The Minolta 9xi was, when new in 1992, an advanced 35 mm single-lens reflex camera design. It incorporated the world's fastest autofocussystem (according to the company and when coupled to a xi series lens), had a maximum shutter speed of 1/12000 of a second and a 14-zone metering system.
The 9xi had been improved in many areas over the previous flagships, the 9000 and 8000i, including:
- A rugged construction with better moisture and dust sealing.
- Nearly the same shooting speed as the 9000, but without the additional heavy and bulky motor pack.
- An improved shutter speed from 1/8000 of a second (8000i) or 1/4000 (9000) to 1/12000 of a second due to carbon-reinforced shutter blades.
- A pentaprism where information was projected directly in the image using transparent LCD technology.
- Compatibility with xi zoom lenses having a "power zoom function", allowing for extra functionality.
- An improved synchronization time for the new set of flashguns launched.