Re: Vivitar 24/2
Hi, Henri Toivonen wrote: I got an offer to buy a Vivitar 24/2 for about $40 Can anyone tell me some info about it? Is it any good? I have a SMC-M 28/3.5 I use as my wide-angle prime, and I'm thinking of getting an even wider one. I had a Vivitar 24/2, then a Kiron 24/2, and now an SMC-A 24/2.8. The Vivitar was quite sharp, but had heavy flare problems. The Kiron had the same sharpness, with much better coatings and mechanics. The SMC-A beats all the above... Sylwester Pietrzyk wrote: THis Vivitar is in fact Kino Optical/Kiron 24/2 Are you sure? :-) http://www.cameraquest.com/VivLensManuf.htm Peter J. Alling wrote: This is considered a cult classic. If it's in good shape $40 is a steal. You can read a bit about it here: http://medfmt.8k.com/third/cult.html You mean the Series1 one. Do not mix it up with the other Vivitars! Bye, Gabor
K 85/2.2 soft
Hi, I just bought this gem, and looking for others having some experience with it. Above all, i'd like to see some photos taken with it... BDimitrov's page says: The aperture ring has no click-stops, but mine seems to have them. Is it a modified one, or ...? Thanks, Gabor
Re: 6x7 film choice
Hi, Kevin wrote: I will be shooting some indoor dancers. The layout is simple with 2 x 400 Watt studio flashes 1 stop apart with a white paper backdrop. My film choices are simply to use the ever reliable Fuji Reala (iso 100) or the Fujichrome Velvia (iso 50). I will be using some Fuji ACROS Neopan 100 for the black and white stuff. I would rather use dedicated portrait films, such as Fuji NPC/NPL, Kodak Portra 160VC or Agfa Portrait 160. The Reala is very close in many respects. I have never used the Velvia with the 6x7, nor have I used it indoors in 35mm format. I just can't stand the skin tones of that film. It can be a good choice, if you use strong colored filtered lighting. How does the Velvia perform with flashes? Any under exposure problems? It has some problems with very short flash durations, but your 400Ws units should not produce this effect. How does it handle contrasty situations? Very badly. This is a film to improve contrast, not to handle the existing one. Regards, Gabor
only MZ60 and *ist?
Hello PDMLers, The homepage of the Hungarian Pentax importer (www.slach.hu) states that MZ60 and *ist are the only 35mm Pentax SLR bodies in production, the other models still in stock will run out this year. Are they right? Gabor
Re: XP2
Hi, I use this film regularly, most of my recent BW shots (think of 35mm cameras; in MF I pefer more traditional ones like FP4, APX or Fortepan) was XP2s. I'd say that XP2 is a very special film. As others mentioned, it has probably the widest exposure latitude of all films available today, and even the very special balancing BW developing methods (think Dulovits) are just a bit better, at the cost of using some hard to get, expensive and extremely dangerous chemicals and extremely low ISO ratings. The resulting negs are of course of extremely low contrast, but they have all the detail in the highlights and shadows that other films would have already cut. The hard thing is to make decent prints or scans from this, as most of the time you will have to heavily raise contrast (and to make the final decision on what to expose correctly) in the darkroom and/or during digital post-processing. Most analog labs or automated digital processors will fail here for sure, but careful handling can achieve exceptional results. Using high contrast and/or multigrade papers is a good point to start. For the scanning people, a brave use of a Levels tool in PS is absolutely necessary before anything could be published or printed. Gabor
Re: Teleconverter question
Hi, Don Herring wrote: I am planning to get a 1.4-S teleconvertor, mainly to use with my A* 300/4. Can this particular converter be used with a 500/4.5 screw mount (with the screw mount adapter of course)? It can be used of course, but for these focal lengths the 1.4-L converter is definitely a better choice. Gabor
Re: pentax-discuss-d Digest V04 #532
Hi, Fred wrote: the A 1.4-L certainly will not fit the A* 300/4 Sorry, I didn't know that. What a shame... Terrible... Nikonish... :((( Actually, what particular A lens(es) does it fit? Are there any? Gabor
Re: Monopods
Hi, Jens Bladt wrote: I,ve seen a clever monopod in a shop years ago. It had a release button, that would shoot down the (only) leg to the ground. So, it worked as a handle, mounted under the camera. When pressing the button, the leg would come down. Anyone know which company makes something like that? Have a look at the Manfrotto 334B (Bogen 3245). Gabor
Re: Monopods
Hi, Jens Bladt wrote: I,ve seen a clever monopod in a shop years ago. It had a release button, that would shoot down the (only) leg to the ground. So, it worked as a handle, mounted under the camera. When pressing the button, the leg would come down. Anyone know which company makes something like that? Have a look at the Manfrotto 334B (Bogen 3245). Gabor
Re: About my name
Hi, Bob W [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: There is a compromise used by a famous Scot: Bond - James Bond. g A bit complicated, but tempting solution! :) Also, it is not for Wagendrinnkstrudelhoppers, Nagyhalommententereltnyajashazys and Vopoljebirjozastoialnikffs... The 'Oxford Guide to Style' has a long section on the treatment of names in different cultures. What a minefield! Some of them are very complicated indeed. It tells me, among other things, that if a Hungarian woman called Nagy Margit has a doctorate and marries a man, Szabo Istvan who also has a doctorate, she may be called Szabo Istvanne dr-ne Nagy Margit dr. Actually, this is not exactly the way it works. The above mentioned woman would be called dr. Szabo Istvanne dr. Nagy Margit, or dr. Szabone dr. Nagy Margit, or something like this. (dr. comes before the family name) Also note that dr. and Dr. are different things... Fortunatelly most people do not use these complicated forms. It also tells me - and I'm sure this will be useful some day - that the literal equivalent of 'forename' - elonev - denotes the adjective derived from the family estate that preceded a nobleman's surname and was itself preceded by his title. Eg: grof nagybanyai Horthy Miklos. I hope he fails his PhD, and doesn't marry a doctor, that's all. These rules are not in public use anymore. BTW, the man mentioned above was a governor of Hungary, died long ago, did not make any PhDs and because of he was a man, his name wouldn't show any change on marriage. Bye, Gabor
