WTSell: DSLR - Minolta CHEAP! KM Dynax 7D - The Legendary DSLR

[Gadgetman]

Advertisement Category: Want To Sell (WTS)

Equipment Type: DSLR
Equipment Brand: Minolta
Equipment Model: CHEAP! KM Dynax 7D - The Legendary DSLR
Price (S$): 480
Description:
A DSLR that needs no further introduction. Greatly reviewed and revered product that only comes along once in a blue-blue moon. Reviewers don't even call it a camera, they are more inclined to refer to it as a "photographic tool." All owners alike will swear by it. Even in a fast-moving digital-age, the 7D has continually stood as a shining example of how things should be.

To begin with, the 7D is a camera designed by photographers for photographers. Although the camera looks very complex and complicated (not to mention, damned good-looking also), it becomes very apparant immediately that this is among the most easy to use DSLR around. Why? Because nothing is hidden in the menus! Nearly everything can be adjusted manually! The camera body is satifyingly packed and stacked with countless number of manual dials, buttons that crave for your attention. The magnesium alloy body feels solid and is great to hold. So good in fact that you do not want to put it down! I have a A350 at home and this 7D, I don't know why, but I always take the supposedly out-dated 7D out everytime!

Sure this is a out-of-production camera with less impressive specifications than current models. But if you put the lower pixel count aside (6MP), everything else about this camera is still as relevant as any high-end model today! I normally shoot JPEGS at 3M, and believe me, there is nothing I am missing. Maybe that's also the reason why my 14.2MP A350 gets to sit home most of the time!

For those who have started with Sony Alphas, the 7D will be immediately familiar to you simply because the Alphas are based on the 7D and carry its DNA! If you are hard up to get you hands on the alpha 700, but is not willing yet to fork out more money. The 7D is an excellent choice to satisfy your desires for a solid peice of photography equipment. Something that you will proudly hold in your hands, knowing that it will be competent to do the job for you. You may think that I am blowing hot air, but if you are keen on the set, let's meet up and I will give you a no obligation feel of the 7D - then you will know what I really mean!

Please note that I am selling this set not because I don't want it anymore. But because I have inheritied another set from a friend and is letting go of a spare set. You can be assured that the set is very well taken care of and is in 100% fully working coniditon. Save for some minor scratches on the plastic LCD protector, the set can pass-off as mint. Looking for another appreciative owner that can continue to put this legend to good use and carry on the Konica-Minolta legacy!

Priced very attractively at only $480.

Set only includes:
Body (and cap)
Original strap
Battery charger
2 batteries (i original, 1 OEM)

Real Name: Mitch
Contact Number: 98354767

Condition of Item (as per guidelines): 10
Warranty Status: NIL

Package/Accessories/Extras:
As above

 

[Gadgetman]

Receiving quite a number of enquiries on shutter count and price. Based on the image filename, the serial number is only about 2,800. I have not max out a cycle yet (9,999) and thus shutter count must be around 5,000 (factoring deleted files and re-numbering etc.). I have more than one camera and do rotate among them.

About the price, I am willing to listen to reasonable offers, but no low ballers please. I know new A230 cost only $699 with kit lens. But comparing a 7D with a A230 is comparing apples to oranges. The 7D is a high-quality tool made of tough and professional grade materials. The body incorporate a cast magnesium alloy chasis and the grip is made of comfortable and solid rubber. Not forgetting that the camera has excellent handling and is an extreme joy to hold and use. Feel the construction and you will know that this camera was made to weather even the harshest enviroment and still work flawlessly.

BTW, some more facts about the 7D: It even has a Depth-of-View Preview button (not found on the A700) and a nice bright and BIG viewfinder. There are also 3 custom P settings for you to set whatever setting you like (not just lazy scene modes). Compare the A700 and the A850 and you will realised that Sony has back-tracked and put this feature back into its higher end series! One great thing about the 7D is the use of a large fully useable 2.5" LCD display at a time when all the competitors are providing tiny LCD screens. As a direct result of this forward thinking and implementation, the 7D does not look dated at all even till today!

 

[Gadgetman]

As requested by some of you, here are some photos of the very handsome-looking 7D paired with the very versatile Sony DT 18250mm lens (my favorite lens). Very SWEE right? Please note: LENS NOT PART OF THE SALE!!

 

[Gadgetman]

Found an article about the 7D being awarded the DIWA Gold Award in 2005. The article says it all about this wonderful camera:

http://www.steves-digicams.com/came...-slr/konica-minolta-maxxum-7d-slr-review.html

"9. March 2005 - Digital Imaging Websites Association (DIWA), an international organisation of websites focusing on digital imaging, today announced a DIWA Gold Award to Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D. The gold medal represents the highest level of performance and is a summary of numerous rigorous tests conducted by DIWA camera experts.

With the Maxxum 7D, Konica Minolta makes their debut into the fast growing market of digital system cameras. Founded on a long history as high quality camera and optical manufacturers, the high performance Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D comes as no surprise.

