67 has some faster lenses to enable faster shutter. Thanks for the input! I'm looking to try out a P645n now.

[@j.c.m5168]

Everyone stay away from the Bronica GS-1. Just stay away. You don't want these. (I say as I work on buying up and entire kit and hoping that nobody drives the price up. Haha) Seriously .... The GS-1 is all win in comparison.

[@AustinMClary]

Good lord what an outstanding video. Thank you for putting this together.

[@FKfilmphotography]

Thanks for taking the time to create such an informative video.

[@cowboygareth]

u look like someone who breaks jaws for a living(I'm sure you actually can) while delivering a most thoughtful and well researched analysis on high end art cameras. Loving the contrast Lol Keep up the great work brother

[@OneDegreeLife]

Hahaha, thanks for the feedback!

[@CARLOSGUTIERREZ65]

One of the best videos I've seen in a long time. Great job! Subscribed!

[@OneDegreeLife]

+Carlos Gutierrez Thanks! Hopefully I'll get back to doing other videos on some camera stuff in the future! Cheers

[@perryjude1230]

Excellent video! Thanks 😊

[@DannerPlace]

This is an excellent video, great information. Enjoyed!

[@OneDegreeLife]

Thank you for the feedback!

[@danaherd]

The Bronica GS-1 was designed to be light. Its lenses are slower meaning a smaller but faster leaf shutter can be used .. maximum 1/500 whereas the Mamiya maximum is 1/400. The Bronica does have a TTL flash available. The Pentax 67 ii also has TTL flash capability. Fastest Bronica lenses are PG 100mm f3.5 and the really rare PG 80mm f3.5. Bronica lenses: 50, 65, 80, 100, 110 macro, 150, 200, 250 and extremely rare 500mm. These are roughly equivalent to 35mm format of half those focal lengths so: 25, 32, 40, 50, 55 macro, 75, 100, 125. There are extension tubes available 18mm , 36 mm. For nice head shots the 150 or 200mm lenses may need an extension tube for closer focus. A 1.4x multiplier can also be used for portraits as it will produce head shots. The 110 macro will got to 1:1 with the 36mm extension tube.

[@OneDegreeLife]

Yes to all. But I do think that TTL on the Broni has to be with the Broni flash. I see most "flash" users these days using a handheld meter and external strobes. Wish the Broni lenses were more available these days. I think this camera would have a bigger following.

[@richardshedd7382]

Hey Ryan, thanks for the great comparison you did of these three cameras. I learned enough to go ahead and pull the trigger on a Bronica GS-1 system today. I also shoot sports only with a Nikon D3s kit. And while I can get amazing digital images, I find that film is simply more pleasing to my eye so I've begun getting back into it for my personal work. I'm scanning my negatives rather than wet printing at this point, so I'd be interested in knowing some more about your process--post film development. Best regards.

[@OneDegreeLife]

Great to hear about the GS-1 Richard! It's a wonderful camera! Right now my post dev setup is very "simple". Because I was shooting a lot of color during my travels, etc., I was having the lab do the dev and scan for me. On the BW end, I made a make-shift scanner with my DSLRs, mainly because I had virtually all the big components to do it and my extra funds were going toward actual gear. Basically, I made a light box out of, well, boxes, and have a 500 effective watt 5000K LED bulb lighting from below in a basic work dish with a frosted cutting board as the surface. I have a magnetic film holder that keeps the film pretty flat and then I use live view on my camera with a macro lens and focus on the grain of the film under magnification. I set the camera to monochrome and then balance the histogram to try and preserve tones and use a smallish aperture to preserve the edges. The lens is an older 60mm Nikon but it works great. I purchased a step-up ring for it and a 105mm metal hood that offers extension, a platform on which to rest the setup and it's still within the focusing limits of the lens. I don't get really any lens creep even under camera weight, so it works good. This set up allows me to be parallel to the negative, or very, very close to it. I take about four pics with a FF DSLR (more on an APS-C if needed) for 6x6 and six pics for 6x7 and stitch them in the computer. The updates to LR have been VERY good at photo merge lately and I haven't noticed any weird stitching. So I stitch in LR, then dump it to PS and invert, crop, adjust contrast, curves, etc. Then save. I started shooting more and more BW so now that I'm "seriously shooting" film again, the wife has agreed that a scanner is a good call :) Plus she can use it for her scrapbooking, etc. Since I'm only really scanning BW I'm going to just get a V600 for now. If I find it unsatisfactory, I'll either continue the photo stitching as it offers excellent overall output - it's just a very time consuming - or I'll do this until I save up for something like a v700+. For web and sub 18" prints, I'm sure the v600 will handle the task well. I can always have my local lab do a high res scan for anything crazy. Luckily, I have a pretty good lab in town. Hope this helps a bit with whatever curiosities you might have. Cheer and enjoy that camera! Help keep film alive!

