Used Mamiya M645 AFD II Medium Format SLR Camera Body

SKU: US1945944

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Review Summary

2008-04-29T21:00:00

Rated 5 out of 5

Difference between it and the AFD I

The Mamiya AFD II is an excellent camera, it is fast, built like a German Panzer, and has an excellent assortment of lenses that will have you sneering at your Canon 70-300mm. Some may say it's a bit large, but if you're ever mugged it doubles as a wonderful bludgeoning device. As a studio camera, it is rivaled only by the RZ67 IID. Everyone knows the AFD II is incredible...but what's up with it's forgotten little brother, the AFD I? I had a Mamiya AFD I before, and was sorely disappointed to find absolutely no information on it anywhere. Not even the Mamiya website really mentions it or has the instruction booklet. In the event you find yourself able to buy an AFD I for a good price, I say go for it! They really aren't that different. You can use the AFD II instruction booklet, but be aware of a few differences I will highlight. Tests with a gray card yielded very similar results with the camera's TTL, though the AFD II was able to focus faster (not too evident until you are in a low-light situation). I also noticed a sharper picture at the edges when using a wider angle lens. Normal lenses yielded almost identical photographs. The MAIN difference is the lack of a devoted focus lock on the AFD I. Also, the mechanism that controls the TIME mode is radically different. They expect you to start the exposure on the TIME setting, and turn the knob to a different to end. Way to add a billion stops of camera shake for no reason! In addition, there is no CUSTOM FUNCTION knob on the AFD I, either. Finally, one may have issues when using the new zoom lenses and there have been reported issues with the firmware and the digital back. Mamiya will upgrade the firmware, or offer you an excellent deal to upgrade to an AFD II, in most cases. I'd also like to point out that the AFD I came out a good while ago and, while a demo or fresh used version may seem appealing, prolonged periods of disuse dramatically lessen a camera's lifespan. All in all, if you don't mind a few minor differences, don't be afraid of an AFD I if it's in good shape. These two images were taken in horrible, bare tungsten lighting conditions. I had to apply various filters, again losing more light. The first one from an AFD I, the second from an AFD II using identical settings but different angles to show a wider range. Notice that you can't really tell the difference in contrast or clarity.

Vik

Mamiya M645 AFD II Medium Format SLR Camera Body Specifications

  • Type

    6x4.5cm format (actual image size 56x41.5mm)
    Electronically controlled focal-plane shutter
    TTL multiple mode AE
    AF single lens reflex

  • Film Type

    120 roll film (16 exposures)
    220 roll film (32 exposures)
    Polaroid Land Pack Film (100 & 600 series)

  • Lens Mount

    Mamiya 645 AF Mount Compatible with M645 mount (manual focus confirmation, focus aid, stop-down exposure metering)

  • Film Loading

    Automatic advance to first frame when shutter release button is pressed (Easy Loading)

  • Exposure Compensation

    +/-3 EV or +/- 5EV (1/3, 1/2 or 1 steps)

  • Viewfinder

    Fixed prism viewfinder magnification
    x0.71 Built-in Diopter adjustment -2.5 to +0.5
    (separate diopter correction lenses provide adjustment ranges of -5 to -2 and 0 to +3)
    Built-in eyepiece shutter

  • Focusing Screen

    Interchangeable:
    Matte (supplied with camera)
    Grid (Checker)
    Manual Focus Microprism for M645 lenses

  • Field of View

    94% of actual image

  • Viewfinder Information

    Focus mark
    Out-of-focus direction marks
    Aperture value
    Shutter speed
    Metering mode (A, S, A/S AUTO)
    Exposure compensation value (difference between set value and actual value)
    AE Lock
    Bracketing Position
    Battery Checker

  • AF System

    TTL phase-difference detection type, normal or spot

  • Detecting Device

    4 CCD line sensors in a | + | shape (area indicated on the focusing screen, 10.8x 3.6mm)

  • Infrared AF Sub-Beam

    Activates automatically under low light, low contrast in Single (S) AF Mode Switchable On/Off.
    Range: 29.5 ft. with 80mm f/2.8 AF lens
    Automatic switching to flash unit's built-in sub-beam when Metz flash unit is attached with SCA 3952 adapter

  • AF Lock

    Half-press on shutter release and AF Lock Button

  • Exposure Control Modes

    Manual (M)
    Flash Sync (X)
    Time (T)
    Aperture priority AE (Av)
    Shutter priority AE (Tv)
    Programmed AE (P) with program shift: PH and PL settings possible

  • Metering Method

    5-segment evaluative center-weighted average (AV) with bright point elimination Spot (S) Variable Ratio Auto-Shift (A-S AUTO)

