James,
I would recommend getting an M7 if your Leica rangefinder will be kept long term. I have both an M6TTL and an M7, and will usually prefer to use the M7 for most situations, and the M6 as a back up. The later versions of the M7 have the updated MP viewfinder which does make it easier to focus, and glare on the focusing patch is not as evident with high contrast motifs. Furthermore, having AE with the M7 makes taking quick candids a joy to handle. DX coding is another feature that is extremely useful on the M7. In the heat of the battle so to speak, the DX coding feature ensures that you won't forget to adjust the ASA setting. I find that the electronic shutter of the M7 is a little quieter than the M6. With the M7, I use a Metz 54 MZ-4 flash and with the M7, I will usually use the rear curtain sync which is a feature the M6 doesn't have.
As far as buying a used body, one has to be extremely careful since there is no way to know the history of the body. Buying new is always preferred, but a new M7 is a sizable investment. Perhaps you could inquire with a Leica dealer to see if they might have a factory demo M7 with warranty available.
If I was in the market for an M body, based on my experience with using both, I would prefer to go with an M7 at all costs over an M6.
Regards,
Dale
I would recommend getting an M7 if your Leica rangefinder will be kept long term. I have both an M6TTL and an M7, and will usually prefer to use the M7 for most situations, and the M6 as a back up. The later versions of the M7 have the updated MP viewfinder which does make it easier to focus, and glare on the focusing patch is not as evident with high contrast motifs. Furthermore, having AE with the M7 makes taking quick candids a joy to handle. DX coding is another feature that is extremely useful on the M7. In the heat of the battle so to speak, the DX coding feature ensures that you won't forget to adjust the ASA setting. I find that the electronic shutter of the M7 is a little quieter than the M6. With the M7, I use a Metz 54 MZ-4 flash and with the M7, I will usually use the rear curtain sync which is a feature the M6 doesn't have.
As far as buying a used body, one has to be extremely careful since there is no way to know the history of the body. Buying new is always preferred, but a new M7 is a sizable investment. Perhaps you could inquire with a Leica dealer to see if they might have a factory demo M7 with warranty available.
If I was in the market for an M body, based on my experience with using both, I would prefer to go with an M7 at all costs over an M6.
Regards,
Dale