Shel, I doubt you'll find many KM/KX samples out there with the optional horizontal split screen. I must be in a minority because I actually prefer the standard microprism.
Here's what I don't like about the Ricoh XR2 I own: * Top and bottom plates plastic; this is ok for the top, but the bottom flexes on tripod heads. * You MUST have the stupid advance lever out to shoot: this turns not just the meter but also power to the shutter on. This one gets me all the time. * There is a lever around the shutter button that is a battery test, not an off/on switch. I've "tested the batteries" way too many times. * It's louder than the KX. * The lever to unmount lenses has too much plastic; mine broke off and now a fingernail is needed to change lenses. * I don't think the build quality is anywhere near as good as a KX. Paul differs in this opinion (see below).
But here's the cool stuff: shutter blind, multiple exposure button, MLU and aperature stopdown when using timer, the viewfinder screen, higher synch speed, PC terminal, 1/90th battery-free speed.
Paul Stregevsky wrote:
I used to own a KX. If you like its simplicity, rugged construction, large
viewfinder, and wide film guides, please give the Ricoh XR-1 (manual
exposure; = Sears KSX?), XR-2 (manual/auto), or XR-2s (manual/auto; = Sears
KS Auto) a try. They are very similar to the KX in size, specs, build
quality, aperture readout, and features (or lack thereof); are much brighter
(in the center circle), and have a 45-degree split-image rangefinder that is
extremely useful when focusing a vertical shot.
The KX retains an edge in the flexibility of its mirror lockup (uncoupled from the spring-loaded timer); the quietness of its shutter (cloth vs. metal); and the fact that its shutter-speed needle moves automatically (but is more prone to fail).
Last night I took my first flash shot with my KS Auto. I can't believe how easy it is. My ProMaster dedicated Ricoh module synched up with no problem; a bright red LED illuminates in the viewfinder, and I can even leave the aperture dial on A (Auto).