  • Setting Steps

    Shutter speed and aperture both can be set in 1/3 or 1/2 steps Electronic dial lock (in X, M, Av and Tv exposure modes)

  • Light Metering

    TTL metering; center-weighted average (AV), spot (S) and auto A-S variable ration

  • Metering Range

    EV 2 to EV 19 (with ISO 100 film, f/2.8 lens)

  • Film Speed

    ISO 25 to 6400

  • AE Lock

    With AEL button; released by re-pressing or power switch off; light metering value differentiation in viewfinder exposure compensation display when AEL button is held down; +/-6 EV (1/3 step); shift from set to metered value in M metering mode

  • Shutter

    Electronically controlled vertical metal focal-plane shutter

  • Shutter Speeds

    AE: 30 to 1/4000 sec. (1/8 step)
    Manual: 30 to 1/4000 sec. (1/2 step)
    X (locks shutter speed to 1/125th sec. while allowing for full control of aperture values)
    B (Bulb, electronically controlled)
    T (Time, mechanically controlled) Automatic shutter curtain open mechanism (opens when film magazine, Polaroid holder or digital back is removed, automatically closed when re-attached)

  • Auto-Bracketing

    Enabled with Auto-Bracketing button (2 03 3 frames selectable) , 0.3, 05, 0.7, 1EV step units selectable

  • Flash Synchronization

    1/125 sec. or slower, automatically sets to 1/125 when shutter speed dial is setto higher speeds (when Metz flash unit is used). In P mode, the shutter speeds are controlled to 1/125 1/60 sec.

  • Flash Transport

    Automatic via built-in motor, single or continuous exposures 1.2 frames per second.

  • Multiple Exposure

    Enabled with Multiple Exposure Button (2 to 6 exposures or unlimited); can be cancelled. More exposures may be dialed in before exposure set is complete.

  • Mirror-Up

    Electronically-activated by Mirror-Up Button

  • External LCD

    On camera body:
    Aperture value
    Shutter speed value
    AEL Battery check
    Programmed AE
    Programmed AE shift
    Flash Compensation Indicator (Over/Under)
    Auto-Bracketing indicator
    Multiple Exposure indicator Self-Timer indicator
    On Interchangeable

  • Data Imprinting

    7 segment dot matrix DATA mode imprints:
    Exposure mode
    Aperture value
    Shutter speed value
    Exposure compensation
    Bracketing position (normal, over, under)
    Metering mode
    ID number
    DAY mode imprints:
    Year Month Date
    ID number (switchable between enabled and disabled)

  • Sync Terminal

    X contact (sync speed 1/125th sec. and slower)

  • Cable Release

    On shutter button

  • Remote-Control

    Terminal On side of body (works with remote triggering devices and electromagnetic cable releases)

  • Self-Timer

    With shutter release mode selector 2 to 60 sec. (default setting: 10 sec., can be set in 1 sec. steps between 2 and 10 sec., and in 10 sec steps between 10 and60 sec.)

  • Depth-of-Field Preview

    Preview button on front of camera, aperture can be changed during DOF check

  • Tripod Socket

    1/4 inch and 3/8 inch included

  • Power Requirements

    6 AA batteries (alkaline-magnesium or lithium)

  • Size

    6"(W) x 5"(H) x 7"(D) (153 x 128 x 184mm)

  • Weight

    61oz. (1730g). w/o batteries

  • Custom Functions

    36 custom settings

About Mamiya M645 AFD II Medium Format SLR Camera Body

FEATURED REVIEWS

Difference between it and the AFD I

By Vik

The Mamiya AFD II is an excellent camera, it is fast, built like a German Panzer, and has an excellent assortment of lenses that will have you sneering at your Canon 70-300mm. Some may say it's a bit large, but if you're ever mugged it doubles as a wonderful bludgeoning device. As a studio camera, it is rivaled only by the RZ67 IID. Everyone knows the AFD II is incredible...but what's up with it's forgotten little brother, the AFD I? I had a Mamiya AFD I before, and was sorely disappointed ...

View full Review

Responding to the demands of medium format film and digital shooters, Mamiya hasincorporated the latest auto focusing technology into the new 645AFD II. In addition to a faster, more sensitive focus response, the 645AFD II offers a selective spot or wide focus area within its " + " CCD focus pattern sensor array.

As you would expect, single, continuous and manual focus overrides are available as shooting situations change.Mamiya designed the new 645AFD II with the necessary features and functions to seamlessly support both film and digitalcapture all in one camera system.

Mamiya pioneered the world's first true cross-platform film or digital camera, and now includes its latest MSC (Mamiya Serial Communication) data transfer technology in the new 645AFD II.