It continues the legacy of the highly successful and reputed analogue Maxxum SLR cameras, with distinct design resemblance to make the conversion from film to digital as smooth as possible for any experienced Maxxum enthusiast. Supporting the full range of existing AF lenses, the Maxxum 7D also eases the financial aspect.

Regardless of its background, the Maxxum 7D makes an impressive performance, all by itself. Its exterior is robust and solid as a professional camera, introducing a huge 2.5” LCD screen with an innovative, rotating camera settings display. Professional is also the 6.1 Megapixel resolution with RAW or RAW+JPEG file formats. Yet, the most revolutionary feature is the built-in CCD Anti-Shake image stabiliser, the first ever in any SLR camera. Add to this a highly efficient AF system, fast overall camera response and burst shooting, as well as the new CxProcess™ III image processor for outstanding image quality.

The conclusion from the DIWA experts is that Konica Minolta’s late D-SLR debut was well worth waiting for. Fierce competition is no threat to the Maxxum 7D. It stands out from the crowd and is bound to win many new friends."

 

[Gadgetman]

Hi, there is obviously a lot of interest but apprehension about this product. Tell you what, I will most probably be at Viviocity this afternoon from 4.20pm to about 5.10pm. Bring along your alphas and you can have a no obligation side by side comparison with this legend! I am not hard up to sell anything, just want to share and pass on the camera to someone who can continue to appreciate it. Price can defintely be negotiated, but it must be a price that does not insult the built and quality of this piece of equipment. We can talk about price later only when you are happy with what you are seeing with your own eyes. If you are keen to meet just sms me at 98354767. Cheers! Mitch

 

[Gadgetman]

Thanks for all the interest. Item reserved. Will update availability again if buyer backs out.

Just like to add that the 7D is indeed a joy to use and would urge any beginner or advanced users to give this camera try if you can lay your hands on one. The standard set is so high that it will really set you thinking why even the newer models are not made like that. Some of the brilliant implementation include:

1. Thumb operated af/mf button (found only in higher-end alphas, not even the a500). I greatly miss this on my a350. If AF fails, all I need to do is to push this button and I have manual focus instantly! I don't know how many precious shots I have taken that would otherwise be missed cos the focus won't lock...

2. Manual metering switch. Again this is so easy to access and set with a flick of your thumb. You don't even have to take your eyes off the viewfinder anytime! No need to access the clumsy FN menu...

3. Dedicated WB switch easily accessible by thumb and forefinger. Choice of Auto, Program, Custom and Kelvin settings all instantly accessible.

4. Extremely intelligent AF switch that allows you change modes readily and also manually lock your preferred settings for as long as you like!

5. Uniquie EV compensation mode dial that has two sets of scales in increaments of 1/2 or 1/3 steps - beats a menu system anytime!

And the list goes on and on. I readily wonder when Sony will come up with an Alpha that has all the above again....




4.

 

[Gadgetman]

Hi, I has indeed given me great pleasure to highlight the KM Dynax 7D in this selling post. My intention was originally just to sell off a set of the 7D to another appreciative buyer, but as I got along, I also derive great satisfaction in giving a well deserved tribute to this wonderful piece of equipment that I just went on and on!

I also realised that the hit counts to this thread kept increasing and even when the set is already reserved interest and enquiries and still coming in. Then it dawned on me that not a lot of people, including Alpha users knew about this camera and they are amazed that there is actually a real legend behind the Sony Alpha (Please note that I have no intention to sideline anybody who actually knew and use the 7D before. I knew there are some very senior members here who were and maybe still are 7D users. No offense to anyone intended. Chances are, if you are a 7D user, you will probably share the same sentiments I have anyway!).

IMHO, Sony had also pulled a clever trick by launching the lower-end A100 first. This has the effect of lowering standards and expectations to pave the way for the launch of the A700. So walla, when the A700 is launched, great kudos was given to the "improvements" of the A700 over the A100. If only more people realised that they have to compare the A700 with the 7D and not the 5D or A100 then they will realise that many of the "improvements" in the A700 is directly ported over from the 7D! Again, no offence to fans and users of A700. I am not implying that the A700 is no good. It is probably a much better camera compared to the 7D in many aspects. But what I mean is that credit should also go the the 7D because this is the model where some of the A700 features originated from directly.

Anyway, I think I have gone off the point totally (as usual) and I should continue with my own little tribute to the 7D. Today, I shall talk about the "finer aesthetical touches" found on the 7D that is evident of its heritage as a high-end photography tool. Well, these may not add directly to the fiunctionality of the equipment, they do score great eye-candy points!

1. Subtle and tasteful use of chrome. Obviously a serious photography tool should not be too shiny, but the 7D still managed to have bits of chrome parts around to add to its sophistication. The two manual knobs each have a chrome ring, the strap eyelets are also chromed. Not forgetting the DYNAX 7D logo in 3D chrome and the AS logo in multi-color laser!