Re: pentax-discuss-d Digest V04 #494
Hi, mike wilson wrote: Also note that dr. and Dr. are different things... dr for PhD and Dr for medical doctor? Not a bad guess! :)) dr. is for doctor juris, Dr. for all the rest (PhD, medical). Of course the ones who do not seem to know this rule are mostly lawyers... Gabor
old-new member
Dear PDMLers, I subscribed again, and this time hopefully not for only a few months... I'm Gabor Sas from Hungary, with lots of Pentax 35mm SLR stuff in my bag and some let's say good slides made with them. You'll see... I also use lots of non-Pentax gear, the most important one being a Mamiya M645 set (sorry P645ers, money and that 1.9/80 was the point). Bye, Gabor
Re: PAW
Hi, What's a PAW actually? Thanks, Gabor
Re: 17 and kiron
Hi, I've got a 17/4.0 super-tak (I'd really like the SMC if I could find and afford it) which is small, light, and fun to play with but I'm not yet convinced it is all that sharp. The A16/2.8 is sharper, and a little better designed in some ways. Not to forget that russian Zenitar 2.8/16 here. In terms of contrast and sharpness, it's at least as good az the Pentax 17mm, but i'd say it's better. Also, the MC coating on this one works surprisingly well. I think fisheye lenses are much more about fun than making THE picture. So i won't spend too much on them. Even those terrible fisheye converters have a role here, if they're cheap enough. I personally don't know anyone who uses fisheyes that much that would justify buying an A16 or anything that expensive. Go for an SMC 2/28 instead... :) 28/2.0 Kiron I think that Kiron (Kino Precision, Japan) lenses are quite good ones, they are among the best 3rd party lenses I ever used. The ones I know are 24/2, 70-150/4, 80-200/4.5, and a 100mm macro. All of them have good mechanical and optical construction. Of course their coatings are not up to SMC, but far better than what the contemporary Vivitars, Sigmas or Tokinas have. The above mentioned 80-200/4.5 zoom is a quite interesting one, as it has a Zoom lock feature and the front element does not rotate. The 24/2 is still held by a friend, and at mid apertures it's well comparable to my SMC-A 24/2.8. (Think of slides, not small prints.) I didn't test it wide open, sorry. Even manufacturer's 28s can be weak at the edges, especially the fast ones, [...] That's not to say that I won't believe it could be fun and useful, especially if you got it for a lot less than the $350 or so that KEH currently has an M28/2.0 listed at. I don't think that price tells everithing about image quality. The M28/2 (or the A version, which I use) is a great lens, but in controlled light conditions (where SMC is not a must) it's results are hard to distinguish from say the Cosina MC 28/2, which is actually even smaller and costs less than 1/4 of the Pentax ones. So I think that that Kiron might wortht a try, if cheap enough. These ones can be surprisingly good, and they're better than average 3rd party 28 around for sure. Gabor
Re: Dust in Lenses
Hi, On 12 Nov 2002 at 21:41, Bojidar Dimitrov wrote: This is just a hypothesis, but I would guess that non-IF, non-FREE lenses have elements fixed with relation to each-other, so there is no air movin between the glass surfaces. IF and FREE lenses do have elements moving WRT others, so there is also air-flow, and thus an influx of dust. This is true for primes. And even those have that annoying small metal parts called aperture blades moving between the lenses... Gabor
Re: Agfa Portrait 160 XPS
Hi, On 11 Nov 2002 at 10:12, Bruce Dayton wrote: I shot some a while back and was not that happy with it. I shot it at 160. More recently, I was talking to an Agfa rep (complaining) and he told me to rate it at 125. I did so and was much more pleased with it. So based on my test and the Agfa rep, you should rate it at 125. After getting to the same conclusion with almost all C41 films I tried, I shoot all of them at least 1/3 stop overexposed most of the time. Gabor
Re: Metz adapter SCA372 and Pentax MZ 6.
Hi, Stumpf Krzysztof wrote: I have only metz SCA 372 adapter (for Pentax old cameras) I wonder how the adapter SCA 372 works with the pentax MZ 6 camera. Maybe somebody use this configuration ? I don't have an MZ6, but using SCA372 on SFXn and Z1P. It works fine. The level of servise is the analog Pentax TTL flash system, just like if you'd mounted an AF280T. titides wrote: I think that the SCA 374 / 2 AF was better than the 372. It has an additional AFassist beam. Gabor
Re: Oops
Hi, On 5 Nov 2002 at 14:15, Shaun Canning wrote: You know what I really hate when those stupid little tweezers for changing LX screens slip and scratch the crap out of an otherwise bewdiful LX screen. Damn I hate that... I know. The easiest way to make an LX unique... ;-) Gabor (pride user of a well-scratched SG-60)
Re: Jupiter-9 came today
Hi, On 4 Nov 2002 at 22:26, Dan Scott wrote: Nicer than what I expected. Russian design is always impessive in some ways! The manual, naturally, is in Russian. I see that I can turn the outer ring and that apparently adjusts to limit how far the aperture can be stopped down. The ring behind that controls the aperture itself. Last is the focus ring. Correct. That's all you have to know. What is the standard approach to these old style lenses? Focus, stop down, and shoot? Anything I should be aware of? I'll be using it on my ZX-5n once the adapter from BH gets here. Yes, that's the standard approach. Remember to stop down for metering too! Tip: When shhoting in the f2-f4 range, you can leave the aperture stopped down all the time. You can focus at f4. If I decide I like it enough to want to dedicate a body to it, what variety of Spotmatic should I be looking for? I'd go for an S3/H3. The absolute purist solution. Gabor
Re: Personal Poll, opinions wanted
Hi Pentax Guy, On 5 Nov 2002 at 9:37, Pentax Guy wrote: I have: FA 50mm f/1.4 FA 100mm f/2.8 Macro FA 28-105mm f/4-5.6 [IF] I'm looking at: FA 20-35mm f/4 AL or Used 300-600mm fixed focal manual focus. probably about 400mm I'd go for the 20-35. (Or FA* 2/24, but it wasn't listed...) In my opinion your set's weak point is wideangle. This lens is realtively small, so it'll be with you most of the time (not the fixed 400mm!). And it's a good one. The only exception is when you shoot mainly sports, wildlife or similar subjects. In this case you need a telephoto first. Gabor, who couldn't decide so has 20 lenses so far...