All critical exposure and shooting information is internally exchanged between the camera and compatible digital camera backs. Whether you're shooting film or digital, it's the most affordable and technologically advanced medium format camera available. The 645AFD II is loadedwith 36 custom functions.

Individual camera preferences such as 1/3, 1/2 or full aperture/shutter speed increments, flash synch speed, dial functions, exposure compensation increments,bracketing sequence, dial direction setting and much more are easily set and recalled in a snap.

In addition, separate user configurations can be set and recalled on-the-fly when several photographers are using the same camera.

Dedicated "Quick Action" buttons have also been designed into the 645AFD II for fast activation of such functions as multiple exposures, auto-bracketing, key lock, auto exposure lock and auto focus lock.

The Mamiya 645AFD II combines sophisticated advanced features, integrated microprocessor controlled electronics, enhanced performance and the quality of medium format film or digital capture with the power of proven World-Class Mamiya autofocus optics.

Mamiya M645 AFD II Medium Format SLR Camera Body Features

  • Manual Focus Mode (M) Selecting this mode cancels auto focus. The focus mark appears inside the viewfinder LCD panel when the image is in focus, and a focus aid feature indicates the rotation direction of the focus ring with marks.
  • Simply move the focusing ring of the lens forward (away from the camera) and thelens is now in the manual focus mode. It's as simple as that; there is no need to remove your eye from the viewfinder or move the focus mode selector lever on the front of the camera to "M".
  • upper part of the back, operated with the thumb.
  • Choice of focus modes to suit the subject
  • Single AF Mode (S) This mode puts priority on precise focusing at the moment the shutter is released, ideal for still subjects. Focus is fixed when the viewfinder LCD focusmark lights. AF lock can be activated in this mode by pressing and holding the shutter release button in the halfway position. This is ideal for off-center composition.
  • Continuous AF Mode (C) This mode puts priority on shutter release, continuing to adjust focus even while the shutter release button is being pressed. It is best for moving subjects; focus is not fixed even when the focus mark lights.
  • The Auto-focus Clutch:The 645AFD II Telephoto & Zoom lenses, plus the ultra-wide angle 35mm lens have a quick-change A.F. clutch mechanism that allows changing from auto focus to manual focus & back again in a breeze. This is ideal for sports, portrait, & wedding photographers on the move that need to switch rapidly from auto focus to manual focus
  • To change back to the auto focus mode, simply move the focusing ring back to itsoriginal position and start shooting.
  • Exposure modes to complement a full range of photographic needs
  • P) Program AE Mode This mode automatically determines optimal exposure settings, using pre-programmed aperture and shutter values to ensure exposure accuracy under ambient lighting. Digital dial-controlled program shift enables adjustment of shutter speeds and aperture in 1 EV steps from (P) mode.
  • (PH) favors faster shutter speeds and larger apertures. This is ideal for movingsubjects or shallow depth-of-field used in many portraits.
  • (PL) favors slower shutter speeds and smaller apertures. This is ideal for landscape where control of depth-of-field is needed. These settings provide a versatile response to most shooting conditions. This mode is ideal for general photography without the need to make adjustments.
  • (Av) Aperture Priority AE Mode This mode emphasizes the depth-of-field effect of aperture setting on the image.Simply adjust the aperture value with the digital dial to the appropriate setting, and the camera automatically adjusts shutter speed to match. Aperture values can be set in 1/2 steps.
  • (Tv) Shutter Speed Priority AE Mode This mode emphasizes the effect of the shutter speed on the image. Set the desired shutter speed via the digital dial and the camera automatically adjusts aperture value to match. Shutter values can be set in 1/2 steps.
  • (M) Manual Mode This mode enables the photographer to have total control over both aperture and shutter speed, and is best used to adjust settings based on readings from a separate exposure meter. The rear dial adjusts aperture value while shutter speed is set using the front
  • Both values can be set in 1/2 steps. The photographer can put half pressure on the shutter release to view the difference between set values and values meteredby the camera and displayed in the viewfinder LCD. The difference indications disappear from the LCD panel when set values match metered values.
  • (X) X Mode This mode fixes shutter speed at the sync speed of 1/125 sec while allowing adjustment of the aperture setting. In this position, the exposure dial locks and cannot be rotated. Perfect for easy flash operation.
  • (T) Time Mode This is a mechanically controlled mode for long exposures. It consumes no battery power.
  • Three metering modes provide detailed information about lighting conditions
  • (A) 5-Segment Evaluative Average Metering (Center-Weighted) This mode meters the average brightness of the entire image, with emphasis on the center of the screen.
