X-700The X-700 Minolta fully-programmed automatic exposure 35mm SLR.
It's a simple-to-operate automatic exposure camera, selecting both aperture and shutter speed in programmed automatic exposure mode. So all the user has to do is focus-and-shoot. The X-700 also offers aperture-priority automatic exposure mode and a full-metered manual exposure control, in addition to many other features that make photography more fun and enjoyable than ever before.
The X-700, along with its extensive Minolta Program System components and SLR lenses and accessories, combines system sophistication with simple operation. It may very well be destined to be the 35mm single-lens-reflex camera you've always dreamed of owning.
Minolta's exclusive Action-Weighted Program
Conventional program SLR's adjust both shutter speed and aperture equally as light changes... oftentimes with the result that the shutter speed falls below hand holding speed. The X-700's faster-speed priority program maintains the highest possible shutter speed as light dims, to permit hand-held operation and to minimize subject or camera blur.
Fully-Programmed Autoflash Operation
Utilizing Minolta Direct Autoflash Metering and the PX-series Auto Electroflashes, the X-700 gives the user automatic mastery of all modes of flash photography.
There are absolutely no manual settings to be made in P mode. And in A mode, flash emission is precisely adjusted to the selected aperture for extremely accurate depth-of-field control.
Aperture-Priority Automatic Exposure plus Full-Metered Manual Exposure control
The X-700 also features both aperture-priority automatic exposure control for precise depth-of-field control and full-metered manual exposure control for virtually unlimited user-selected combinations of shutter speeds and apertures.
World's First Multi-Function Back
The optional Multi-Function Back features a tremendously accurate quartz clock and auto calendar for both six-data imprinting and unmanned camera control capability, in addition to combining with other Minolta Program System accessories for extended photographic uses.
Motor Drive 1
With the optional Motor Drive 1, the X-700 can achieve high-speed action sequences up to 3.5 frames per second in addition to high speed flash photography.
Wireless Controller IR-l Set
Another exciting option is the Wireless Controller IR-l Set which permits cordless remote camera and accessory control by means of infrared signal transmission, with the operator up to 200 feet (60 meters) away.
Double Action Grip
Built-in to the X-700's camera body is a new double action grip that helps steady the camera either in vertical or horizontal operation. Sleek and smoothly styled, these integral front and rear grips increase camera stability for better photographic results.
You can't find much more difficult shooting conditions than white-water board sailing. Bright, outdoor light. Dark, strong shadows. Water reflection. High-speed action. What aperture to use? What shutter speed? The X-700's programmed automatic exposure mode automatically solves these problems for you by selecting the optimum combination of aperture and shutter speed in response to subject brightness.
All you have to do is focus-and-shoot. Set the camera's mode selector to the green P position. Set your new MD lens to its green minimum aperture, and lock it. Focus and shoot! Easy, isn't it?
The X-700's P mode combines the essence of simplicity with the utmost in sophistication. The action-weighted program minimizes blur and allows hand holding even in low light situations. The photographer concentrates solely upon the creative moment, with no worry as to the exposure selection. In any lighting conditions, changing or not. In any situation, high-speed or not... it's perfect for novice photographers as well as professionals!
A green P reminds you that you're in P mode and blinks if you've not set your MD lens at its minimum aperture The set aperture (not the taking aperture) is displayed, along with the camera's selected shutter speed.
The X-700's A mode: Aperture-priority automation for professional-quality portrait, landscape, and close-up photography.
The X-700's aperture-priority automatic exposure mode is a tremendous creativity-enhancer. Most photographers capture their most cherished moments in this mode: portraits, landscapes, close-ups.
A mode also lets you best utilize mirror lenses, close-up equipment and other accessories for a spectrum of photography that shutter-speed priority cameras cannot offer.
Simply turn the X-700's shutter dial to A. Set your preferred lens aperture. And click away! The X-700 automatically sets the correct shutter speed for optimum exposure results.
Incidentally, this A mode works equally well in flash operation, too. Particularly in close-up situations where extremely tight control over a full aperture range is vital to your creative efforts.
The X-700's M mode: Full-metered manual exposure control to commit any special effects you wish to film.
In either automatic exposure mode, the X-700 evenly balances exposure values for optimum exposure
results. The X-700's manual exposure mode, however, allows you, the photographer, to completely control your exposure. Releasing the camera's mode selector from either P mode or A mode allows you to select the shutter speed you desire. Now select your aperture. Look through the viewfinder and you'll see a metered shutter-speed indication which you may, or may not, use. The creative choice is all yours!
The X-700's full-information viewfinder: your instantaneous "adviser" in all modes of shooting, to guide you under all conditions.
The viewfinder of the X-700 is like having your very own photographic expert with you at all times, advising you on the correct exposure, helping you focus faster and more accurately, reminding you of pertinent information to enhance your creative efforts.
