Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D- The Digital Analog Kid
Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D Review: The 'Digital' Analog Kid
June 2009, Carl Garrard
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Introduced in early 2004, the 6.1 Megapixel Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D DSLR signaled an entry into the Digital SLR market for Konica Minolta. An impressive introduction at the time, the 7D threatened both Canon and Nikon as a viable alternative for a professional DSLR on the marketplace. Today it stands as one of the last cameras that Konica Minolta would ever make, and only one of its total of two DSLRs. Sony has long since taken over the camera division of "KM" and as we all know, have done quite a good job at capitalizing on the merger, as well as the design genius that emerged from Minolta's research and development department. This article is a tribute and review of one of the finest DSLRs ever designed. |
As the title of this article hints at, the Maxxum 7D is about as much a perfect fusion between digital and analog as has ever been designed in a DSLR to date. Overall, thats what I love about it most, and thats why I am writing an article for a DSLR that is now nearly 5 years old in design.
Since AlphaMountWorld was launched, I have slowly been adding and collecting cameras and lenses, mainly of course Minolta and Sony gear, but it was the Maxxum 7D that would be one of the last bodies to purchase. Due to reasons mainly of priority and need, the Sony cameras came first. Yet, I guess in a way wanted to save one of the most special purchases for last. Special in the respect that, the 7D sort of started it all DSLR wise to what we all have now in Sony Alpha DSLRs. Tribute must be paid not only out of an eventuality for our website, but mainly as a personal respect for Minolta and all of the engineering greatness they possess(ed).
It is a camera that even by todays' standards is pretty modern and up to date. That is quite an achievement considering 5 years in digital electronics is a near lifetime of advancement. The 7D is indeed a camera that I can use and appreciate today without feeling like I am really sacrificing all that much. Mainly, the lower contrast and resolution of the LCD panel is what stands out most 'dated' wise, and yet I get along with it just fine.
Controls- Buttons Switches and Dials Oh My!
The Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D is much different experience handling wise than any of my Sony DSLRs (or any DSLRs for that matter), namely due to the analog controls that bristle and blister all over the 7D's body. Having also owned the camera that it no doubt was heavily influenced from- the Maxxum 7 film camera, I can attest to the relationship between the two first hand. Comparing both cameras might seem like comparing apples to oranges, and you'd be right in that one exposes film and the other exposes on a digital sensor. Other than that, they are very much alike, and not so much an apple or an orange. Either way, both are engineering marvels that have yet to be equaled in the analog king category.
There are some subtle differences, mainly with the autofocusing speed and relative view inside the viewfinder, but handling wise the two cameras are very similar- and this is a good thing. I absolutely loved how the Maxxum 7 felt in my hands, and if it were not for my Maxxum 9 film camera, I would have been using the Maxxum 7 much more often for film work. Instead, I longed to use the Maxxum 7 more often but secretly wished it was in a digital format instead. My wish came true, as well as many owners of the 7D.
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Just about every setting you would normally be used to diving into a menu for is located on the exterior of the 7D. Up top on the left side are the rotating EV guides for regular and flash exposure (with a clever choice of -2 to +2 in .3ev increments, and -3 to +3 in .5ev increments for regular exposure). On the right side, you have the main menu mode dial for M,S,A,P modes, green P auto, and 3 dedicated custom menu slots (like the A900). A slider underneath that dial controls your drive settings, bracketing, single shot, continuous shot, 10 second and 2 second timer (with auto mirror lock up). To the right of the the mode dial is the dedicated white balance switch and button. |
This allows for quick access to auto white balance, program white balance (sunlight, shade, tungsten, etc...), custom preset wb (3 presets and 1 custom set mode), and lastly a kelvin scale setting where you just pick your own color temperature. Lets not forget the shutter release or front mounted control wheel. Sweet.
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The back of the 7D is mostly about what you can accomplish with your right thumb while shooting. Almost all of the rest of the shooting settings can be reached and changed, starting from the anti-shake switch, all the way up to the auto-focus/manual focus hold/toggle switch and rear control wheel. In between the two you have a dedicated ISO button, a dedicated and customizable memory set button, and a the main menu dial pad/auto focus area toggle switch. All operate smoothly and efficiently, yet mainly after some practice, intuitively. The left side of the camera is where you access your menu, toggle through your display types, play back and zoom in on your images to check focus etc, and to delete them. |
On the bottom of the front of the camera on the left hand side is where your auto-focus type/manual focus and lens release switch are located. On the right side near the lens is where the depth of field preview/focus toggle switch is located. The grip is very comfortable, with an index finger groove that helps to keep the camera secure in one handed holding, and overall helps the 7D to feel more comfortable. The grip is deep enough for small to medium hands, but for larger hands fingertips will press into the body itself. On the last image to the right below, you can see the video out sliding door hatch within the card door, which makes for quick and thoughtful access. The same can be said for the remote access door hatch on the far left image below. These traits were carried over from the Maxxum 7 and 9 film cameras, and I adore them.
