Used H3D/H3DII-39 or new H4D-31?

[Thomas73]

Hi all,

I am still thinking about 'jumping' into digital H (I have been using a H1 with film back so far). So, as I see sometimes on the used market H3D/H3DII-39 at "cheaper" prices than a new H4D-31, I wonder what would be the best choice :

- used body with more MP and wider sensor and upgrade possibilities in the future,

- new body with latest technology (especially "True Focus", faster AF?) but smaller sensor (and less MP but I do not care for my need) and no upgrade offer from Hasseblad (I guess...).

Thanks for sharing your opinions.

 

[CARLOS DUARTE]

H4d

Go h4d. The last aleaba works better. I triad both. An i have h4d 31

 

[ghoonk]

Hi all,

I am still thinking about 'jumping' into digital H (I have been using a H1 with film back so far). So, as I see sometimes on the used market H3D/H3DII-39 at "cheaper" prices than a new H4D-31, I wonder what would be the best choice :

- used body with more MP and wider sensor and upgrade possibilities in the future,

- new body with latest technology (especially "True Focus", faster AF?) but smaller sensor (and less MP but I do not care for my need) and no upgrade offer from Hasseblad (I guess...).

Thanks for sharing your opinions.

I tried the H3D and H4D, along with the Phase One 645DF. Between the H3D and H4D, True Focus was the key selling point, to the point that I switched from a Mamiya 645 AFD II (with a stable of lenses, accessories, etc) to a H4D-31 with an 80mm lens, and despite giving up a 1/1600 flash sync and 1/4000 shutter speed with the 645DF and 80mm Schneider lens.

Other H4D users I know swear by TF as well. I would, however, consider a H4D-40 over a 31 if you can afford it, simply for the benefit of the newer firmware features from the H4D-60 (digital spirit level, one click focus check, double resolution screen). Given that most people don't change medium format systems every year, it wouldn't be hard to rationalize an upgrade like that if you spread out the extra $$$ over a 36 month period

 

[fotografz]

I tried the H3D and H4D, along with the Phase One 645DF. Between the H3D and H4D, True Focus was the key selling point, to the point that I switched from a Mamiya 645 AFD II (with a stable of lenses, accessories, etc) to a H4D-31 with an 80mm lens, and despite giving up a 1/1600 flash sync and 1/4000 shutter speed with the 645DF and 80mm Schneider lens.

Other H4D users I know swear by TF as well. I would, however, consider a H4D-40 over a 31 if you can afford it, simply for the benefit of the newer firmware features from the H4D-60 (digital spirit level, one click focus check, double resolution screen). Given that most people don't change medium format systems every year, it wouldn't be hard to rationalize an upgrade like that if you spread out the extra $$$ over a 36 month period

+1.

-Marc

 

[DougDolde]

I bought an H4D-31 w/ 80mm lens from KEH for $5K less than the cost of a new one. It's in great condition with an EX+ KEH rating.

Sure I'd have rather bought an H4D-40 but for the price difference I can get a couple lenses.

It replaces my Contax 645 kit with Leaf Aptus 75S that I had for four years. So far the image quality seems just as good as the Aptus. The camera sure is a lot more advanced than the Contax and so many more accessories/lenses are available. Two less megapixels is negligible.

 

[Paul Claesson HUSA]

I bought an H4D-31 w/ 80mm lens from KEH for $5K less than the cost of a new one. It's in great condition with an EX+ KEH rating.

Sure I'd have rather bought an H4D-40 but for the price difference I can get a couple lenses.

It replaces my Contax 645 kit with Leaf Aptus 75S that I had for four years. So far the image quality seems just as good as the Aptus. The camera sure is a lot more advanced than the Contax and so many more accessories/lenses are available. Two less megapixels is negligible.

Doug,

Welcome to the Hasselblad family.

Paul Claesson
Technical Support Manager
Hasselblad Bron Inc.

 

[DJPixelMan]

I have just traded up my H3D11-31 for an H4D-40. I am really please with my new camera, especially the True Focus. However, it has to be said, I was still VERY happy with my H3D11-31.


Best regards

David