[@richardshedd7382]

Thanks Ryan, interesting process you have and you probably get some really good images that way. FYI: I found the cost of my V600 paid for itself by offsetting those high lab expenses. One downside of the V600 are the flimsy film holders. It is a bigger problem with 35mm film strips because the film curve was stronger than the thin holders so they would not lay flat. Quality improved by adding a Betterscanning glass strip for sure. And, Betterscanning also makes aftermarket film holders with glass strips for all the Epsons too. Probably the best all-round solution. I eventually found a Minolta Dimage Scan Multi Pro on Ebay and I can honestly say it was a step up in image quality from the V600. I use it with Vue Scan software. While I love the Minolta, my new issue is that I picked up a 4x5 camera and neither of these scanners will scan 4x5 film. I had high hopes for the V800/850 until I discovered their film holders have a design flaw being 1mm too narrow. Epson's fix is apparently advising customers to trim their MF film strips to fit--really! Based on my experience and research, it seems to me that the V700/750 may be the best alternative to get 35mm, MF, and 4x5 capability with improved image quality in one scanner at a reasonable price. Hope this was helpful.

[@OneDegreeLife]

Awesome, thanks for the heads up. I was going to do the BS glass for sure, but thought the adjustable plate was a bit much if I'm just doing the 600 series. I knew the 700 series did 4x5, but lots of the stuff I've seen was wet mounted on a glass sheet. Can the 800 not do this too? It's weird that the 800 can't do it but the 700 can. Epson's recommendation here is ridiculous - destroy your creation to accommodate our design flaw? Odd. I usually really like Epson stuff. I'm planning on ordering the 600 this week or next (won't have time to use it for at least two weeks) and getting both 35 and 120 glass from BS. Hope this does the trick and makes my life easier! Cheers!

[@terrywbreedlove]

Back in the day I used to shoot the Mamiya RB67. I now shoot a Hasselblad which I love. However I do miss the bellows focusing on the Mamiya because you can focus so close with it and any lens mounted.

[@doptimist]

This is such a good review, thank you! Peace and love from Ireland.

[@pietrocorbetta8763]

Great video!! Thank you!

[@brianrae1624]

FYI any electronic cable release like the Canon RS-60E3 will work on the Bronica GS-1. the Canon branded one is 24$ but they can be had generic on Amazon for 9$

[@jaymus5]

Fantastic video. Thank you for your analysis!

[@OneDegreeLife]

Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment! Cheers

[@jhernandez79]

Very great video! I just got an RB67 I like shooting it. It is so heavy though only shot it handheld a few times.

[@OneDegreeLife]

+jhernandez79 I almost got an RB myself. Yes, they are quite beasts. Because of center of gravity, they can be easier to stabilize so motion blur, under some circumstances can be avoided (especially with bottom-held cameras like the boxy Mamiyas and Bronica) vs. super light systems, but the flip side is also true - heavier means harder to manage over extended periods. In the end, I always find the efforts worth it for the results and though a tripod kind of slows down my personal shooting style which is somewhat mobile, it's worth it in the end. Cheers

[@jhernandez79]

LightAdrenaline Thanks again for your informative videos.

[@Warioda]

I enjoyed the vid. Those mammoths are all very appealing.

[@SuperUltraWorm]

Excelente video. Thanks you clear it everything.i go with the Pentax

[@vadimbecker9934]

Thank you for a super good video. Very professional and very useful.

[@OneDegreeLife]

+Vadim Becker Thank you for taking the time to view it and for sharing your support. It is greatly appreciated!

[@radavies]

This is a great comparison, thanks for putting it together :)

[@lemmor6791civ]

Very Good comparison... don't apologize... you are good presenter...

[@OneDegreeLife]

Victor del Razo Thanks for the kind feedback!

[@vedabou]

Great Video! And thanks for linking my Bronica video!