SFXn/SF1n service manual
Hi list, I'm looking for a service manual for SFXn/SF1n, or any SF camera, preferably in digital format. (Film transport failure: the rewind side is completely jammed.) Thanks in advance: Gabor
Re: Poll: Normal Zooms
Hi, Please answer the following 3 questions: 1.) Imagine that you urgently need a zoom for your k-mount camera which covers at least the focal lengths 40 to 70mm. Imagine further, that you have more than enough money to spend on such a zoom. Now imagine, that you enter a shop which has plenty of new and used Pentax glass. What are the 3 SMC Pentax zooms (1st, 2nd, and 3rd choice) that you would like to pick most? FA24-90/f3.5-4.5 IFAL FA28-70/f4 AL FA28-105/f4-5.6 2.) What 3rd party zoom lenses covering at least the 40-70mm range would you consider good alternatives? Please name up to 3 3rd party zooms. Tokina AT-X 28-85/4 3.) If you were dreaming, what would be your ideal (but realistic) SMC Pentax Zoom lens for k-mount, covering the at least the 40-70mm range? FA 24-70/4 (just like the 28-70) Gabor
Re: Favorite Poll
On 28 Oct 2002 at 10:07, Norm Baugher wrote: I'd just like to take a poll to see what your favorite poll is... Norm Definitely this one! Gabor
RE: Leica might (possibly) show a digital SLR at Photokina too??
Hi, On 6 Sep 2002 at 16:35, Rob Brigham wrote: I have been hearing some rumors about leica having a new dSLR which will be showed for the 1st time in photokina. Hmmm, an R8 digital... I hope it would be far too expensive to even think about it for me, or I might become faithless to my LX... Gabor
Re: Looking for a 300mm cheap
Hi, On 2 Sep 2002 at 22:25, Jim Fellows wrote: I need a long lens but do not want to spend a how lot of maony. I want something fairly sharp. It does not need to be a fast lens as I will be using a tripod. Thanks in advanced for all recommandations. The Tamron (Adaptall2) 5.6/300 seems to be a good choice for you. Gabor
Re: Lenses in the field (2)
Hi, On 15 Aug 2002 at 15:01, Peter Smekal wrote: A few recommended a 35mm lense as an allround/workhorse lense - rather than a 50mm as far I understood. I have no 35mm, but could of course try to get one - in Sweden some 2.8's in good condition are not too difficult to find. What is your experience. Would one lack the 50mm when taking a 24-35-85 combo? And in what situations? Last time I packed 24/2.8, 35/2 and 100/2.8. (A 85/2 could be a better choice, but unfortunately I haven't got one.) About 80% of the pictures were taken with the 35. I didn't lack my 50/1.4 a single time. A 35/2.8? Maybe I could do with it too. BUT: That extra stop seems to be important to have on a normal lens. Even F2 isn't too fast... Gabor - 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 .
Re: ??? on SMC M 120/2.8 and street candids
Hi, On 31 Jul 2002 at 13:09, steven gilson wrote: I am looking for a compact medium tele whose main use would be available light street photography and candid portraits. From looking at tech info and user comments the best (perfect?) canidate I can find in the Pentax line up is the M120/2.8. The only problem is I can't seem to find one for sale. I also fear that when I do it will be priced out of my range due to rarity. What appeals to me is the small size and weight for the focal length and speed of the lens. It would see a lot of use on a MX at wide aperatures. I currently have a zoom and a macro prime covering the focal range, neither of which meets both my size and my speed criteria. As someone said before, the difference between 100 and 135mm short teles is very slight. For the requirements You described above, I use the A 2.8/100 (almost identical to M 2.8/100) on my MX and SuperA bodies. Occasionally I prefer the M 4/75-150 zoom for a bit more versatility. This lens is also very compact. On a bigger/heavier camera, like my K2, LX or SFXn, I like the K 2.5/135 better. (These lenses were about 100 Euros each.) Gabor - 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 .
Re: White button on manual lenses...
Hi, On 29 Jul 2002 at 17:01, Heiko Hamann wrote: I've seen a K4/200, where the little white button on the side of the lens is missing. The only purpose of this button that I know is to help fitting the lens to the body (lining up the white button with the release catch on the body mounting). But is this the only purpose or is there anthing else? This is the only one. And - more important - is it a problem if the button is missing? No. (Lowers lens price a bit...) Gabor - 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 .
Re: Pentax vs Voigtlander Bessa
Hi, On 22 Jul 2002 at 19:07, Chris Niesmertelny wrote: No, it's not a test between the two. I've essentially whittled down my collection to 6 cameras, on the Pentax side the LX, ZX-5n, and an SV screwmount (additionally, a Chinon CE-4), and a Bessa R and L. Only 6 cameras? ;-) I have the Pentax LX, K2, SuperA, MX and SFXn (3 of them should be enough), a Kiev88, a Certo Six, a Kiev 4 (Contax III) set, a Revue 400SE, a Ricoh 500GX (note that the latter 4 are RFs); and an Espio 928 and a Canon Pima Mini II as family cameras. I'd be interested in knowing if any of you in the PDML have a similar set up and how you feel about using your equipment. If we consider only the Pentax and Kiev4 part, the setup is similar. I have to say, and I don't want to sound sacriligious, but my CV equipment has been used far more regularly (save for a recent vacation to Nova Scotia - only Pentax equipment used). Most of the time I carry only one of my major systems, and possibly one additional camera in addition. On my recent vacation (Monte Bianco (Italian side) and Cote 'd Azur (France)) I carried an LX based Pentax setup loaded with slides and the Certo Six with BW for some landscapes. The SLR and RF work is so different to me, that I cannot combine them effectively. There are SLR days and RF days. (The Certo is set to infinity most of the time.) One area where there is, from my perspective, more opportunity for the Voigtlander is in people photography. I agree. My main reason to have the Kiev4 is the Sonnar 2/85 and the portraits it makes. the ZX-5n which I brought to a street fair a month or so ago and people where actually running to get out of view. A black MX with a small lens (M series 2/35, 1.4/50, 2/85, 2.8/100, ...) doesn't seem to have this effect. I don't know why, but a chrome body acts definitely worse at this. I've been very impressed with the glass on the CV, owning the very nice 35mm f2.5 Classic, the great (TINY!) little 15mm and the 25mm I bought with the Bessa L. I use a Russian 50mm that serves it's purpose, and a Russian 85mm that is more than serviceable. My RF lenses are a 2.8/35, a 2/50, a 2/85 and a 4/135. The 85 is an original Sonnar, the others are original russian copies. ;-) I like them all, great optics. The 35 is a bit hard to use at it isn't a retrofocus design. I'd like to add an extra wide (21mm?) as well, but unfortunately these are extremely rare and expensive for this system. This camera has the built-in finder framed only for 50mm, so I have to use an accessory finder for the other FLs. It's a so called turret finder, with 5 focal lengths and parallax correction capability. A bit tricky to learn, but works very well if one is used to it. Also, it makes the camera that weird, that people forget to pose or complain... The LX meter is something beyond the capabilities of most cameras ever made, but then I don't use the Bessas in the same way, when critical exposures are necessary. I use an external meter (Svedlovsk 4) for the Kiev4. The built-in selenium one is more of a decoration than a reliable instrument. I guess for me I've found the perfect companion set up to the LX etc. Both kits seem to complement each other, and there's sometimes clearly a Bessa opportunity and a Pentax opportunity. Agreed. Gabor - 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 .
