If you find a both the MA and an A1 in great condition, you will discover that the MA has a nice fit with the A1, with a secure and comfortable grip. The drive speed is respectable, actually quite good back in 1980. Not as comfortable or easy to hold vertically as the newer drives are for the newer digital cameras. I really wish they had the nice rechargeable eneloops back when I had to use one of these for wedding and event work. I am not sure how practical these drives are now, being that film (at least for me) is more of a deliberate picture taking form, and there is digital for when I need to cover an event and shoot lots and lots of frames. But if you have a nice A1 that you would like to keep and enjoy using, then I think it is worth the experience to find a good condition MA for it.