[graeme_clarke]

Louis - I have an R9/DMR and an M6. All my lenses for both cameras have been bought either as ex demo or s/h. I looked for good quality items from dealers to get a warranty, rather than buying from ebay.

I too like photographing landscapes, architecture, do a lot of macro wildflower work, and more recently, people and events. The R system is the one that gets the use. It did for a couple of years before I got a DMR when I used mainly velvia. I used b/w film in the M, including a passing phase with I/red.

Now I find I'm using the DMR 99% of the time - for all aspects you mention, and including street photography. I've not found the size of the R/DMR inhibiting, but its weight gets a bit wearing after a time. I use a wide optech strap and find the wrist strap a boon. To save weight I now have to decide what I'm going to do that session and just take the appropriate lenses. Most of the time its the 28-90. For serious macro work I find the 100mm superb. I occasionally use the elpro but more often than not don't need 1:1 reproduction, especially with the DMR and its smaller "frame" size. The almost instant review/revise and see what you get that digital brings is beguiling in comparison to using film!

I have a dual focus 50mm M f2 'cron - but find its much more limiting for close-up work than the R100. I can count on one hand the number of successful shots taken using the close focus facility with the M lens. Focussing is much easier with the R, especially when using the angle finder when you're down on your knees!

All in all then, I agree with many others - for the work you want to do, the R system will cover all eventualities. Good luck with your choice.

Best wishes,

Graeme