Re: Pentax vs Voigtlander Bessa
Hi, On 23 Jul 2002 at 7:43, frank theriault wrote: I too have a Yashica Electro 35, and it's a wonderful camera, especially for what I paid. Extremely sharp and fast lens! But I, too found it slow to use, especially focusing. Part of the problem was the rather dim (in my body at least) rangefinder patch (or whatever you call it). Another part of the problem is that there's no dof scale on the lens. Some other problems: - Electro 35's are quite large and heavy for an RF camera. - The light meter is on the body (not on the lens), so using filters is a pain. - They gave no information on the shutter speed at all. Gabor - 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 .
Re: 100mm 2.8 Macro vs. 100mm 2.8
Hi, On 12 Jun 2002 at 16:51, Mishka wrote: apart from myself, according to photodo.com the MTF ratings are (...) photodo tests lenses at infinity, which IMHO isn't the apropriate method for macro lenses... Gabor - 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 .
Re: Hood advice for M35/2
Hi, On 26 May 2002 at 19:13, Frantisek Vlcek wrote: a perfect metal (but not good for impacts and falls, as it's too rigid and will transform all force onto the lens) hood for 35mm lenses: Pentacon Praktica 50mm metal rectangular hood (49mm filter ring). I agree, that Pentacon hood is great. (Boxed ones go for about $2 here.) The Kiev 50mm rectangular metal hood (also 49mm thread) is even better: the hood is a bit deeper and not so rigid. The only problem is that it seems to be extremely rare... The only one I know of is mine. Gabor - 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 .
Re: Value of Monopod
Hi, On 27 May 2002 at 9:23, Joseph Tainter wrote: Does anyone know how much is gained using a monopod in terms of reduction of necessary shutter speed? For example, using a 300 mm. lens, the 1/focal length rule would call for 1/350 sec. How much can that be reduced with a monopod? With my LX and Rikenon XR 4.5/300 APO on monopod, 1/125s is safe, and most of the 1/60s shots are sharp as well. This is about 2 stops gain. The monopod is a Manfrotto 434 (3018) with 308RC (3413QR) ball head. Gabor - 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 .
Re: Which xx-300 AF lens to buy?
Hi, I have a choice, and it is difficult :-) Which of below lenses could you recommend? Pentax SMC-F 100-300/4.5-5.6 Pentax SMC-FA 80-320/4.5-5.6 Sigma DL-Macro 70-300/4-5.6 Tamron LD 75-300/4-5.6 (with macro 1:3.9) The Pentax 80-320 or the Tamron. The newer (APO) Sigma would be even better. The Tokina AT-X 4/100-300 would be perfect. Gabor - 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 .
Re: Must be new toys time again....
Hi, On 15 May 2002 at 13:12, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: AF 1.7x teleconverter (think I might convert this to Nikon) And you might call it TC16A... Gabor - 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 .
Re: Okay folks, fess up, WAY OT
Hi, On 10 May 2002 at 13:52, Bill Owens wrote: I'll go first (hanging my head in shame) No shame at all. We have to use some non-Pentax equipment regularly just to see the diffrence.. ;-) My question is; How many of you will confess to owning and/or using either the K60 or the K88? I have a nice Kiev88 with 3.5/45, 2.8/80, 2.8/150, a removable lens 2X TC, TTL prism and waist level finder + 2 magazines. A very capable set, but I use it only a few times a year, for special purposes. For regular shooting, I like my little Pentaxes (LX, MX) so much more... The K88 is far too big for a second body, most of the time I carry around my CertoSix (6x6 RF folder) instead. Gabor - 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 .
Re: LX noise redux (Was: Re: Got One! (Was: Held an MZ-S Last Night))
Hi, On 6 May 2002 at 11:14, Christian Skofteland wrote: I found a venue where the ka-chunk of the LX is an asset. I was a t the zoo with my daughter over the weekend photographing anything that I could. The tigers, Serval and small tree-shrew type animals would not look at me whilst I composed. So: Ka-Chunk! went the LX as I photographed their backs. Their heads would whip around to see what made the noise and Ka-Chunk! I'd get a nice portrait! The 67 should also work with a def leppard ... Gabor - 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 .
Re: SD1, SD21
Hi, On 29 Apr 2002 at 9:29, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Yes I have the SD21 and used it for several years. Now I have mostly grid patterns on my LX cameras but I am thinking about reinstalling the SD21 and use one of the LX for primarily macro work... What is the center cross for? Why is it better for you than grid or plain matte screens? Gabor - 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 .
Re: Favorite wide lens?
Hi, On 25 Apr 2002 at 21:23, Debra Wilborn wrote: Just a quick question. What is your prefered wide angle lens? I have been thinking about getting a third party lens, probably around 24mm, and wanted some feedback from the group. SMC Pentax-A 2.8/24 24mm is one of my most used focal lengths. I've also tried the Tamron (Adaptall2) 2.5/24 and the Vivitar 2/24. All of them are good lenses, but the Pentax's coating and handling is much better than the other two. Other wideangles I use: Tokina 3.5/17 SL Cosinon-W 2/28 SMC Pentax-M 2/35 Gabor - 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 .
Re: SF1 or MZ-5N, that is the question!
