E-PL1 and PT-EP01 Special

[epointer]

Thanks for the tips.

 

[slowhands]

Oops. This was probably an error by Adorama. They now sell the case for $399, the camera for $449 and the combo for $700. I did get a combo at the low price of $399, so they did honor the deal until someone woke up.

I had wanted a spare housing, because changing the port for a fisheye on the dive boat seemed risky. The port lock on this housing was not designed for easy swapping, as it requires a cross head screwdriver and maybe a strap wrench, and careful cleanliness and lubrication.

If you are shopping today, the E-PL5 with Oly housing is still a better choice. It costs more, sure (housing $800, camera $600). You get a much better camera and a somewhate better type II lens. Same clumsy port locking system though. I love my E-PL1, but 3 years is a long time in the camera business.

 

[antattack]

I saw this thread and acted. As a result, I now own the E-PL1 and housing for $399. Its a big step up from my SeaLife Mini II, so thanks for the tip!

Now I have a new dilemma. I have one of the SeaLife strobes. What I've learned in my short career as an underwater photographer is that in the murky waters of Monterey Bay CA, Two strobes and a focus light are required.

So, I have an Intova Super Nova, and that has a ball attachment for use as a focus light. Which leaves me with my dilemma.

Do I buy a matching SeaLife strobe and call my new rig complete OR do I wait until I can save up two grand to buy two really good strobes?

Thanks for the tip. Adorama is a wonderful vendor. I've purchased camera gear for my wife from them on many occasions. If this was a mistaken offer, they did not hesitate to fulfill the order. If it was a clearance offer, I'm still quite pleased.

 

[randini]

I gotta say I was kinda disappointed when I saw this, but only because I didn't see it until about two weeks after it ended.

But it's back!!! I just ordered mine!

Link: Olympus PEN E-PL1 Digital 14-42mm Camera Bundle w/PT-EP01 Underwater Housing 262856 S

 

[buton]

This is still a great deal...

 

[ggibson]

I was saving up for an E-M5, but I'm thoroughly tempted to make this my underwater option...

 

[randini]

It arrived yesterday at my brother's place in Atlanta (ordered on the 3rd). Turns out the 14-42 is the newer 14-42 II R

 

[ggibson]

Interesting, that's good and bad. The newer model focuses better with slightly better optics, but doesn't have as powerful macro.

I assume it didn't come with the zoom ring? Did you order that separately?

 

[randini]

Considering I'll also be using the cam to shoot my 9 week old daughter topside I'll take the faster focus over macro and deal with it.

I asked him, but I haven't heard back from my brother yet regarding the zoom ring. If it's not in there I will get one before having him send it all down to me. BTW that'd have to be the PPZR-EP02 ring for the 9-18 and not the PPZR-EP01 for the original 14-42, right?

 

[Lizard Leg]

Correct on the PPZR-EP02 being the right ring for the MKII lens - and no, it doesn't come with it.