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M6TTL vs MP?


krissheldon

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When we visited Leica at Solms in 2004, they said that the MP and M7 were replacements for the M6TTL, which is now discontinued. The MP (for Mechanical Perfection) is claimed to have some 150 (don't remember the exact number) improved parts or other upgrades. Both MP and M7 have an improved viewfinder with reduced flare. The M6TTL can be upgraded with the new finder, I understand. The original (not an ala carte model) MP has the small rewind knob that is more robust, and the smaller shutter speed dial that turns in the direction of the classic M series (The M6TTL and M7 have the larger knob that turns in the other direction). Also, the MP is slightly shorter as it does not need to accommodate the TTL circuitry.

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Well the rangefinder viewfinder clarity and the TTL function obviously. In practice I think the placement of the shutter speed dial on the 6ttl would drive me nuts. The MP everything falls to hand, and you can roll through the shutter speeds while you are depressing shutter release. Should imagine the guys using the soft release spaz thingy things put their finger tips on the shutter release and dont notice the difference.

 

For that reason if someone offered me either or, I would pick up the M6 over the TTL. But if I wanted to do flash stuff ... it might be worth hearing out someone who uses both 6 and 6TTL with flash before deciding.

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Says Puts - "The black laquer version has a very strong emotional signal that relates back to the original M3 and forces you to adjust your photography and photographic style"

 

Is it something special that Leica put in the paint? Obviously if you use a chrome camera your photos will be inferior.

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I have 2 TTL's with upgraded finders that I use with sf20's when "required" in TTL mode. I've been very happy with the results. I thought of trading them up to M7's, but I didn't see enough value in the AE and the flash synch speed is still an abysmal 1/50th sec.

 

I have used the MP as well and even the lacquer "high" couldn't generate a sufficiently powerful Reality Distortion Field to justify the spend. I don't get the increased height complaint and the transport and shutter just didn't seem that different from a well broken-in TTL.

 

Maybe I'm just inordinately frugal, but I can think of other things (like travel) that I'd rather spend the money on.

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I think I agree with think. I love the bigger shutter speed dial of the M6TTL and I really do not see the rationale in going back to the smaller M3-type at the MP. I would let the viewfinder serviced to get the right finder, the M6 is softer in handling/leather.

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Hmm, the direction of the shutter speed dial on the M6 (and MP) slows me down. One has to turn it against the arrows to set the exposure, whereas the aperture goes with the direction of the arrows. The direction is definitely better on the M6 TTL/M7/M8, but as for the size, the jury is still out on that one. I *might* prefer the smaller wheel, but I need to use both cameras more before I decide.

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One has to turn it against the arrows to set the exposure, whereas the aperture goes with the direction of the arrows.

 

 

MP ??? Turn it in the direction of the arrows - just use the back of the wheel nearest the forehead as the guide !

 

Rolo

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MP ??? Turn it in the direction of the arrows - just use the back of the wheel nearest the forehead as the guide !

 

Rolo

 

Exactly Rolo. That's what I've been doing for years with my M6 :-)

 

As mentioned above, use the index finger. No need to use two fingers to adjust the shutter speed.

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Ergonomically, the M6TTL shutter dial is an improvement. But I sold mine in favor of the earlier models. I suppose when it comes down to it, shutter dial direction is towards the bottom of the list of desirables when deciding which model to shoot with.

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I must confess that I really enjoy shooting the M6, due to its lesser height and different material, and especially because of the sound of the shutter. It is not wildly quieter, but the sound is also just much more pleasant than the M8. I cannot imagine wanting to sell the M6. Perhaps for an MP, but I would likely end up with both.

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Hmm, is this a trick I don't know? It sounds very contorted. Which finger?

 

Not contorted and you'll find it very logical. Yes, it's the index finger.

 

Isn't it amazing how this Forum works.

 

A simple task, in this case using the speed dial, can confuse you until someone/many points out how they do it and all becomes clear.

 

We all gain by tiny insights like this. I certainly have and will continue to do so.

 

Great Forum.

 

Rolo

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