Hi, The main differences are: - The SF1 is bigger, heavier, has more metal in it. - The SF1 has a better finder, with interchangeable screens. - The SF1 has better in focus indicator. Not a singke dot (like MZ5n), but with two additional arrows showing the direction to turn the focus ring. - The SF1 has lighting for the top LCD. - The SF1 has the flash shoe on the right, so you can use the RTF and an extrnal flash on the camera simultanously. - The MZ5n is newer, has better AF, spot and matrix metering. - The MZ5n has more information in the finder. - The MZ5n is faster, quitter. - The MZ5n has DOF preview. The MZ5n and SF1 shutters have the same specs. The SF1n is an upgraded SF1 wit a better shutter (like the MZ3). You can buy cca. 3 SF1 cameras for the price of a MZ5n, both used... Gabor - 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 .
Re: SMC vs C-n-n Coatings (from C-n-n FAQ)
Hi, On 22 Apr 2002 at 18:18, Mishka wrote: playing devil's advocate, according to http://people.smu.edu/rmonagha/mf/coatings.html there's no significant improvement in flare resistance between single- and multicoated optics, in lab tests at least. granted, it talks mostly about primes, but still, is it that big of a deal, really? I can't agree. In my experience, even on primes, there's a visible difference between different brands of MC. (That's why I sold my Vivitar 24/2 and bought a Pentax-A 24/2.8 instead. Even my Cosina 28/2 was better than taht Vivitar.) I don't think that Vivitar's MC could be worse than a single coating... Maybe there are some extremely good single coatings, which were used in that tests, but aren't mass produced? Gabor - 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 .
Re: sfx
Hi, On 15 Apr 2002 at 23:10, Lukasz Kacperczyk wrote: Everybody's raving about MZ-S's slanted top plate and how convenient it is. I was just looking at the pictures at Boz's site and I'm inclined to think that the SFX already had that feature. Am I right, or am I wrong? You are right, it's slightly slanted. Not a big help with that control layout... And could someone please tell me why Pentax made such an ugly camera? Every manufacturer did that in those dark ages. SFXn is at least a well built, practical one, not simply ugly. Gabor - 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 .
Re: S-M-C Tak 85/1.8
Hi, Thanks for the quick answers. Had a second look on it and bought it. Seems to be a great one, I like the handling very much. My S3 is happy too. BTW, the price was about 100 EUR. Something for the Best deal thread? Gabor - 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 .
S-M-C Tak 85/1.8
Hi Pentaxians, Just ran into a lonely S-M-C Tak. 85/18 here, and cannot decide if I need it or not. Is it a good lens? Is it the same design as the K version? Is it rare? What's the real price for a nice one (I'd say A-) with original caps and hood? Any comments are welcome. Gabor - 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 .
Re: Your desert-island kit?
Hi, On 15 Apr 2002 at 12:09, Mark Erickson wrote: Ok, here's a new question for you on this bright and happy Monday. Say you have to pare your camera gear down to one body and one fixed-focal-length lens for the next couple of years. The body and lens to come from your current gear selection. What will it be, and why? LX + M 35/2. Simple, powerful and natural. Probably survives me. Gabor - 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 .
Re: ???: Soligor 90/2,5 Macro
Hi, On 26 Mar 2002 at 16:14, Bojidar Dimitrov wrote: Does anyone have any info on the following (Ka mount!!!) lens: Soligor C/D Macro MC 90mm f/2.5 (62mm filter diameter) Just got the same item (from ebay.de), and I am impessed too. No photos or field experiences yet... I know that Soligor does not produce their own lenses. So, the question is, can anyone identify this lens? Which lens have I really got? It looks and feels like a winner! I heard that Soligor C/D series were their pro series, just like Vivitar's Series1 and Tamron's SP. Nothing about the design... Gabor - 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 .
Re: 300/4, 300/4.5 PK manual-focus: Only Ricoh has a tripod collar
Hi, On 14 Mar 2002 at 22:35, Paul F. Stregevsky wrote: Odd as it seems, there's no way to get all of the following, new or used, in a single Pentax 300/4 or 300/4.5 lens: - PK mount - manual focus - tripod collar F and FA lenses can be focused manually... ;-) To my knowledge, the only lens that offers all of these attributes is Ricoh's XR Rikenon Apochromatic 300/4.5. A photo can be seen at http://www.butkus.org/chinon/ricoh_slr_systems/ricoh_slr_systems.htm Which is a Sigma design, so probably it exists under the Sigma name too. Here are the Ricoh's specs: close focus: 2.5 m (the Pentax 300/4.5s, 2.0 m) The manual Pentaxes are limited to 4m. It's because this Ricoh lens is IF design. 1050 g (37 oz.)--30 g (about 1.1 oz) more than the Pentax SMC 300/4 PK Not a difference. (3%) BTW, it feels a bit strange because it's long, heavy and thin at the same time. 67 mm filter ring This was a point for me since I didn't want to invest in a set of 77mm filters (I already had 67mm). The only one I've ever seen for sale is for sale right now (EX condition), in Canada, at http://www.carsand.com/UsedEquip.shtml for 400 Cdn ($248). The only one I've ever seen for sale is now my favourite tele. It was about 150USD, new in box (a nice black leather box!!!). It seems I was lucky... Gabor - 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 .
RE: super-wide-angle options?
Hi, Mark Erickson [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]]: I'd like to add super-wide-angle capability to my photo setup. I've been mulling over the options, and I'm hoping to get some advice from the list. I'd like to go rectilinear rather than fisheye, and here are the options I'm considering: (...) I'd also consider the Tokina 17/3.5 SL (not AF, not AT-X). It's cheap, compact and not a bad lens at all. Gabor - 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 .
Re: Silly Photo.net thread
Hi, I think the thread IS silly because the initial question is silly as well. Lower class budget camera bodies aren't supposed to be used for nature photography with big glass. Nor the MZ/ZX bodies, nor Canon Rebels, nor Nikon Fxx cameras. Interesting to see that some people can heavily argue on which turtle flies faster... On 8 Mar 2002 at 5:51, Bruce Rubenstein wrote: Having used more than one system I would say that Pentax is fine for stuffed animals, but for live ones there are far more sutiable tools. The Rebel or the F65? I still cannot decide... I know, it's all marketing. All magazines are paid off. All professional photographers using Canon or Nikon have either been given their equipment for free, or mindless fools sucked in by the ads. Don't mix up things, please. That thread wasn't about professional photography. Pentax has aquired its present reputation through years of dilligent presistance of making 35mm SLRs that serious amatures and professionals don't want. ??? Gabor - 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 .
