Worth the money even with the quirks

Author's Rating:

Pros: Excellent feel, simple to use controls.

Cons: Eats batteries for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The Bottom Line: 
Great ergonomics and wonderful to use. You can't go wrong, especially if you already have other Maxxum equipment. But remember to bring an extra set of batteries.

Author's Review
I picked a Maxxum 7 last winter, as an extra body to go with a 600si I've owned for several years. I wanted a body that would take all the lenses that I currently owned and would be similar in operation to the 600si. For those who don't know the 600si, its user interface (knobs/dials) is the basis for the user interface of both the Maxxum 9 and the Maxxum 7.

I also purchased the VC-7 Vertical Grip. This gives you controls to handle vertical shots without having to contort your body. As well it allows you to use cheaper AA batteries instead of the more expensive CR123A batteries that the body allows for.

I don't want to rehash what others reviewers have said about the camera, but one must be emphasized, handling. I have used a variety of Canons, Pentaxes and Minoltas in my life. Nothing comes close to the handling (except Max 9 at twice the price) that this camera gives. The contoured grip fit nicely in your hand while the controls are placed where your fingers can reach them. This is especially true with the Vertical Grip, which enhances the handling even for horizontal shots.

While using it I have found several quirks that while minor in nature, may cause some individuals concern:

1) This camera eats batteries. I get almost double the rolls through my 600si than I get with the 7. And that's using identical AA batteries in the VC-7 and VC-600 vertical grips. Unless you like to spend money on the pricey CR123A batteries this camera takes, I would invest in the VC-7 vertical grip.

2) I shoot using my left eye, due to problems with my right eye. So while shooting horizontal shots, my nose hits the auto focus control. This is used to select which of 9 sensors to use for focusing. I have accidentally changed the sensor in the process of taking a picture. They do have a locking switch on the control however to avoid this problem. It took a few shots to realize the problem, so hopefully you won't hit it.

Overall, I've been extremely happy with this camera. It's been very reliable over the short period of time I've had it. The build quality is what I expect for a camera in its price range. Operation and handling are unbeatable. Try one out, you won't be unhappy.