The Minolta Maxxum 9xi is a flagship of the xi series SLR cameras. It was introduced in the early 1990s. In Europe, it was marketed as the Minolta Dynax 9xi. In Japan, the camera was available as the Minolta Alpha 9xi. In addition to the normal model, there was also a Quartz Date version with the possibility to imprint the shooting date on the pictures.
The lens of the Japanese camera is interchangeable. This is made possible by the Minolta A bayonet. There are many different lenses for this mount. Focusing is automatic. For this purpose, the camera is equipped with an autofocus system. Of course, the focus can also be adjusted manually.
You can also rely on the camera’s automatic exposure settings. There is a programme automatic that sets all values automatically. There is also a time and aperture priority mode. A fully manual mode is also available. Here you can choose between values of 1/12000 second and 30 seconds for the shutter speed. There is also a bulb mode for long exposures. The available aperture values depend on the lens.
The film speed can be set automatically by the camera. The camera technology uses the DX code on the film cartridge for this. Values from ISO 25 to ISO 5000 are supported. This value can also be set manually. Here, values in 1/3 steps from ISO 6 to ISO 6400 are available.
There is also a self-timer with a lead time of ten seconds. There is also a tripod connection on the underside of the housing. An external flash can also be connected to the Minolta camera.
According to the manual, the dimensions of the Minolta Maxxum 9xi are 16.3 x 9.8 x 6.4 cm. It weighs 740 grams without lens and film. A 2CR5 battery (eBay / Amazon*) is responsible for the power supply. This battery can easily be purchased online. One battery charge is enough for 1200 pictures.
Films for the Minolta Maxxum 9xi
The batteries are used for the display on the top of the housing. The number of photos taken is also displayed there. The film is automatically transported by a motor. The motor can take up to 4.5 pictures per second. Normally, 36 pictures fit on a roll of film.
The Minolta Maxxum 9xi was built for the 35mm format. Excellent films for the Japanese camera, which are still available and easy to buy today, are the Kodak Gold 200* for colour shots and the Ilford Delta 400* for black and white shots. Of course, there are other manufacturers of film. Suitable material is offered by Adox, Rollei, Foma or Lomography.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Single lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Automatic |
| Film transport mechanism | Motor |
| Pictures per second | 4,5 |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Lens mount | Minolta A mount |
| Focus | Autofocus |
| Exposure times | 1/12000 second to 30 seconds, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Light meter | Yes |
| Supported film speeds | ISO 25 to 5000 |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | Yes |
| Exposure modes | Program automatic, Aperture priority, Shutter priority, Manual mode |
| Date imprinting | Model variant |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Connection for Minolta flash units |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | No |
| Self-timer | Yes, Self-timer function with 10 seconds lead time |
| Power supply | 1x 2CR5 battery |
| Size | 16,3 x 9,8 x 6,4 cm |
| Dimensions in inches | 6.42 x 3.86 x 2.52 inches |
| Weight | 740 Grams |
| Names in other markets | Europe: Minolta Dynax 9xi, Japan: Minolta Alpha 9xi |
| Estimated value / Used price | 144,69 Euro 2582361351189127255611599167 Estimate based on used prices of 3 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of September 22, 2025 |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 184,00 Euro (199.16 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 144,00 Euro (155.87 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Minolta Maxxum 9xi
What is the maximum burst shooting speed of this SLR camera?
The Minolta Maxxum 9xi can shoot up to 4.5 frames per second, allowing for capturing fast-paced action.
Does the camera offer manual focus control, in addition to autofocus?
Yes, the Minolta Dynax 9xi provides both autofocus and manual focus options, offering flexibility to the photographer.
What kind of battery does the Alpha 9xi use, and approximately how many shots can it take on a single charge?
It uses a 2CR5 battery and provides power for around 1200 shots.
What film formats are compatible with this particular model?
The Minolta Maxxum 9xi is designed for 35mm film, accommodating standard 36-exposure rolls.
Can I use external flashes with the Minolta camera?
Yes, the camera features a connection for external flash units, expanding lighting possibilities.