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All of this may sound complicated to a person who hasn't used a 7D yet, but let me assure you that the analog buttons are located in such a manner that they become second nature to use and operate. Typically there are two different philosophies in design, lesser buttons and more menu items, or .... how the 7D was designed.
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Great review! I picked up
Great review! I picked up an α100 earlier this year, and for the longest time I had been on the fence about whether I should get the α100 or the 7D. In the end I chose the α100 mainly because I got a great deal, but I still think about that 7d. Just about every time I pick up my Maxxum 7 to shoot some film, I wish I had the 7D because the 7 just feels so good in the hands, especially with the vertical grip on there. I like the α100 and all, but it just doesn't quite have the same quality feel as the 7 does.
Nice review Carl. I like
Nice review Carl.
I like that 6mp sensor, even if it's in the less beefy but still nice 5d. I would love to buy another 6mp CCD, esp useful for low light work as well. 6mp is enough for many jobs.
Nice to see the review at last.
Nice to see the review at last Carl, I know you've been having a ball with the camera. Like Barry I think the 6mp chip is a very good one and I agree with you about the JPEG engine of the KM cameras (I've always preferred the way they handle the JPEGs compared with Sony, even though I shoot RAW).
I also like the mix of traditional knobs and dials on the camera and think there is a place for them on some of the newer cameras. Nikon has decided to copy the rotary dial, giving options for drive, self timer and mirror up etc. Seems some people think it's a good idea, even if Sony don't!
We will never see anything like it
If I had the image quality of the A700 in my 7D I would be very happy indeed. The 7D had the most intuitive controls of any camera I ever picked up, not only that, but the ergonomics are just great. If mine hadn't died on me I would probably still be using it.
7D for the collectors
A greally great review for a fantastic camera -- I started with the A1, which I still use each day professionally in news coverage, along with an A2.
When Walmart was clearing out 7Ds I acquired one, and was so taken with its ergonomics that I got another before their stock disappeared. That New in Box 7D is safely tucked away in the closet, and has resisted all my attempts to part with it.
Thanks for all the comments guys
It was a fun article to put together.
Carl
About 7D "noise reduction"
Carl, your comments about noise reduction in the 7D might need some clarification. A couple of times you mention "setting NR to off" in your high ISO tests... and you also say "I don't turn on the noise reduction until I make longer exposures that would normally create 'hot pixels'..."
Fact is, the so-called Noise Reduction setting in the 7D is just hot pixel correction accomplished through dark frame subtraction; and even if you leave that menu setting on all the time (as I do), it only becomes active with exposures of one second or longer. This is explained on page 77 of the user manual. The 7D does not provide any way for the user to change the camera's actual noise reduction behavior per se.
Yes that is correct
I see what you mean. Lemme work on that section a bit. Thanks for taking the time to point it out here.
Carl
I love my 7D
Carl, thanks for the 7D review. My 7D is the reason I still haven't "upgraded" to any of the Sony models. I think Sony is missing an opportunity to show just how well this camera was designed by taking most of the ergonomics and features directly from the 7D and incorporating them into the top-of-the-line Sony DSLRs. The initial lack of two top dials on the first Sony bodies was heartbreaking for me, and I still find the lack of two dials a curious omission.
One thing the 7D has that no other Alpha-mount camera has is the intervalometer that allows unattended captures at preset intervals for time-lapse or other special circumstances. I use mine all the time.
Also, many of the models I have worked with have commented on the ability to hear the shutter while working outdoors. They tell me it's easy for them to know when I'm taking frames so they know when they can change poses without verbal direction from me. A newer, quieter camera just doesn't relay that information to anyone not right next to the camera body.
Finally, the vertical grip allows the use of two NP-400 batteries OR a sled loaded with six standard AA-size batteries. I always keep the sled loaded with lithium AAs in my bag, just in case. The lithiums will keep in the bag for years without needing to be charged and without leaking, and the worst case would require me to buy new AAs at any store on the planet. This is a feature sadly lacking on almost all new cameras in a world of proprietary batteries run amok.
I was planning to buy the Sony a900, but with my trusty 7D by my side, maybe I can wait for the a950 (or whatever it will be called). Maybe Sony will by then have learned that what they really need is a worthy 7D replacement.
Maxxum 7D
Having retired from Professional Photography a couple of years ago, I decided to buy a used 7D in E+ condition from Adorama, and when it arrived, it was spotless. I installed the latest upgrade that I had downloaded, and have been smiling ever since. This is truly a refined photographic tool that is proving to stand the test of time. Having used the Maxxum 9 for years shooting weddings and portraits, I thought that I would never again find a camera that would give me the same satisfaction. However, the 7D has done just that. I am still waiting for SONY to put out an Alpha model that has a FF sensor of about 12 - 15 mpx, and without all of the video gimicks, etc. that is being used to sell bodies these days. Just give us a no nonsense camera, with dials, buttons, and switches, just like the Maxxum 7D. They will fly off of the store shelves, and give Canon and Nikon the biggest headache they could imagine. I considered the a900, but who needs 24 mpx? I do not intend to print bill boards, and do not need to shoot mice with an elephant gun! Your review was great, and much appreciated. Thank you!
