Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera with Anti Shake & 18-70mm Lens

by Minolta

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 11.7 x 7.5 x 6.6 inches ; 1.3 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 5 pounds
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• ASIN: B000A7JKTA
• Item model number: 2186-931
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (20 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #15,066 in Camera & Photo (See Top 100 in Camera & Photo)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: November 24, 2003

Product Description

Style: 5D with 18-70mm Lens

From the Manufacturer

The Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D is a high-performance interchangeable-lens digital SLR camera that inherits the revolutionary technology of its predecessor, the Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D. The camera features a body-integral CCD-shift Anti-Shake Technology that reduces blur caused by camera shake and supports all Maxxum AF lenses including the upcoming line of "DT" Lenses. Its 6.1-megapixel CCD captures enough detail for photo-quality 14-by-19-inch enlargements, and Konica Minolta's original image processing technology CxProcess III renders images in sharp detail. The camera's large, 2.5-inch color LCD monitor provides clear image viewing and data display, and it provides comprehensive image adjustment and control options for creative applications.

Built-in Anti-Shake Performance with All Maxxum System Lenses
The Maxxum 5D inherits the revolutionary technology of the Maxxum 7D--the world's first digital SLR with built-in Anti-Shake Technology and CCD Shift mechanism that is compatible with all Maxxum system lenses, including Konica Minolta's soon to be introduced line of Digital Technology "DT" lenses.

This award winning Anti-shake technology was selected as "European Photo Innovation of the Year 2004--2005" by EISA and provides the equivalent compensation effect with a shutter speed 2 to 3 stops slower.

Konica Minolta's Anti-Shake Technology makes it possible to reduce blur caused by camera shake, even when taking photos in dimly lit or twilight scenes, in natural light with a telephoto lens, as well as macro shots--without relying on a higher ISO setting or the aid of a flash or tripod. Anti-Shake responds quickly to both broad, slow-swaying motion of the camera body and the higher frequency shaking typical of camera shake caused by the photographer's hands.

The Anti-shake Technology can be switched on or off via a dedicated switch on the camera's back, and an Anti-Shake indicator is displayed on the viewfinder to keep the user informed when it's active.

Large CCD and Advanced Image Processing Technology
Integrating Konica Minolta's advanced technologies for photo-imaging excellence, the Maxxum 5D boasts an advanced LSI (image processing engine) and CxProcess III technology designed to provide stunning, natural-looking images.

As Konica Minolta's original image processing technology, CxProcess III optimizes four essential elements:

• Sharpness to take full advantage of the advanced optical technologies incorporated into the lens, presenting rich detail and realism without losing the quality of defocused images,
• Color reproduction to ensure that colors are rendered just as the human eye perceives them such as the subtle hues of natural blue, red, and skin tones,
• Gradation reproduction to render both clearness and deep presentation of gradations for both shadows and highlights, and
• Noise reduction to achieve a natural, impressive presentation of textured images.

Big, Bright 2.5-inch LCD with Navigation Display
Providing a better view for better photos, the Maxxum 5D incorporates a large, 2.5-inch LCD monitor that also works as a Navigation Display for camera settings. For even greater convenience, the display automatically switches from horizontal to vertical format when shooting in upright "portrait" format and lets users adjust the size of the on-screen text.

18-70mm Lens Included
Included with this kit version of the Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D is an 18-80mm lens, a compact 3.8x zoom lens that covers portrait to wide-view shots.

Comprehensive Image Adjustment and Control for Creative Photography

Digital Subject Program Selector
The Digital Subject Program Selector offers photographers five convenient options: portrait, sports, landscape, evening sunset view, and night view. Using the exposure mode dial, users simply select an appropriate option for their chosen scene, and the new Maxxum 5D automatically selects an appropriate exposure control, AF mode, and image-processing program. This function makes it quick and easy for anyone to take beautiful shots without the need for complicated settings.

Digital Effect Control
Adding a step of creative flexibility above the Digital Subject Program Selector, the Digital Effect Control lets users select an option among ten scene types, edit the parameters to their preferences, and then store the settings. Once a scene is selected, the Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D automatically sets appropriate image processing and image quality parameters. The exposure can then be manually selected so photographers can customize the contrast and sharpness saturation parameters within five steps from the default values to create the exact look they want.

Color Temperature Setting
In addition to AWB (auto white balance), PWB (preset white balance), custom white balance and color temperature settings, the Maxxum 5D offers added creative freedom with CC (Color Compensation) filter effects and Color Temperature fine-tuning in 100K increments. And, the camera's G9 (Green) to M9 (Magenta) range enables precise white balance adjustments for difficult lighting situations.

White-Balance Bracketing
Offering a new level of convenience and efficiency, this function lets photographers take a shot in differing color temperature settings with two options for their desired color temperature range. Based on the range, the Maxxum 5D records three frames per shutter sequence so users can manually select their favorite frame after the shot.

