Titans of 6x7: Mamiya RZ67, Pentax 6x7 MLU, Bronica GS-1 compared

Hello, all! Please see my notes below on the removed annotations before asking questions/commenting on technical specs in the video. Thanks!

Here, I compare the Mamiya RZ67, Pentax 6x7 MLU, and Bronica GS-1 and try to illustrate size comparisons and functional differences between these modular SLR-style bodies. There are other cameras capable of shooting 6x7 and larger negatives, but these three pack the most versatility into single bodies, at least in my experience.

This isn’t meant to be a tutorial on each system, though I do discuss each camera’s major components and mention some of the pros and cons of each system both from a technical and subjective perspective.

NOTE: When I originally uploaded this video, YouTube allowed annotations. I used them to add text to the video where clarification was meaningful, additional thoughts might be helpful, and corrections needed to be included. Unfortunately, YT removed all of them. Please reference the "Annotations" section in the description below for some updated notes.

Finally, the audio came out low for some reason in the export, so crank the speakers :)

CHAPTER MARKERS

Intro/General Comments: 0:00
Size Measurements: 4:22
Weights: 7:16
Size/Weight Comments: 9:21
Sizes Compared to TLR and 35mm: 11:07
Pentax 6x7: 13:42
Bronica GS-1: 26:23
Mamiya RZ67: 36:15
Final Review/Additional Pros/Cons: 47:12

"ANNOTATIONS"

20:22 - It is NOT recommended that you take the metered prism off PRIOR to unmounting the lens as there is a chain-and-hook mechanism that tells the meter what aperture the lens is set to. Removing the prism BEFORE taking off the lens could result in the chain becoming damaged at worst or the meter might not deliver an accurate readout at best. The same is true for reassembly. I didn't experience any issues here, but again, this is technically not the order of procedure. To ensure proper functionality, bookend ANY prism removal/mounting by doing the same to the lens FIRST.

23:35 - see the above note

24:18 - P67 flash sync speed is 1/30, not 1/60 [I was considering getting a 645n and had been researching it the week I was filming this. I think the wires got crossed]

28:30 - I was told that other electronic shutter release cables with the same type of connector will also work

30:46 - There is an on/off lever on the Pentax prism to engage metering

40:10 - Half a STOP

47:54 - again, see notes above at 20:22

50:30 - see comment for 24:18 above

57:20 - see note above at 28:30

1:00:00 - should have listed the dark slide holder in the back is incredibly handy as well and a definite pro

[Der_Marc]

Best comparison so far on YT - still after 8 Years. Thank you Sir

[mackrun]

The most generous, sincere, and informative camera video I've seen yet. Thank you.

[GaltarDude]

This is the exact kind of video I have been looking for, and YouTube absolutely refused to let it pop up in the search results. I had to find it in a photography forum that was talking about 6x7 cameras. Thank you for making this

[luissalazar]

Maybe I was crazy 25 years ago. I did a weeding with my Rb67, yes I did used a tripod, and the prints were outstanding and I wish not had sold the negatives. Good memories 😎

[zeljkoplavsic]

This is what would i called review.Hour long and lots of useful information.Thank you for the good work

[GeorgeStar]

I haven't regretted going for the GS-1. Great bang for the buck, great lenses, handles well, light and small for 6x7. The rotary finder is excellent.

[TXLorenzo]

Love my Bronica GS-1. I can rotate the camera faster than a RZ67 user can turn the back, not a big deal for me. The RZ67 is a fantastic studio camera, trying to make it a run and gun street camera, not so much. Like you said, the ergos on the Bronica for a 6x7 are hard to beat and the glass is fantastic. The Bronica GS-1 with the grip and hot shoe is probably the easiest and most flexible 6x7 you can buy, IMHO.

[jeremoe]

Excellent video; very informative. Thanks.

[charm]

Thank you very much for making this video. Great overview of each system and I thought your portrayal of each ad very well done. Big help, thanks again!

[rickyjackson]

I've researched these systems for months, and purchased the RZ67II. This is the most informative and helpful review I've found yet. Thanks for your commitment to excellence, man.

[brianrae]

I love the Bronica cameras! great deals can be had because people don't know much about them and the lenses are fantastic. I shoot with a Bronica SQ-AI 6x6 which is pretty much from the same era as the GS-1 but shoots square (obviously). I'm really satisfied with this system and will get myself a GS-1 soon.

[kylemccourt]

I have a GS-1 from the 90's that I shot with commercially. What a great camera. I teach analog photography and spend my full time days in a darkroom, so I still shoot frequently with it. I am so very fortunate. Great video though!

[AnaloguePhoto]

Extremely useful comparison and look into these different and still similar systems. Thanks!

[czarnobyl]

The most informative video about these systems I've seen on YT so far. Thanks a lot!

[brianentz]

Excellent. Thanks so much for the systematic and comprehensive layout. Very informative. I'm looking at the Bronica system. I already have the ETRSi, but may want to add the GS-1. Very exciting. Well done.

[alejandroruiz]

Wow this is what I needed. Thank you for this upload.

[jakubrostkowski]

thanks fot this massive comparison. its probably the best bronica gs-1 review ever made and it helped me to decide to get the bronica :)

[Seapatico]

It is so entertaining to watch someone who truly knows what they're talking about.

[jamesjacocks]

Great review. Used the RB and Pentax and, as you said, they are very different but also very competent. I eventually ended up with a Rollei 66 and Linhof baby as my two system roll film cameras but each camera has its merits. What I really like is that you (like myself) are a working pro and therefore avoid useless prejudice and misunderstandings. We all gain when experience speaks.

[maketelma]

finally a fully fledged and practical presentation on bronica gs-1. thank you!