Dynax 7D, in my case
Carl, thanks for the review - if I didn't have a 7D, I'd have to go and get one after reading your article.
I have accidentally come across this web while searching for some info on a Soligor lens. Having read the review, I can sign every word you say. I got my Dynax 7D (Europe market...) in 2007, it was a second-hand purchase. Before that I had a Panasonic LS1 and an Olympus SP 500. Then my dad gave me his old Dynax 505 film SLR, with a flash and two lenses. So when I started thinking about getting my first ever DSLR, I was pretty sure it would have to be a Minolta (so I could use the analog lenses and the flash: budget issues). The body that I bought was in mint condition, with a basic kit lens. I can't say how many shots the camera has taken since it was made, but it works just great. I have been using it rather extensively (as a family and community photographer) - and I have discovered three faults:
1) the rubber grip comes off on the edge closer to the lens. Maybe I hold the 7D too tightly, I do not know,
2) the camera stopped responding once> I had to remove the battery to switch it off and restart,
3) when using a Hoya 72 IR filter, nasty artifacts appear near the edges and in the corners of the image. Maybe this has something to do with the long exposure times (25 secs) and bright sunlight as some of the UV might be coming in through the body walls. Or maybe the camera is not made for this kind of shooting. I know I am probably wrong, but that is the only explanation I can think of. (Suggestions? - please email me: j.kastnerATcentrumDOTcz)
Apart from those three glitches, I am more than satisfied. It is true that the first months were disappointing as the technical merit of the shots was a lot worse than the output from the Oly EVF, but I guess I have learned a couple of things since then. Having the big knob dials and all those buttons available at my fingertips without having to delve into some 2- or 3-level menu keeps me from missing my shot. Well, on most occasions.
It is also the easy-to-reach buttons etc. that I miss in the new Sony DLSRs. I am certain they are fine examples of industrial achievement, yet they seem too software-ish to me. So I guess I am going to stick with my Dynax 7D. When your first car is a Porsche, you do not really want to replace it with a Yugo, right?
Bravo my dear Carl!
I got it during 2006, 100% brand new the European model named Dynax 7D. Some months earlier brought a Dynax 5D...but after less of two weeks sold the body...& kept the "Kit' lens that came with the 5D "made in Vietnam" 18-70mm one...today when finally acquired my A900 one...mount such "Kit' lens on my 7D...which honestly & sadly almost "Don't look it"...anymore...only 3 times a year "Charge' the NP-400 battery.
Because after looking trough a "FF" A900 finder....can't look trough a "Cropped" one...sorry!!!.
Also...because acquired a Nikon D300;/grip fitted ONLY with a 18-200mm VR Nikon zoom lens...which gave me better satisfaction that the 7D...yes I'm an retired/pensioner technically photographer...after been working for 45 years...mainly with 4x5 plates Sinar/Linhof cameras & Hasselblad roll film camera.
Outside use a Leica M4 with 4 lenses + during the 70ties acquired my first SLR...a Zeiss Ikon Contarex with 5 lenses...wow...was something extraordinary...the quality of the Planar/Distagon & Sonnar lenses.
Thanks for such good review on the legendary 7D & now to the A900...really appreciate it very...very...much!
Peace,
Alex!
Answer to Issue Nr. 2, Response Issue:
Hello Mr. Kastner, the Malfunction you mentioned is known as Error58, Err58 or simply First Frame Black (FFB) and it can appear in Konica Minolta Maxxum (Dynax in EU) 7D and 5D.
The solution is to send the camera (JUST THE CAM, no batteries, lenses or something like that) to a service partner from Konica Minolta.
I don´t know where you are from, so here you can look for a solution near to you: ;)
(and all of you with the same problem)
The Problem, stated in KM webpage (yes, it´s still there):
http://ca.konicaminolta.com/information/20070202/01_en.html
The solution, here:
Europe: http://support.sony-europe.com/dime/km/km.aspx?site=odw_en_GB
USA: http://esupport.sony.com/perl/news-item.pl?news_id=120®ion_id=1
I´d love to have a 7D, I have to accept the fact that I only have a KM 5D...but...I still love her ;)
Greets.
I also have a 7D that I
I also have a 7D that I purchased new in early 2005. A great camera. I have had an Alpha 850 for about three weeks, but I intend to keep my 7D. I have a TAMRON 17-50 2.8 and they make a great combination. The analog controls are the way all cameras should be made. I started with a Minolta 7000 Maxxum (which I still have and it works), a 50 1.7 and a 70-210 F4. These two lens work great with my new Alpha 850. I also have a KM 28-75 F2.8, a TAMRON 70-200 2.8, and a KM 70-300. And I have TAMRON 11-18 that I can also use on my 7D.