2. It would be much easier to print the markings on the manual knobs, but no, the ones on the 7D are raised and painted.

3. The knobs could have been a simple piece of plastic or metal, but in the 7D, a threaded rubber ring is added around each of the knob for the most satisfying and reassuring feel.

4. Like the A700, the strap eyelets are the triangular swivel type. BUT, the 7D even has a well-thought of piece of leather/PVC protector around the eyelet to minimise wear and tear!

5. If you have a chance to see a 7D upclose. Take note of its body contouring. The camera body is essentially a piece of art, with ridges, layers, curves and indentations. These not only improves the feel and handling of the body but is also very good for the eyes. I have taken note that the engineers of the 7D had taken pains to keep parts of the body slim for a better aesthetical appearance. Comparing to my poor A350, all I can say is that it is evident of more short-cuts resulting in a fatter body (again no offence intended to A350 users, I am one myself...)

6. Sometimes, camera makers do cut corners a bit too much. I realised this when I turned the 7D over. Below is a large piece of reasurring rubber base plate that tells the owner: "It's OK to put me down, you won't scratch my underside." Owners of Alphas, turn your camera over and what do you see? Sigh....


1.

 

[Gadgetman]

Set is sold to a very appreciative gentlemen. He told me that he has been eyeing this set since its launch a few years back, but the retail price of $2799 was too much to pay then. At $460 now, he finally got to own his dream camera! In his words, "Its worth every cent!"

Thanks to all who have been following thread and have expressed your interest. The 500 over hit count says it all!

 

[Gadgetman]

A final farewell photo to my 7D. Pictured here with its other brother and the A350 (both equipped with original vertical grips. An awesome sight indeed! Awesome firepower too!

Thought for the day: "Is it the camera or the photographer that takes a great picture? If it is the photographer, then it is the skills that needs to be improved. If it is the camera, then maybe the spec of the camera may be in question. But then again, surely a basic DSLR in the hands of a skilled photographer, can turn in great photos too right? How then can we account for all these great photos taken in the past years despite obvious limitations about megapixels, speed, AF, noise etc in earlier models?"

 

[Gadgetman]

For those who have been folloing this thread, here's another chance to own this awesome piece of photography equipment. A kaki of mine is also thinking of letting go of his 7D as he had already upgraded. He is more easy-going than me and is willing to listen to any reasonable offers. However, please note that his set only comes with one OEM (Eastgear)battery. However, you should be able to pick up spares from ebay quite readily. He had also lost the LCD protector but this should not be an issue too. Set only comes with the body, cap and strap. I have yet to see the condition, but he says its very good (apart from the missing LCD protector). I will not post this item as a new thread immediately, so that those who are following this thread can benefit first. I also do not want to de-grade the value of this camera and also spoil-market for other 7D sellers as their asking prices are (rightfully)much higher. First-come-first-serve basis, please sms me to reserve for viewing. I may not check my PMs as regularly. Cheers!


A great camera body for about the price of some old Minolta lens! It's a deal too good to miss!

 

[Gadgetman]

Here's in response to some request for sample photos taken by this camera. Bear in mind that this is just a "old" 6 megapixel DSLR - certainly don't have all the frills like DRO, Advanced Noise Reduction, Handheld Twilight (I have the HX1 BTW) etc. etc. I am not a pro by all means, but don't the photos speak for themselves? Many of you will appreciate that some of these shots are captured in the most challenging lighting conditions without flash, but you can tell the camera has done a good job at Noise reduction. These are all very recent photos taken within a month. Lenses used are mainly the SAL18250 and the SAL50F18.

1. Dawn at Toa Payoh: Very challenging lighting condition, got to balance exposure between sky and buildings for maximum details and color saturation. Used AEL instead, no such thing as DRO!

2. LV Luggages: Practically no light! This item is still on display at the Taka LV shop. Took me several tries, but was pleased with the final result. Please do check for noise. No PP ok!

3. Buffet: Taken without tripod, minimal lighting. But must admit that the F1.8 lens helped out a bit on this one.

4. CHIJMES at Twilight: Sky already dimming, but check out the colors and details. Again, where is the noise?

5. Leaves: Simple straight forward shot with wide aperture. Note the beautiful colors. Again no PP.

The 7D basically forced me to tweak all settings until the ideal shot is achieved, and everything is made so much easier because its all manual adjustments. If you are picking up photography, the 7D will be the excellent tool to allow you to learn the ropes. Why? Cos curioisty will get the better of you and you WILL WANT to tweak all the knobs and dials to test out everything! And certainly no short cuts like lazy scene modes or fanciful hi-tech manipulation that takes the pure joy out of real no-nonsence photography. With a 7D, you are down to your instinct and basic photography skills. Which exposure mode to use, must I compensate EV further, is the AF mode ideal or shall I go manual, is exposure ideal or shall I force thru AEL? All these questions and more will be presented to you the moment you pick up the 7D. And when it comes to the crux, the 7D will perform beyond your expectations and deliver the results. Photography has never been more fun with a 7D!