Spotting "Practical Photography" (British publication) on the
shelf of my local newsagent yesterday, I purchased a copy.
The F100 is tested by Daniel Lezano. Here's a non-comprehensive
summary of key points made. Although not pitted against the
EOS 3, the author did compare them throughout the article.
Pros:
(a) Best built SLR at its price point (UK Stg 1,000).
Says its magnesium alloy body -feels- much more robust
than the EOS 3 eventhough the blass-fibre reinforced
polycarbonate resin of the EOS 3 may be every bit as
strong. He also likes the rubber surfaces.
(b) Designed to handle extremes of temperature. Has O rings
to prevent moisture and dust from entering delicate areas.
(c) Floating mechanism in the chasses; rubber-armoured motors;
reduced vibration mirror: these all impress from a
construction viewpoint.
(d) General handling is excellent; comfortable to hold;
enjoyable to use.
(e) Large, bright, clear viewfinder, covering 96%.
(f) Inter-changeable focusing screens.
(g) Highly sophisticated flash system.
(h) Distinct advantage over EOS 3 autofocus system when using
small-max-aperture lenses. The F100 is more sensitive
than the EOS 3.
(i) Camera worked flawlessly during heavy snow and rain and
suffered no ill effects from freezing weather.
(j) Film transport and shutter systems are quiet.
(k) Highly responsive AF system.
Cons:
(a) Doesn't like control layout; will take time to master.
(b) Found defects in matrix metering system: while perfect
for most situations, performed badly (underexposure by more
than one stop) with backlit subjects. Also, some
general scenes were underexposed by around 1/3 stop.
(c) Five point AF not as sophisticated as 45 point system in
EOS 3.
(d) EOS 3 is easier to use.
(e) EOS 3 had faultless metering, so F100 fell down against it.
Final sentence in article: "If you want the best, check out the
Canon [EOS 3]".
Bye,
Mike
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
www.NetworX.ie
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