Zone Matching
An inherited feature of the acclaimed Konica Minolta Maxxum 7D, high-key and low-key tone capture extend CCD dynamic range and adjust tone curves to ensure precise reproduction of gradations and suppress noise in low-lighting shots. For example, using high-key mode to take wedding photos under direct sunlight, the fine details of a bride's white flowers, gown, and train can be reproduced accurately. In comparison, using low-key mode, the texture of a black dress in a dark room can be captured in detail without noise interference.

Easy and Intuitive Operation

High-performance, high-speed autofocus (AF)
The Maxxum 5D's high-performance AF system offers exceptional accuracy with a central, cross hair type, 9-point and 8 line AF sensor array that enables high-precision Predictive Focus Control as well as high-speed Subject Tracking for accurately focusing on moving subjects--an indispensable asset in action and sports photography.

Smooth, Responsive Continuous Shooting
The Maxxum 5D lets users capture up to 10 frames at a speed of approximately 3 frames per second (in Large/Fine JPEG mode). The camera's high recording speed enables users to continue shooting smoothly afterwards.

User-friendly dials and controls
The Maxxum 5D offers a simple, user-friendly configuration of dials and controls that even beginner SLR camera users will quickly feel familiar with. Added functions provide users who are moving up from more basic models with intuitive control; for example, the exposure mode dial also operates the five options of the Digital Subject Program Selector, and an independent lever ensures quick and easy white balance control. Electronic menus display adjustable parameters to meet the demands of advanced photographers, and a menu call button simplifies menu navigation. Enhancing ease of use further still, operating procedures that use common keys have been standardized across functions/screens so that users can navigate intuitively without having to refer the instructions.

High-performance viewfinder
A bright, clear optical viewfinder displays essential shooting parameters at the bottom of the frame, providing users with all the information they need to make creative adjustments quickly. It also incorporates a spherical acute matte focusing screen for accurate, bright critical focusing assessment. And, to accommodate the camera's smaller design, the Maxxum 5D employs a newly developed forward-bend finder optical system and roof-mirror type of pentaprism.

Durable, Compact Body and High-Quality Texture
The Maxxum 5D enhances camera reliability through its strong build quality. The body is constructed using sturdy glass fiber plastic, making it lighter and smaller than the Maxxum 7D by about 22% in volume, while a functional rubber grip based on new ergonomic design research provides an ideal hand fit.

Product Description

Maxxum 5D offers a user-friendly configuration of dials and controls that even beginner SLR camera users will quickly feel familiar with. Added functions provide users who are moving up from more basic models with intuitive control; the exposure mode dial also operates the five options of the Digital Subject Program Selector, and an independent lever ensures quick and easy white balance control. Electronic menus display adjustable parameters to meet the demands of advanced photographers, and a menu call button simplifies menu navigation. Enhances ease of use so users can navigate intuitively without having to refer the instructions. Digital Effect Control lets users select an option among ten scene types, edit the parameters to their preferences, and then store the settings. Once a scene is selected, the Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D automatically sets appropriate image processing and image quality parameters In addition to AWB (auto white balance), PWB (preset white balance), custom white balance and color temperature settings, the Maxxum 5D offers added creative freedom with CC (Color Compensation) filter effects and Color Temperature fine-tuning in 100K increments High-performance, high-speed autofocus (AF) Capture up to 30 frames at a speed of approximately 3 frames per second (in Fine JPEG mode) Image Recording Media - Type I and Type II CompactFlash Cards, Microdrive // SD Memory Card, MultiMediaCard require optional SD-CF1 Auto and manual exposure modes Built-in electronic-flash Video Output PAL / NTSC (selected on the camera) USB Uses and included Minolta NP400 rechargeable battery Dimensions (WxHxD) Approximately 5.1 x 3.6 x 2.6 in / Weighs - 20.8 ounce

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

85 of 89 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Extraordinary DSLR Camera For Wannabe Pros (or real ones), March 19, 2006

By 

Jonathan W. (Maryland USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera with Anti Shake & 18-70mm Lens (Electronics)

This DSLR is as good as it gets in the "Pro-sumer" (advanced amateur...wannabe pro) category. The Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D is as good (or better) than all the others in its class (e.g, Nikon and Canon) but comes with the anti-shake feature. It is also among the least expensive in its class. Get it while you still can.

This camera is for experienced digital photography enthusiasts, or technological savvy folks who are sure that's where they are headed. You can set it to "auto" and point-and-shoot the Maxxum 5D (also know as Dynax 5D internationally) and you'll get perfect shots nearly all the time. But if that's all you want to do, this camera is not for you.