[@OneDegreeLife]

+vedabou Your video helped me see more about the system and I felt it would be a great bonus here! As far as I'm concerned, the more we can share and learn the better! You are welcome and thank you for your contributions to the field! Cheers

[@Jessehermansonphotography]

thanks man. that was a great video. I shoot Bronica and I always love to find a good video of one. wasnt even searching for that and that's the one I'm gonna get.

[@OneDegreeLife]

I love the GS-1. I highly recommend that grip and I doubt you'll be disappointed. I just wish the accessories were more readily available. Thanks for watching and good luck in your search!

[@Jessehermansonphotography]

So, reading through the comments I see that you sold the Mamiya and Bronica and kept the Pentax. I actually sold my Bronica ETR to get 6x7 format but I am getting lured in by a 500cm. The original plan was to get a GS-1 but the Pentax is cheap as well and for some reason in all the flickr pics I feel like the Pentax gets consistently sharper pics. I already have a 4x5 so the Mamiya is kinda out of the picture for me, I think that would be a Tripod type camera. Might have to do the Pentax hmmm.

[@OneDegreeLife]

Yes, I sold the Mamiya and Bronica because I simply couldn't justify keeping three systems over the long haul. My reasoning was based on a few things. The RZ67 is by FAR the biggest and heaviest, though also arguably the most versatile and had the brightest VF by FAR. I loved the system and the images are superb!, but the other two offered equally good output (except for close focusing) and since I did/do take it with me when I travel across the world, size became a biggie for me. With the Bronica and Pentax, it was a hard choice. The Bronica actually has better ergos with the grip IMO and I like the GS-1s viewfinder better. However - and this is the real shame of the entire issue with the GS-1 - the used market is really bare compared to the RZ and P67 lines and the lens/accessory options are limited to begin with, so you have a double whammy. The Pentax offers a larger lens selection and faster lenses and there are more of them on the used market in great shape. So, for ME I decided to keep the Pentax DESPITE the fact that it 1. doesn't pack as small (not modular), 2. has a slightly dimmer VF esp. with slower lenses, 3. is much louder, 4. has only a few leaf shutter options, 5. has terrible grip ergonomics IME without a right-handed third party handle (not the Pentax left sided deal), 6. is more cumbersome to load. If the Bronica used market were broader, even with fewer focal lengths and slower speeds, I'd probably have kept the GS-1. I really do love that system. For anyone who is patient enough to obtain a quality FL they need in the GS line, that camera is splendid. Luckily for me, mirror slap hasn't been a big issue hand held and I can always tripod it if necessary. For landscape shooters, this isn't a big deal - tripod and MLU are your friends. I shoot portraits about 97%+ of the time with MF film and that, for me at least, is a little more "reactionary" so I'm usually hand-holding it. I don't shoot film much in the studio now, so this was also helpful. If you do shoot studio and are worried about flash sync and need more than the abysmal speed the P67 offers, I'd seriously consider the Bronica for universal use and the Mamiya if weight and size are no issue - unless you can get by with the LS options from Pentax. Since posting this video I've added a walnut right hand grip, a magnifier eyepiece, a chimney FV, a 75mm f4.5 lens and the latest version of the 200mm f4 lens to the outfit. Like the flip down magnifier I show in this video for the Mamiya, it only enhances the center of the frame, but is helpful nonetheless. The best accessory by FAR has been the grip as it no feels kind of like shooting a slightly inflated D4 since I can easily grip it in my shooting hand. I plan on adding a late version of the 55mm f4 or a 45mm f/4 in the coming months. Since I mainly shoot people, this FL hasn't been nagging at me. Again, the great thing about the P67 is the sheer abundance of lenses and VFs. Mamiya kind of still wins here - or it did when I was hunting parts - but the Pentax offers great availability and since the P67II still circulates somewhat widely, I don't see this market caving anytime soon. They'll likely phase out film first - Lord forbid it! Kind of a long post, but I actually had a few minutes before hitting back-to-back-to-back athletic events and thought this might help you/others see where my thoughts where several months post filming this. Cheers

[@Jessehermansonphotography]

that helps a ton and I will tell you that it is seriously appreciated. A lot of reviews online come down "what is best for ME" and it kinda doesn't really break down why it is exactly good for them. seeing this video was excellent but reading your replies we all can get a better idea of exact nuances and such. I feel alot better informed about making a decision. I definitely appreciate the long reply because it is so detailed when trying to make a decision that, IMO is pretty important. I'm probably gonna go with the Mamiya RZ since size doesn't really matter to me, the local camera shop has one in really good condition, the lenses are fantastic from the pics I have seen online, I can use different backs for some landscape stuff (BW vs Velvia 50) But I see why you picked the Pentax now. thanks again. I'm sure someone else will read all this and learn even more.

