Need Help Deciding on Light Meter

[jaydub]

It seems to me that Sekonic and Gossen both approached the challenge the same way, in the name of user friendliness. What's easier to do: 1) twist a knob or 2) remove one disk and replace it with another. The answer is obvious. If I were a product designer thinking about the end user, I would be tempted to go with the knob solution myself. But just think of the physics of the problem. Oblique lighting.....and a diffuser hiding in a well? Does that sound like a like the best solution possible? Maybe they've got it all figured out, they've done the physics, implemented the calculus, and I'm being too smart. I admit, this is speculation on my part as I've not done tests. That's why I'm posting this question, before I buy. Perhaps I should shut up.

[Leigh B]

I admit, this is speculation on my part as I've not done tests.

Stop and think about what you're saying.

You're asserting that two of the most experienced, highly-respected and proficient manufacturers of light meters
in the world made fundamental design errors in their products.

And your assertion is based on idle speculation.

Would you care to wager some money on who's right?

- Leigh

[jaydub]

Chrysler and Ford thought they had winners with the K-car and Pinto. User experience tells us something different.

[Leigh B]

Consumer demand for a car model has absolutely nothing to do with proper design. I had a K-car and it was a fine auto.

- Leigh

[jaydub]

He he he. If you believe that a K-Car was a fine auto, then, pretty much, end of discussion. At the same time, I do appreciate the dialogue. I guess I'll just have to buy and find out for myself. But honestly, what is your intuition, on a design basis. Let's assume your next door neighbor designed it, not Sekonic or Gossen. Does it, on the surface, seem like a logical design?

[Leigh B]

Yes it does. I had a long successful career as an engineer, with many significant products to my credit,
so I do have some experience in the field.

And you?

- Leigh

[jaydub]

Just a curious and questioning mind. You seem somewhat defensive. I'm just posing a question. Nothing to get too up in arms about. Why does the Sekonic/Gossen design seem OK to you, as compared to Minolta? That's what I'd like to know, given your design background.

[Poisson Du Jour]

Yes it does. I had a long successful career as an engineer, with many significant products to my credit,
so I do have some experience in the field.

And you?

- Leigh

Pipe down please.

[Leigh B]

I own and use both the Minolta and the Sekonic, with no noticeable difference between them.

And how do you compare them? Oh, I forgot, you don't own either.

Since this has degenerated to an obvious troll, I'm outa here.

- Leigh

[Poisson Du Jour]

I own and use both the Minolta and the Sekonic, with no noticeable difference between them.

And how do you compare them? Oh, I forgot, you don't own either.

Since this has degenerated to an obvious troll, I'm outa here.

- Leigh

Permit me to point out to you something you have overlooked (I am not speaking for the OP, just in case). I have been the owner of a L758D for 5 years and teacher others additive/subtractive/basal spot metering.
Of course, the metering experience goes back to at least 1991 when it was the primary means of determining exposure as the owner of a Horseman 45FA. I don't concern myself with design pecularities. Just making bloody good photographs.

And finally Leigh, do remember that the inflammatory tone in this thread was introduced, unnecessarily, by you.