P3D RBT-X4 report

[Ralph Johnston/Linda Sherman <copley@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

>
> Does anyone have a review on the X4 camera?



I got my RBT-X4 in July and have taken 2 rolls of slide film and 8 of
negative.  It is the "B" model with standard full frame format.  I like it a
lot and am satisfied with the selection.  It is 1) less expensive, 2) lighter
than the other models.  It also gives you full manual control, very useful in
low-light situations.  I am tired of trying to out-guess automatic cameras,
i.e. figure out what speed and aperture they would be using, and try to modify
that by some means.  I really like this camera.  I am able to see through both
viewfinders at the same time, although the center rangefinder circles are
slightly off for MY eye spacing.  You can only use one split rangefinder at a
time (a non-problem).  Note that my eye spacing is 67mm which is right in the
center of the distribution according to my optician.  Before I ordered the
camera, I was worried that the 75mm spacing would not allow use of both
viewfinders at the same time.  -not true as the viewfinder spacing actually
measures 73.7mm with my digital calipers.  The internal optics must redirect
the image a little so that I can see both.

There was a light leak around the window to view the film cartridge, but this
now has some black paper tape over it.  This caused a streak when the camera
was out of the case in full sun with 400 speed film.  There is a nice soft
case
that is captive to the neck strap.  You just slide it up the strap and place
the case at the back of the neck while shooting.  It is completely out of the
way and comfortable.

My camera is to be modified at the factory in early 99 so that it can take the
macro attachment.  This I bought as an option but it wasn't ready in time.  I
had already waited 12 months and was anxious to try out the camera.

I get both slides and prints from Dale Labs.Ý The prints are spray-mounted in
an album for viewing with a VueMagic over/under viewer.Ý The best slides I
remount in 28 or 33mm RBT mounts for viewing with a Berenzin SuperD viewer
opened up for 33mm opening. These will be put back in the original 2x2 mounts
for use with twin Ektagraphic projectors later on.  Then I can see the full
frame and run automatic slide shows.

Hope this helps -Ralph
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