Which stereo camera is the best?

[P3D Dr. George A. Themelis <DrT-3d@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Dear friends,

I have a dilemma and I would like some good input for expert users
of 50s stereo cameras.  As you know, my main stereo camera is a
Stereo Realist 2.8 w/David White lenses, modified for 7p.  I have
taken some wonderful pictures with this camera and will continue
to use it, especially now that it is converted to 7p.  

However, in addition to this 7p camera I would like to have a 
regular 5p camera as a backup and for those pictures that do not
call for 7p (which results in considerable film savings).

Currently, I am evaluating 3 cameras.  They are all in excellent
condition and have been checked, and are fine with sharp focusing 
at infinity, both lenses.  These cameras are:

1. Kodak Stereo:  Inexpensive and easy to use.  Has some convenient
   features and lacks others.  Not very realiable mechanically but
   lightweight and user-friendly.  Favorite camera for many serious
   stereo photographers.
2. Realist Ilex Paragon (earlier Realist, SN about 4,000).  Also 
   inexpensive and possibly not as reliable as later model 3.5s.  
   Some people claim that it is better than a regular 3.5.  Is that
   true?
3. Realist 2.8 Ektar.  It is claimed that the Ektars are the best 
   lenses ever put on a Realist camera, even better than the Custom's 
   rare earth lenses.  Just looking at these lenses, it is easy to be 
   convinced that these large, clear and wondefully coated lenses
   take better pictures.  But is this true, and is the camera worth 
   the price premium?

I currently own all 3 cameras.  I have cleaned them and have made 
sure that the focus is right on the money in all of them.  They are 
now loaded with the same film and I use them to take similar pictures.  
Soon I will have my own opinion but I believe it will take some time 
to see any differences.  If I decide to keep one of them, I'll sell 
the rest.  Eric Goldstein has expressed very favorable opinions for 
all three cameras, but that does not help me decide :-). 

Any input from owners of these cameras, or people who have tried 2 or 
all 3 of them, will be greatly appreciated.

Thank you!  -- George Themelis


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