Minolta Maxxum 9000 / Alpha 9000
Introduced in 1985, the Maxxum 9000 (otherwise known as the Alpha 9000) was the first professional auto-focus 35mm SLR made by Minolta. It was actually finished before the Maxxum 7000, but its launch was delayed in order to allow the 7000 to go first. Otherwise, the 9000 would also hold the distinction of being the world's first auto-focus capable SLR.
The Maxxum 9000 was aimed at the professional market and features a variety of high-end capabilities. It is capable of both center weighted and spot metering that can compensate for highlights and shadows. It also has off-the-film flash metering, as well as metered fill-flash. The Maxxum 9000 has four exposure modes: program, shutter priority, aperture priority, and full manual. It boasts a shutter speed range from 30 seconds up to 1/4000 that is stepless in the automatic exposure modes. It has a flash sync of 1/250th.
Several components on the 9000 interchangealbe, allowing a high degree of customization to the camera. The user can change focusing screens and film backs. Minolta even made a CCD film back that was capable of recording a 0.38 megapixel digital file. The accessory motor drive is capable of a respectable 5 FPS.
The camera uses the Minolta A-mount auto-focus lenses, a line of lenses that continued into the digital market.
za/sd
Blue Moon Camera and Machine llc
- sales@bluemooncamera.com
- (503) 978-0333
- (503) 978-0370
-
8417 North Lombard Street
Portland, OR 97203
All rights reserved ©2025, Blue Moon Camera and Machine llc