[@OneDegreeLife]

I REALLY miss those interchangeable backs!!! The RZ is exceptional. Another big plus is there are plenty of backs on the market for the RZ whereas they were kind of hard to track down for the Bronica - such a shame. I hope you love whatever you get! MF film takes a bit more thought and there are a few more hoops to jump through, but it's WELL worth it in the end. Cheers my friend.

[@TheRobertSt]

What? Not PUT together well? I did see some 'aaah' and some 'uuumh', but it did not bother me! I shoot only with Hasselblads (mostly) so this was a real eye opened for me. Thank you!

[@OneDegreeLife]

+TheRobertSt Hahahahaha, thank you for the kind words! I know I can ramble a bit and have been called out on it before. Wish I could work with Hassies, but only done so distant second hand. Cheers!

[@truthseeker311]

Great job, thank you 👍

[@EDHBlvd]

Great overview. That Bronica is awesome. It is too bad Fujifilm is killing they old instant film. Most stock for the FP-3000 B&W is gone and they stop manufacturing about a year ago. I'm pretty certain the color 100 will also stop soon. If someone would make Fuji Instax wide film backs for these old Medium Format cameras it would be epic. Someone needs to do a Kickstarter.

[@OneDegreeLife]

+Rediscover Film Hahaha, I agree. the-impossible-project.com is about our best hope for now I guess. Take care

[@YoYoYo]

Best review for 6x7 cameras. 10x

[@thedondeluxe6941]

Great video! So much camera goodness here :-)

[@CHayaPhoto]

Fenomenal! Thanks for taking the time to share

[@pawelkostulak9955]

What a fantastic review, thank you!

[@JabariHunt]

Excellent video, thank you!

[@mamboferido4741]

Bronica has very good lenses. I use the ETRS and its crazy good. But if I have the cash, I'm getting that glorious RZ!

[@OneDegreeLife]

Mambo Ferido I almost got an ETRSi last year as well. Decent fast lens options and great reputation as well. Bronica is lovely. The RZ is a beast compared to the ETRS, but if it's advantages appeal to you and you don't mind the overall size once fully configured, it's a dream of a camera with EXCELLENT VF brightness! Hope you get one!

[@noeggi]

Best video on youtube about these Titans 👌🏻

[@MprivetM]

Thank you for this video. I'm still not sure which one to buy 🤣

[@TrapPhoneLoveMelodiesss]

Awesome review! Thank you!!!

[@Nearest_Neighbor]

Very well done.

[@pandaenthusiast01]

Great video. Very informative. Thanks for taking the time to put this together. I am looking to purchase a 6x7 in the near future and this was helpful. Do you have experience shooting the RB67 or just the RZ?

[@OneDegreeLife]

I haven't owned one, but a guy I knew had one. Little heavier I think and there's the separation of the frame advance and cocking the shutter, so there's two different actions needed, but big whoop, it's the same on my old TLRs too. I never shot film through it so I can't attest to the results, but I do know it's very good. Slightly less versatile and a more limited selection of lenses overall given compatibility which was a BIG reason I went with the RZ line as a minimum and I have no regrets. There are a lot of great videos on KZbin obviously, so be sure to check those out. Wish I could be more detailed for you, but that's my personal understanding/experience with the RB. Best of luck! I'm sure you'll love whatever you get. 6x7 is a wonderful medium. Cheers.

[@johnrflinn]

Don't forget the Mamiya Press Super 23. It can do 6x9 as well as 6x7 and has 50mm, 65mm, 75mm, 100mm, 127mm, 150mm and 250mm lenses.

[@TOShorts]

I wouldn't say the Pentax 67 is like a 35mm camera. Most 35mm cameras are SLR's, meaning you are seeing whats through the lens and what is going to show up on the film. The viewing system on the Pentax 67, on the other hand, is rangefinder style. Big difference.

[@OneDegreeLife]

That actually isn't correct. Perhaps you are thinking of the Mamiya 6 or 7 series which are rangefinders. They feature the side viewing window with the framing lines inside. Fuji made some similar offerings and now has the X-Pro line. The Pentax 67 series is a true SLR style design. The only view is through a prism directly over the moving mirror and shutter plane.