Even though the *istD is a very nice camera, I have recently considered purchasing the MZ-S.I just ordered one...
I really like all of its feature, especially the way it handles and that the body is made of a magnesium alloy.... for exactly the same reasons. I especially like the user interface an the data imprinting function.
That being said, I think/hope that Pentax updates it with at least the following improvements:The AF selector of the MZ-S is not bad, its just that everybody seems to use it the wrong way. It is easy to use if you don't take he camera from your eye. With the left hand holding the camera from below with the left thumb being on the left of the lens mount, use the left index finger to push the AF selector button, and use the right thumb and/or index finger to turn the wheel to select the AF sensor.
* updated AF system (SAFOX VIII or better) w/improved AF selector
It seems to me that SAFOX VII is not at all worse than SAFOX VIII. OK, there is no cross sensor, but if you KNOW that the selected AF sensor is a horizontal or vertical one, you know what it can and will do, thus that you can act and select accordingly. With SAFOX VIII. you never know what the sensor is concentrating on: horizontal or vertical structures. Also, I am under the impression that the linear sensors of SAFOX VII are more precise and work better in low light.
....these of course would be nice* improved weather sealing (closer to the LX) * magnesium alloy camera back (not plastic)
these only could be available by making the body larger, and 1/8000 shutter speed I never need.* 1/3 stop exposure adjustment * 1/8000 sec top shutter speed * 1/250 sync speed
* at least 3+ fps (not as important as the others above).... not at all important to me....
I know this has been discussed in the past, but what are the chances Pentax will put out a MZ-Sn, when it appears that all the rave is "digital"...I would say that the chances are nil. There is a much bigger chance that Penbax will discontinue more analogue SLRs and introduce more DSLRs. Already, the MZ3 is no longer made. Who knows what model will be next? The MZ-S never was a high volume camera. I doubt that Pentax is earning money with it. They probably only introduced it to have a top model at all, in order not to loose all ambitious Pentax photographers. Now the *ist D took over this function. The MZ-S already seems like a leftover from the past. Grab one while it is still available....
Arnold
