Digital SLRs

Konica Minolta Dynax 7D

Looks expensive compared to other 6MP DSLRs

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Last reviewed: January 1st 2005

The LCD display is interesting because it's used for displaying all camera set-up and shooting information

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Konica Minolta has taken a long time to bring a digital SLR to the market, giving Canon, Nikon and Pentax a substantial head start. How many Minolta owners have defected to these brands in the meantime?

But the Dynax 7D is here at last, and although it offers a very ordinary DSLR resolution of 6-megapixels, it introduces Konica Minolta's exclusive anti-shake technology to the world of SLRs.

This system's previously been seen in the company's A-1, A-2 and A-200 compact models. It's designed to counter camera shake, which starts to affect image quality with longer focal length lenses and longer shutter speeds of 1/30sec or slower.

Like other image stabilisation systems, this can only reduce camera shake at 'marginal' shutter speeds, and can't replace a tripod. Konica Minolta claims you should be able to shoot at shutter speeds 2-3 settings slower than normal, and our tests indicate this is probably about right. Other key features with the Dynax 7D include a large, 2.5-inch LCD display and full compatibility with the Konica Minolta range of AF lenses.

The LCD display is interesting because it's used for displaying all camera set-up and shooting information. This camera doesn't have a secondary mono LCD on the top plate. The Dynax's LCD is backlit, which can be a distraction when shooting, but the camera switches the backlight off the moment you put the camera to your eye, which solves that particular problem.

No lens

One problem that may not be solved quite so easily is the lack of any 'kit' lens to go with this camera. The nearest equivalent at the moment is the 17-35mm lens supplied with our test unit. This costs around £400 on its own, though you might be able to save a little cash by finding a retailer (Jessops, for example) selling this lens and camera in combination.

Alternatively, you could invest in an inexpensive third-party 'digital' zoom like Sigma's £100 18-50mm.

This is a big, meaty camera, with a good grip. So while it's a little bulkier than some of its rivals, it'll suit those people who prefer something you can grab hold of.