Re: Silly Photo.net thread
Hi, On 8 Mar 2002 at 10:36, Collin Brendemuehl wrote: Pentax produces some of the finest lenses around, and the most outstanding consumer bodies available. That (plus compatibility) is far enough for me. What else does an amateur need? BUT -- only 1 pro body. It appears they want to *soak* all the possible profit from each unit. Almost 20 years for the LX series. How long can the MZ-S endure? There's no long-range vision there. The glorious days of the 35mm professional photography seem to be over. Not the big market of the future. For the remaining few applications, the MZ-S is just fine. Is there any AF 35mm true system camera except the F4 and F5? Where's the F6? What's a photographic solution? It's not just equipment. It's equipment that will prove itself in the field as being the BEST. But that's simply silly marketing-speech... I don't want a camera that's big brothers are the best _in a field_. I want a good overall performance on my one. Canon wins with the fastest AF. Not really. How about some outstanding specs to meet demanding circumstances? Certainly with not the dust/dirt vulnerability of Pentax' A contacts. Never used them... How is the dust rejection of the current FA lenses? Just like all the other manufacturer's ones, except some latest high-end ones. (A Pair of Canon L-s come into mind.)) Pentax can be taken seriously -- but not as seriously as the others. ;-) Any venue Pentax works in (in 35mm) the others do as well. This is Pentax' failing -- Pentax does not EXCELL Beyond the others. Show me the Canon limiteds, please. Show me a pro quality Nikon outfit I can carry in the high mountains without 6-8 sherpas. Show me any camera resembling the new 67. Mamiya rules studio cameras. 'Blad rules location units. C N rule PJ, digital and film. These are applications I'm not interested in. Pentax is quickly becoming an also-ran, at least in 35mm and digital. With Contax, Leitz, Sinar, the Fuji MFs, the Bronicas... Not a bad company. ;-) Too much concentration on the pieces of the pie and not enough on owning the whole pie. I'm a piece, not the whole. Pentax has more to offer than most people realize. They are A leader. But not enough to be THE leader. Not a problem, again. Gabor - 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 .
Re: Silly Photo.net thread
Hi, On 8 Mar 2002 at 8:12, Bruce Rubenstein wrote: Well, you can take a look at the Professional Photographers forums here: http://www.photonews.com/forums/forums.html You will see: a) That they are just about all freelancers and pay for their own equipment. b) For 35mm they shoot Nikon and Canon A search for Pentax, in the Phototech forum yielded one 35mm related thread, Camera for a kid. Not a representative poll. Two examples: - We have a local photo mailing list for amateurs on which about the 50% of the people are using Minolta. They don't even have a dealer in our country... - I often visit a local web-based political forum, where about 2/3 of the participants agree for a party that will hardly get 5%, according to more representative measures. Gabor - 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 .
Re: LX and batteries again
Hi, On 6 Mar 2002 at 17:52, Peter Smekal wrote: Abody knows for how long time or for how many rolls of film the mini batteries in the LX will normally last? I had this strange problem with a pair of new batteries in my new LX. After 36 hours and 1 roll of film they were dead. Later they seemed too have recovered and I could shoot one more role of film with them before the shutter speed LED started to flicker again. Strange behaviour! It happened to me too, with alkaline (LR44) batteries. It seems, that the LX doesn't like them. Use the recommended silver oxyde cells, and enjoy your LX! Gabor - 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 .
Re: Yet Another PK-Mount 85/1.4
Hi, An attempt to fill the gaps: On 6 Mar 2002 at 8:53, Fred wrote: http://www.zenit-foto.ru/about/optictech/lenses/foto/zenitar1$4_85.htm ??? ??? 1,4/85 MC Zenitar ??? - 45,5 +-2 mm Working distance (film to mount) ??? - 11 +3 - 3 - 0-0 +3 - 3 Color transmission. Does anybody know what these numbers mean? Gabor - 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 .
Re: LX-testing again
Hi, On 25 Feb 2002 at 19:33, Peter Smekal wrote: I have a copied manual. It says a red LED will glow next to LT, B2 when there is no sufficient light or when the camera has selected a long exposure time. How does on know which of these two alternatives the actual one at the moment? Both of them. The LX's time scale end at 4s, so any longer exposure cannot be displayad in the finder. Also, at these long speeds, the camera cannot effectively pre-estimate the correct exposure. It cannot tell you in advance that a 10 minutes exposure will be enough or not. The beauty of the real-time OTF metering... ;-) Gabor - 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 .
Re: what makes of around 80~100 mmlenses are worth having?
Hi, On 6 Feb 2002 at 13:27, Alan Abbott wrote: I want a portrait lens of around 85mm but cant afford the pentax lenses that come up for sale (UK). Can anyone suggest a different make that would be worth loking at? I am not after high speed, just something to take some good family shots indoors (ie flash etc). Alan I use the screwmount Carl Zeiss Pancolar 80/1.8 MC with a PK adapter. An excellent lens! I don't know the UK prices, but mine was about 16000HUF, which is a little less than 40GBP. The russian Jupiter-9 85/2 is also an option. Not that good, but acceptable and dirt cheap. Gabor - 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 .
Re: Old lenses
Hi, On 1 Feb 2002 at 14:33, Alan Abbott wrote: I have been following the threads about rare earth elements in old lenses with interest. I does concern me that there 'may' be a health problem with them. I love my Tak lenses but... What do people think? Is this one of those things that you have more chance of winning the lottery or is it a real concern? I think it's no problem as long as you don't eat the lenses. Gabor - 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 .
Re: 50mm lenses for bellows use.
Hi, I'd go for a cheap screwmunt 50mm macro, like the russian Industar 61L/Z 2.8/50. I've bought mine new in box for about 20 Euros a month ago on eBay. Gabor - 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 .
Re: How many 35mm lenses do you own?