  • The four outer segments plus spot area are measured, the brightest of the outer four eliminated and the remaining three plus spot are averaged together for remarkable results is challenging lighting situations.
  • (S) Spot Metering This mode meters reflected light on the image at a specific point, indicated by the circle at the center of the viewing screen. It is optimal for use with high contrast subjects and for measuring brightness at a specific area of the subject. The angle of acceptance changes according to the focal length of the lens attached.
  • (AUTO A-S) Variable Ratio Metering This mode automatically switches between 5-Segment Evaluative Average and Spot modes depending on the relative contrast within the overall image; it provides exposure settings suited to a wide range of subjects and lighting conditions.
  • Ease of use Digital control dials simplify aperture and shutter settings without having to move from the viewfinder Shutter speed and aperture settings are adjusted using a pair of digital dials.
  • Adjustments are made using the front dial located near the shutter release button, operated with the right forefinger, and the rear dial on the upper part of the back, operated with the thumb. This ergonomic layout enables fast, easy adjustments without distraction while constantly observing the subject through the viewfinder.
  • Even when using the camera without a tripod, settings can be changed without removing the right hand from the grip. The viewfinder and body LCD panels provide full information at a glance in AE modes and manual mode.
  • LCD panels show exposure conditions and camera settings at a glance A digital data communication system centralizes control and makes it possible tosee full information in the viewfinder, body, and film magazine LCDs.
  • The viewfinder display shows information about current exposure conditions. Thebody and film magazine displays show current settings and selections, all in an easy-to-understand intuitive format.
  • Film magazines allow use of both 120 and 220 roll film without separate inserts.The 645AFD II is a camera for the digital imaging age. Interchangeable film magazines enhance creative application of the 6 x 4.5cm format.
  • The 645AFD II carries on a proud Mamiya tradition of interchangeable film magazines. In addition to the 120/220 roll film magazine and Polaroid film back,the 645AFD II also supports digital imaging with Mamiya's unique MSC protocol.
  • Uses standard and inexpensive AA batteries Alkaline batteries are easily available worldwide and one set of fresh AA alkaline batteries will last for about 140 rolls of 120 film. One set of lithium batteries will last for about 340 rolls of 120 film.
  • Time Saving Features Auto-detect of First Frame of Film The 645AFD II is the only auto-focus medium format camera to have auto-detect of the first frame. There is no need to line up the START arrows; the Film Magazine automatically seeks the first frame of film. The result is quicker and easier loading of film and less chance of film
  • Half- and Third-Stop Shutter Speeds The only medium format camera that has precise selection of shutter speed valuesto 1/2- or 1/3-stop providing the means to record the proper exposure.
  • Fully Digital Controls enable super-fast 1/4000-sec shutter speed, auto bracketing, exposure data imprinting, and customizable mode, while the super-fast 1/4000-sec shutter speed expands creative potential.
  • The vertical-travel metal focal plane shutter provides a maximum shutter speed of 1/4000 second. This permits the photographer to employ techniques, from soft-focus portraits using wide apertures to razor-sharp images of even the fastest-moving subjects.
  • The high-speed shutter also allows flash synchronization at a fast 1/125 sec., which enables effective application of daylight synchronization and other flash techniques. When the film magazine is removed, a protective mechanism automatically opens the shutter, and closes it again when the magazine is replaced, to prevent accidental damages.
  • Useful Features: Electronic Dial Lock
  • Auto bracketing for one-touch exposure adjustment
  • Exposure data imprinting records vital information
  • Custom Function settings
  • Digital multiple exposure activation
  • Self-timer
  • Film Magazines: AF 120/220 roll film magazine
  • AF Polaroid film back
  • Linking the body to digital backs is the innovative Mamiya Serial Communication (MSC) protocol, which provides true, digital-ready, integrated technology that bridges the gap between conventional and digital photography and eliminates camera-to-back cable connections which can be hazardous and inconvenient.
  • TTL flash control, 1/125-sec sync speed for versatile flash photography
    Sophisticated TTL/OTF Flash Control
  • Flash Compensation
  • Flash status viewfinder display
  • Smart Desig: Retractable Shutter to Prevent Damage
  • Simplified mechanism enables a compact, lightweight configuration
  • Natural balance and feel
  • Designed for error free, trouble-free operation
  • The first medium-format camera with a magnesium alloy viewfinder cover
  • Die-cast aluminum alloy body and film magazine
  • Other Features; Preview depth of field.
  • Mirror Up
  • Diopter adjusts viewfinder to vision
  • Eyepiece Shutter
  • Remote Release Contact
  • Interchangeable Focusing Screens
  • Powered by AA-size Batteries