There's no need to look elsewhere: it's all there, right before your eyes, helping you concentrate on the more aesthetic values of what you are about to capture on film.
P mode viewfinder indicators:
A green P to remind you you're in P mode. The P blinks if your MD lens is not set at its minimum aperture or if you're using any lens other than an MD lens.
The selected shutter speed (red bar). If two shutter speeds are simultaneously indicated, the selected stepless shutter speed falls between the two indicated parameters.
An over-range warning triangle (red). Blinks to warn you that the correct shutter speed exceeds 1/1000sec.
An under-range warning triangle (red). Blinks to warn you that the correct shutter speed falls below 1 sec.
A +/-2EV exposure adjustment indicator. The asterisk beside the +/- indicator blinks to remind you that you've set in an exposure adjustment.
Beneath the viewfinder focusing screen you'll see your set minimum aperture.
A mode viewfinder indicators:A red "A" reminds you you're in A mode.
All other indicators are similar to the P mode's.
M mode viewfinder indicators:A red M reminds you you're in M mode. Indicated shutter speed is for reference only. You have already set your preferred shutter speed and the indication in the viewfinder shows you what your pre-selected aperture setting's matching shutter speed should be for optimum exposure.
LED indications Placing your forefinger on the Touch Switch instantaneously starts metering and LED readouts light up in the viewfinder. These readouts continue for 15 seconds.
Acute-Matte focusing screen This Minolta advancement in focusing technology is comprised of some 2,500,000 microscopic cells, each of which is a conical micro-lens shaped for better light dispersion and, consequently, a 50% brighter, clearer, higher-contrast image that is easier-and faster-to-focus.
Bright reflecting mirror Minolta technology has improved the X-700's mirror reflection through use of a special multi-layered coating that increases viewfinder brightness by 11% over conventional types.
Optional focusing screensThe X-700's standard Acute-Matte focusing screen can be replaced by any of eight optional Acute-Matte screens at an authorized Minolta service facility. These screens include: a horizontal split for general photography or for use with f12.8 or larger maximum aperture lenses. A diagonal split for general photography. A microprism spot for general photography. A matte field with or without a grid for general, close-up and telephoto photography. Horizontal and vertical measuring scales for general, macro, micro and astrophotography. Or a clear spot with etched double hairlines for macro, micro and astrophotography.
The PX-series Auto Electroflashes' operations vary according to the mode selected for the X-700. In P mode, the aperture is automatically set; there are no tedious calculations or settings to be made - ideal for beginners, as there is no chance for error. In A mode, the X-700's and flash's linked, sophisticated light control system adjusts flash emission to the aperture you have selected; this mode is perfect for special depth-of-field effects and close-ups. And in M mode, you can control exposure effects by choosing the aperture value you wish according to the guide number and camera-to-subject distance data available.
Viewfinder indicators:
The green P indicates you are in P mode. A pulsating red LED bar next to the 1/60 indication indicates flash-ready. This is a slow-speed (2Hz) blink. The flashing red LED blinks at a higher rate (8Hz) after shutter release to indicate proper exposure. Aperture selection appears below the viewfinder
Minolta Direct Autoflash Metering System
The X-700's Direct Autoflash Metering System controls flash duration of the PX-series Auto Electroflashes according to measured light reflected from the film surface during and exposure. This off-the-film metering used in P and A modes assures correct exposure within applicable ranges for normal flash pictures, bounce flash, close-ups, and off-camera techniques.
Sequential autoflash shooting and unmanned autoflash operation with Auto Electroflash 360PX and 280PX
Attach the Motor Drive 1 or Auto Winder G and you'll get action flash sequences up to 2 frames per second in A mode or M mode. Combine the Power Grip 2 and Motor Drive 1, and you'll be able to shoot at even higher speeds: up to 3.5fps. Add the Multi-Function Back and you can achieve unmanned interval autoflash operation, even utilizing extension tubes and bellows for close-ups.
Precise and creative flash control for close-up and photomacrography with Auto Electroflash Macro 80PX Set
The Auto Electroflash Macro 80PX Set is designed for shadow-free close-ups and photomacrography with X-700's Minolta Direct Autoflash Metering System. It has four individually selectable flashtubes for creative lighting control and focus lamp illumination for precise focusing.
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| Audible Warning: An electronic "audible warning" to war you that the shutter speed is 1/30 sec. or slower or of self timer operation. It can easily be canceled.
Audible Visible Self -timer: An electronically-controlled, 10-second self-timer is released with indication of a three-step blinking LED, accompanied by a cancelable audible signal. |
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| Safe Load Signal: tells you that your film is properly loaded and advancing smoothly.
Memo Holder: With a handy ISO/DIN-ASA conversion table inside, this memo holder lets you display the film box end for reference. |
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| Bayonet Mount: Allows use of any Minolta SLR lens ever made. An improved stainless steel material has been lubricant-impregnated to produce an extremely accurate and smooth lens-to-camera fit.
