I ordered some old tests. I generally rate lenses for sharpness by their performance at 8 x 10 inch enlargements, the maximum size produced by my Epson 870. Here's some of the interesting things I learned:
FA Power Zoom 28-105 f4-5.6. We all know this is a great lens, Well, it's even surprisingly sharp wide open through nearly the whole zoom range. Wide open at 28 is just a bit weak, but still good to 8 x 10 inches. Only weakness is in macro. Of course they're out of production. Get one while you can. F/FA 50 f1.7 vs. FA 43 f1.9. The 43 is very sharp from f4 on, and good at f2.8. The 50 is better at f2.8 and and just slightly (1 point on the SQF scale from 0 to 100 I think) less sharp at smaller apertures. But guess what? The 50 is quite a bit sharper wide open. Guess I'll be satisfied with my 50 f1.7. FA 24 f2. Yep, a great lens. But we knew that. (I don't have one.) FA 28-70 f2.8. Yes, it does f2.8 across the zoom range. But beyond 28 mm. it's not terribly sharp at 2.8. FA 80-200 f2.8. Incredible. Sharp wide open across the zoom range. Can I afford this lens? Do I want to carry it's weight? Do I wish I didn't know how good it is? I may not be able to answer questions right away - off for travel next week. Joe - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