Hi, On 15 Jan 2002 at 13:44, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: 1. How many 35mm Pentax-compatible lenses do you own? Include screwmount and K mount. 28 (7 of them for sale; 2 of them didn't reach me yet) 2. How many primes? 22 (5; 2) 3. How many zooms? 6 (1; -) 4. What's the greatest number of lenses any one focal length (or focal-length class, such as 15 and 17mm, 28 and 30, 50 and 55, 77 and 85mm, 100 and 105mm, 120 and 135, 135 and 150, 180 and 200). Don't include effective focal lengths via teleconverters. 50-55mm: 7 (100mm: 6 ) 5. If your partner had her/his way, how many lenses would you have left? (in my case: zero) All of them. She has her own set of a body, 2 primes and a zoom. Gabor - 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 .
Re: Prefire vs. mirror-lock
Hi, On 14 Jan 2002 at 11:47, Mark Roberts wrote: For me, pre-fire is much more useful most of the time. Could you explain this a bit more in detail? Gabor - 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 .
Re: SFXn Remote Control
Hi, On 3 Jan 2002 at 14:25, Marcello Anselmi Tamburini wrote: Ok. I tought something else because of the price: 50 U$ or more!! It's pretty simple to make your own cable release for all AF pentaxes except th new MZ-S, which has digital communications. Read this, for example: http://w3.one.net/~georgek/pentax/acc/g0008.html Gabor - 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 .
Re: Hi everybody
Hi, Marcello Anselmi Tamburini [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I'm new. I write from Italy and I recently bought a SFXn: there's someone who have too? Welcome to the list! I actually use an SFXn and like it very much. (OK, it's the secondary body, Ilike my LX more...) Any questions? Gabor (from Hungary) - 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 .
Re: Hi everybody
Hi, On 2 Jan 2002 at 14:10, Marcello Anselmi Tamburini wrote: The only thing that is missing to SFXn is the memory of exposure Press the ML button on the back, there it is! (Also lights the LCD.) the 30 position in manual too. Not a real problem, in B mode you can do any exposure longer than 1s precisely enough. Use a cable release! Gabor - 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 .
Re: Hi everybody
Hi, On 2 Jan 2002 at 15:22, Marcello Anselmi Tamburini wrote: Are you saing the M button that is also used to illuminate the top display? Is not very intuitive!!! But works! ;-) Gabor - 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 .
Re: Hi everybody
Hi, On 2 Jan 2002 at 15:20, Marcello Anselmi Tamburini wrote: Yes: because of my zoom, I can't use programs: What zoom is it? To use program modes, the aperture ring on the lens should be in A position. I read in Internet there are three types of programs: can you decribe me rapidly? There is the general use normal program, a sports program for fast shutter speeds and a landscape program for large depth of field. I don't use P modes at all. My camera is always in M or A (aperture priority). Gabor - 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 .
928 questions
Hi, I have some questions about the Espio 928 (the old one, not M) camera: - When I press the upper right (focus mode) button three times, the zoom goes to 28mm and an icon appers on the LCD which looks like a hand holding the camera. What is this mode for? - When I press the upper left (red-eye) button long, the exp. compensation comes up. There is also a small flower icon blinking on the LCD these times. What is it for, and how to use it? - Is there any way to lock the shutter in open position in B mode? Thanks in advence! Gabor - 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 .
S3 questions
Hi screwmount fans, Just bought a beautiful Pentax S3 + Auto Takumar 1.8/55 set for about $30. It was so nice, that I couldn't resist... Now, I'm full of questions: Is there anyone still using them? Is the camera as rugged as it seems? How old, how rare it is? How good is the lens? Is it standard M42, compatible with CZJ lenses? Currently I use PK cameras and lenses only, and the new S3 is just for fun. Big fun, for sure! Gabor - 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 .
RE: S3 questions
Hi, Thanks for all the answers! I really needed your words, every friend of mine told me I was completely stupid... On 18 Dec 2001 at 12:10, Joe Wilensky wrote: If yours is in really nice condition, $30 was a great price! Did it come with the clip-on external meter that couples to the shutter speed dial? I didn't got a meter with it, but I don't need it. This camera is about simplicity for me... It's in mint condition, maybe used only a few times. There are two things about it: - the lens is a bit hard to focus - there's a little polished area on the top of the prism housing (maybe because of the meter you mentioned?) These cameras were _very_ quiet for their time, compared to the competition, It's also quiet compared to my LX... The Auto-Takumar your S3 came with is probably the one with the completely automatic diaphragm (in fact a Super-Takumar), with the A/M switch that allows it to open back up to full aperture immediately after the exposure. Yes, it is. The 55/1.8, an exceptionally sharp and wonderful standard lens, We'll see in a few days... Enjoy your S3 -- the clean, unobstructed viewfinder (without even a meter needle to distract) offers a spartan, and yet purer, kind of vision to some photographers. Like me... ;-) BTW, the finder is surprisingly bright for a 40 yrears old camera! You can use it with a handheld meter, or get the Pentax clip-on, or make it a completely meterless camera, dedicated for use with the Sunny 16 rule in mind, or you can use it for infrared photography, where exposure would be estimated for the most part, anyway. Get a lens hood for that 55/1.8 to reduce problems with flare, and enjoy! These exactly are my plans in mind. ;-) The first roll is in. Action! Thanks again, Gabor - 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 .
Re: 135mm 1.8 or faster
Hi, Yes, the A* 1.8/135 is ideal to have, but terrible to buy. I've seen a person who was lucky enough to touch one... ;-) There are some much cheaper, a bit darker ones, that are very good performers as well, and are easier to find too. These are the old Pentax SMC 2.5/135 (not the Takumar!) and the Vivitar Series1 2.3/135. You may find some other fast 135s, like the Vivitar 1.8 and even 1.5, or some other 1.8-s, but these are said to be poor performers. The good news is that the latter are dirty cheap also. Gabor - 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 .
Re: OT: Zeiss lenses for Pentax
Hi, On 1 Dec 2001 at 18:18, Collin Brendemuehl wrote: http://cgi.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItemitem=1300692156 Interesting. I've not seen one of these before. These seem to be Korean ones, made by Samyang Co. Acceptable, but nothing special. There were only two true German Zeiss Jena zooms: a 2.7-3.5/35-70 and a 4/80-200. All PB mounts, nothing for Pentax. Gabor - 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 .
