Mike, you have half a dozen threads running in the forum asking about every MF option by now. I know exactly what you're doing because I was on the same boat a while ago. You have set a budget and are trying to see what existing options for into it. This is how I started too, but unfortunately, that is a terrible way to get into MF.
One needs to actually think of MF as a system. That covers not just the body, but also the backs, the post production software, first and third party accessories, future upgrade paths, lens availability and so on. Do a check against your list of requirements and see which system crosses the most boxes . For example, if all you need is to shoot landscapes and are fully comfortable with Lightroom, there is no need to think further, just get the Pentax. If you need to do flash and ambient light work, your best options are phase and mamiya. If you need tilt shift for almost all lenses that you have, hassellblad would be the right choice. And so on.
For me, the priorities were
- good legacy lenses at decent prices
- leaf shutter lenses for strobe work
- back and body separately upgradable
- a good screen at the back for review
- capture one pro compatibility as it was my preferred raw converter
Mamiya leaf checked the most boxes at the least price and that is what I went with. Couldn't be happier.
I suggest you do the same analysis to make your decision, instead of trying to shoehorn options into a budget.
