P3D RBT X3

["Lawrence A. Haines" <lhaines@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Dave Kessners recent message about the RBT X3 could have been written by
me.  I have been delighted with the camera and the results.  I have not
counted, but I am sure I have taken more than 75 rolls so far and it
performs remarkably well.  The Pentax lenses, 28- 80 zoom are very sharp
and identical in results.  I use the 28mm setting most frequently
because I love the wide view.  When I have the time, which is most of
the time, I use a lot of Fuji Velvia and a tripod and the results are
spectacular.  On a recent trip to Germany, Athens and Israel I used the
pro 100 to avoid having to take a tripod.

The camera is solidly built and very easy to use.  While it is heavier
and bigger than other stereo cameras I have used, it is not a problem to
carry or operate.  Frankly I do not now notice any real difference in
that regard.

The through-the lens metering is easy work with.  I usually set an f
stop and focus, and then through the lens, quickly adjust the shutter
speed for the correct exposure.   I appreciate the control this gives
me.  For most pictures it is not necessary to do a lot of refocussing.

For the first time in 50 years of taking stereo, I am satisfied with the
width of the picture.  As much as I loved my Realist, I was always
unhappy with the 5p width.

Having modern camera features makes it all the more fun to use.  And of
course it is much more versitile as a result.

I considered buying an S1 to make it even easier to shoot when it is not
convenient to take time to properly set up a shot.  I decide I like the
features I have with the X3.  After my recent trip with my family I am
sure I made the right decision.  On this trip I used the X3 principally
as a point and shoot camera and had no difficulty doing so.  I also feel
more comfortable having the 65mm base on my X3 rather than the reduced
base on the S1.

I would be delighted to correspond with other X3 users to compare
results.  This is truly one fine camera!

Larry Haines....




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