By the way, it would be foolish to buy this (or any other DSLR) camera as a starter camera (even if you have the money). This camera is best for those with some experience who want to be creative and view digital photography as a serious hobby or maybe even a part-time source of income. Even though you can by-pass the hundreds of alternative settings on the 5D, it would be a shame to have them an not use them at least some time.

If you have any Minolta (aka Konica -Minolta)lens or other accessories from your old film-based SLR, then this camera is a no brainer, as they will all work in this camera too. By the way, there is no reason to buy the higher end Konica Minolta 7-D, unless you are a pro with lots of extra money. Its bigger, more expensive and has only one or two more features than this one.

The big negative issue that you'll note elswhere in these reviews is that the Konica-Minolta corporation will no longer be making cameras over the coming year...though the multi-billion dollar conglomerate will be around for many years to come to honor its warranties.

I recently bought this camera and a [...] rebate was in place. You might expect to see more of this as Konica Minolta gets out of the camera business. But even now, given this camera's fine reputation, they are getting harder to find.

It is likeley that Sony (who purchased rights to Konica-Minolta's camera technology) will make this camera the basis of their new Sony namplate DSLR model line in coming months since it is a winner. But even if they do not, many third parties make lens that fit this camera and you can purchase extra warranties from third parties as well.

If you buy this or any other DSLR, be sure to buy several 512MB or 1-2 GB compact flash cards to take advantage of the larger JPEG or "raw" image size it outputs (sometimes 5 shots at at a time, since like the pros, you can click once to get multiple action shots.) Tigerdirect always seems to have the best deals and rebates on flash cards. You will also need a flash card reader. Don't mess with connecting this or any camera directly to your PC.

Speaking of Mega-Pixels, anything over 6MP is overkill, unless you are going to make nothing but room size posters.

If you'e never owned an SLR or DSLR before, they are not pocket cameras (you should get one of those first by the way); So you will need to be comfortable lugging the DSLR camera and at least one extra lens (you will likely want a telephoto zoom - I recommend a 200 or 300mm zoom) around.

The most innovative DSLR case on the market is Lowepro's new slingshot 200 backpack. A must if you have more than one lens, or if you have any other paraphernalia. The slingshot recenly won several well-deserved ergonmic design awards. (I got a good deal on one via the Amazon marketplace).

I hope all this input helps, whether or not you buy the Konica-Minolta Maxxum 5D. Happy shooting!!

71 of 74 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Just got mine and I already love it!, October 6, 2005

By 

MestaySS - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera with Anti Shake & 18-70mm Lens (Electronics)

Well, for those of you interested in a DSLR, look no further! Not only does this camera have many of the features that the 7D (an outstanding camera) has (like the anti-shake, which works wonders in low light), but it is also much more affordable, and perfect for the photographer who wants to capture family photos, stunning vacation photos, or beautiful RAW format images to be blown up to over 11X14. I have been playing around with this camera for the past few weeks. I have a SanDisk Compact Flash Ultra II 1 gb card with it, and it will hold around 50 RAW format images or 160 FINE format images, which are perfect for capturing photos that you don't plan to blow up past 8X10.

Every single photograph I have taken so far has come out crisp and beautiful. The colors are exact and the warmth of the tones is perfect. The viewfinder on the camer could be a little more clear than it is, but that doesn't bother me.

This camera is the perfect size. It is neither too big nor too small. One thing that you should know before purchasing this camera is that when you are taking pictures, you do not look at the viewfinder screen, you must look through the viewfinder itself. The screen is only used for viewing pictures or changing settings. I am used to looking through an actual viewfinder with my other cameras, so this does not bother me, but may bother some.

This camera is a great purchase. And Amazon has a great deal for this camera and also a memory with purchase deal right now. For those of you trying to make a decision, get this one. You will be so excited to use this camera for basically any kind of photography that you can think of!

23 of 23 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An excellent DSLR, March 26, 2006

By 

J. McNamara - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Konica Minolta Maxxum 5D 6.1MP Digital SLR Camera with Anti Shake & 18-70mm Lens (Electronics)

I've been using my Maxxum 5D for about a month now and could not be more impressed. It has excellent ergonomics, great features (like antishake), and of course, produces high quality images. I moved up from a Canon point and shoot and I really appreciate these features: 1) no shutter lag, 2) long battery life, 3) great low-light performance, 4) interchangeable lenses, 5) RAW format support. I am shooting only RAW these days and using Photoshop Elements 3.0 to do the conversion to JPEG. While it is true the camera will usually do a good job, with RAW you have a good chance to fix that important picture where the exposure and white balance is just wrong.

On the lens front I'm using: 1) 18-70mm kit lens (wide but inexpensive), 2) Minolta AF 50mm f/1.7 lens - great for portaits and low-light 3) Tamron 28-200mm XR - a good all-around and compact lens.

I look forward to many years of usage from this camera. I certainly hope Sony picks up support for the Minolta system.

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