Double Action Grip: Comfortable integral front and back grips aid in holding the X-700 easily and steadily. |
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| Remote Control Socket: Used for electronic remote cord and Wireless Controller in-1 Set operation of the X-700.
Oversized, Quick Return Mirror: The X-700's extra large quick return mirror prevents image cutoff, even when using telephoto lenses. |
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| Easy Film Loading: A wider film spool slit and claw makes film loading faster and more trouble-free.
Touch Switch: Minolta's exclusive Touch Switch helps conserve battery power. The moment finger contact is made metering and LED readouts and continue to function for 15 seconds. |
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| Depth-of-Field Preview Button: Stops down the lens so you can check the depth of field through the X-700's viewfinder.
Main Switch: Handy on-off switch conserves battery power and prevents accidental tripping of the shutter. An alternate mode activates an audible warning. |
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| +/-2EV Exposure Adjustment: You can select up to +/-2EV exposure adjustment to compensate for unusual lighting conditions. An exposure-adjustment indication in the viewfinder will remind you of your selection.
Mode/Shutter Speed Selector: The X-700's mode/shutter speed selector lets you easily set the mode you wish to photograph in, and gives you a wide range of shutter speeds in Manual Exposure control to select from. |
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| AE Lock: A feature not found in most other SLR's, the X-700's AE Lock helps overcome specific exposure metering difficulties such as a subject in shade with strong backlighting.
Eyepiece Cap: For remote or self-timer operations, this handy accessory slips over the eyepiece to prevent extraneous light from entering and possibly altering metering values. |
Exposure-control modes: Fully programmed ("P"). Aperture-Priority automatic ("A"). and metered Manual ("M")
Lens mount: Minolta SLR bayonet of lubricant-impregnated stainless steel (540 rotating angle); (standard lenses: MD 50mm f/1.2, f/l.4 or f/1.7
Exposure control and functions: Low-voltage, low-current computer circuit (incorporating quartz crystal for sequential control to 1/30.000 sec accuracy. large-scale ICs, samarium-cobalt impulse-release magnets, and linear-resistance inputs) varies both aperture and shutter speed steplessly according to special 'faster-speed' program in P mode. or varies shutter speed steplessly according to aperture set in A mode; auto-exposure range: EV 1 to EV 18 at ISO 100 with f/1.4 lens; AE-lock device holds meter reading for exposure at that value regardless of subject-brightness changes
Shutter: Horizontal-traverse focal-plane type: electronically controlled stepless speeds 1/1000 to 4 sec set automatically with endlessly rotatable selector dial locked at "P" or "A" setting or fixed speeds 1 to 1/1000 sec. Or 'B' (bulb) set manually at detented dial indications; electromagnetic shutter release locks when voltage is too low
Metering: TTL center-weighted averaging type, by silicon photocell mounted at rear of pentaprism for available light; by another SPC mounted with optic inside of mirror compartment for Direct Autoflash Metering to control dedicated strobe duration
Film-speed range: ASA/ISO 25 to 1600
Exposure adjustment control: Up to +/-2EV continuous adjustment of P, A. or M exposure by dial that locks at zero position and each 1/2-EV setting
Mirror: Multi-coated oversize instant-return slide-up type
Viewfinder: Eye-level fixed pentaprism type; Fresnel-field focusing screen having artificially regular-patterned matte field plus central split-image focusing aid surrounded by microprism band, interchangeable with Type P1. P2. Pd, M. G. L, S, or H screens at authorized Minolta service facility: visible around frame: mode indication (P, A. or M). shutter-speed scale with LED setting indication, triangular over-/under-range LED indicators, flash-ready signal, FDC signal, mis-set lens warning in P mode. f-number set with MD or MC lenses, and exposure-adjustment engaged indication: display and metering activated by normal finger contact or slight pressing of operating button and continue for 15 sec.
Flash sync: PC terminal and hot shoe for X sync, additional springloaded contacts on hot shoe for camera/strobe control and finder indication in programmed/automatic operation
Film advance: Motorized: through built-in coupler key with accessory Motor Drive 1 or Auto Winder G, Manual: By lever with single 130 degree stroke after 30 degree unengaged movement
Power: Two 1 5v alkaline-manganese or 1 55v silver-oxide cells contained in camera base power both programmed/auto exposure control and manual operation
Self-timer: Electronic for l0-sec delay, with operation indicated by camera-front LED plus simultaneous audible indication.
Other: Audible 4Hz piezoelectric warning when finder speed indication is 1/30 sec or slower; integral front handgrip, detachable back with integral handgrip. memo holder, and ISO/ASA-DIN conversion table.
Size and weight: 2 x 3 1/2 x 5' 3/8in. (51.5 x 89 x 137 mm). 17 13/16 oz (505gms) without lens and power cell
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