Hi I have both cameras and have used them extensively. Firstly, if you're on a budget, get a Z1p. It's a great camera, and the Hyper Manual mode is fantastic. Auto focus isn't as bad as you may think, and it is very reliable.
With regards to the MZ-S, I favour it over my Z1p. At first I didn't like the MZ-S. However, compared to the Z1p, the MZ-S has a much better autofocus system (6 point too), build quality is infinitely better (metal), it's mirror slap is VERY soft (the Z1p can cause vibrations even at 1/125 on a tripod), the BG-10 grip is excellent (AA batteries), fantastic flash system (with the 360FGZ), and simplier interface. Many have knocked the MZ-S for having "less" than the Z1p, but this isn't the case. OK, granted the motor drive is slow (2.5 FPS). However a 1/2 stop difference in top shutter speed (1/6000 vs 1/8000) is trivial. And I have NEVER used anything faster than 1/1500. Since I mostly shoot (with a camera) wildlife, I rarely go above 1/500. How many have ever used 1/8000 of a second?. The flash system is a HUGE improvement in the MZ-S. While Pentax lists the top synch speed of 1/180, with the AF360FGZ you can synch up to 1/6000. Plus it has 6-segment flash metering with pre-flash (Z1p is only regular TTL), so you're better off with the MZ-S (I find the MZ-s much more accurate). Anyway, the bottom line is if you don't want to spend a lot and have a great camera, the Z1p is a great choice. Heck with the money you save with the Z1p you can buy more film!!!! However, if you want a LIGHT, small, durable, metal bodied, pro camera with some improved features, and don't mind spending twice as much, get an MZ-S. This may help you or confuse you... >From: "Matthew Chan" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> >Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] >To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> >Subject: MZ-S or Z-1p >Date: Wed, 29 May 2002 01:09:48 +0800 > >I am comparing the two cameras. I may buy a MZ-S or get a second hand >Z-1p. >So any one can give comments on this two camera in regards of theirs >features. > >Thanks >Best regards, >Matthew >- >This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, >go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to >visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org . _________________________________________________________________ Chat with friends online, try MSN Messenger: http://messenger.msn.com - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