RE: Viruses Worms Everywhere
Hi, On 30 Nov 2001 at 10:04, Kent Gittings wrote: In my opinion at least Outlook tends to be more intuitive than using the Netscape email client. But these are only two. Two of the most common ones, and obviously the ones the viruses and worms are tested on. Personally, I'm for Pegasus Mail, but there are lots of others... I've used other products over the years but most have some limitations and as a result I tend to put up with the vulnerabilities. Which are limitations too... ;-) And by the way my wife's machine uses Netscape Communicator so it is not an Outlook specific virus. As long as your machine is set to execute JavaScript wise open it is vulnerable. True. HTML mail with embedded active or binary content will always be a risk. That's why I don't send HTML mail at all. For the scripted mails: has anybody ever seen anything really useful based on this feature? Gabor - 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 .
XR Rikenon 4.5/300 APO
Hi, Has any of You heard of this lens? How does it compare to the MF Pentax ones? It has a rotating tripod collar, 67mm filter thread, focuses to 2.5m, looks beautiful, and costs at a local shop about $150 with caps, case... I just can't resist... BTW, are Ricoh's lenses original designs or ...? Gabor - 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 .
SCA3701
Hi, I have a Metz 40MZ1 + SCA3701 on my SFXn, without any manuals, as usual. ;-) The SCA adapter has four settings: The first one is standard first curtain sync, the second one is rear sync. But what are the others for? The third one has a sign similar to the first setting, but with two lightning bolts. The last one is marked SB. Gabor - 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 .
RE: Only using my prime lenses - I promise
Hi, I won't promise anithing like that... Here's my story: I started SLR photgraphy with some russian screwmount Zenits and later upgraded to Praktica. My lenses were also east-german and russian ones. What a simple situation, almost no zooms there... ;-) My first and only M42 zoom lens was the russian Granit11M 4.5/80-200, which, to my greatest surprise, was better at 200mm than my Pentacon 4/200. A great one! Then I moved to PK, bought a Chinon CE5 + 1.4/50. To cover the 28-200 mm focal lengths, the quickest and cheapest solution was to buy a pair of zooms. The Tokina ATX 3.5-4.5/28-85 wasn't a bad one, but I didn't like the close focus at 28mm above 1m, it was bulky compared to my old primes, and wasn't a true zoom, while the 4/80-200 (can't remember the brand) was a total disappointment. So I started to buy primes again... (BTW my first Pentax equipment was the M 1.7/50, so much better than the 1.4 Chinon...) I only used the Tokina on some events. Currently, my LX sees mostly primes. The only exception is a great telezoom again: the M 4/75-150. I have also a Tamron 3.8-4/70-210, which i keep for its 0.9m close focusing ability in the whole range, 1:2.9 macro. Meanwhile, I've built another set: SFXn with Tokina AF 3.5-4.5/ 28-105 and Tokina AF 4.5/70-210, plus a Metz 40. I use this for reporter style photography, while the LX set is for my pleasure. The great thing about Pentax is that the two above sets are compatible. Just in case... Gabor - 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 .
LX battery check?
Hi, Just had a terrible experience with my LX. I was taking some autumn pictures in the forest, and all went OK, when suddenly, in the middle of an apox. 1s exposure, my LX locked up. Setting the speed dial to B at least closed the sutter and released the mirror. After some minutes, a last hope, I replaced the batteries, and HUH!, everything is OK now. I suspect some other pictures taken just before this accident are underexposed. But... Is there any way to check the LX's batteries without getting some sort of the above results? The meter's LEDs were OK. Gabor - 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 .
Re: LX battery check?
Hi, On 25 Oct 2001 at 8:29, William Robb wrote: The LX has a built in battery check. When the LEDs start flickering, it is time to replace the batteries. Your desription sounds like this didn't happen. I'm not sure, because I didn't know what to look for. Were you using silver oxide batteries (the preferred type) or some other type (alkaline or lithium)? Alkalines. Gabor - 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 .
RE: LX battery check?
Hi, On 25 Oct 2001 at 10:38, Skofteland, Christian wrote: The LED's are supposed to flash to indicate low battery Where you on Automatic or was the dial on 1? It was on Auto. Gabor - 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 .
Re: Cheating
Hi, On 21 Oct 2001 at 1:26, J. C. O'Connell wrote: Any of you all use equipment other than Pentax at times? I use: - Kiev88 with 3.5/45, 2.8/80 and 2.8/150. (also have a 4.5/300 and 3.5/65, for sale) - Ricoh 500GX rangefinder - the family's Canon Prima Mini II Gabor - 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 .
Re: Fast 35mm Lenses
Hi, On 24 Oct 2001 at 9:22, tom wrote: I had an M 35/2 for a while which I loved. Colors were a bit muted, but b+w was fantastic. Could you describe these muted colors in detail? I haven't noticed anything like this so far with M lenses... (Just bought the M2/35.) Gabor - 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 .
Re: K2 shutter vibration question
Hi, On 24 Oct 2001 at 10:29, Robert Soames Wetmore wrote: I've always admired the K2 as the ultimate of the Pentax K's. It is. However, I keep hearing that its (Seiko-sha?) metal focal plane shutter induces a fair amount of vibration (...) Can anyone confirm that this is true? Is there noticeable degradation of image clarity - and under what conditions? With my M4/100 macro and Soligor 4.5/300 macro and some wides, nothing special. You can easily feel the heavy vibration, but as far as I can tell, the most of it happens when the shutter closes, so it shakes the camera after the exposure. From http://ca.geocities.com/spirope/PentaxSLR.htm; : In addition to its weight, it has two significant drawbacks: its ASA setting must be the most difficult of any camera ever made, IMO the ISO setting isn't bad at all. The exposure compensation is another thing: full stops only, too easy to move without notice. and its first-generation electronic shutter is noisy and vibration prone. The camera gives a kick that is not solved by locking up its mirror (a feature it has), which no doubt degrades image quality at slow shutter speeds. Modern shutters are better at this, no doubt. Use MLU, a good tripod, and try to avoid speeds between 1/4 and 1/15... I like my K2 a lot! Gabor - 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 .
My PUG picks
Hi, A nice gallery again! Some pictures' connection to the title Elements might requre a little explanation, though... ;-) Here are my favorites: Coming... by Edward Kreis Lightning bolt by Alastair Robertson Volcano by Mark Dalal Presque Isle Kettles by Ken Waller Water Colours by Hans-Bernhard Beykirch The Sea by Matjaz Osojnik I like them mostly for their simple but powerful compositions. Gabor - 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 .
Re: Biro, ball point pen
Hi, On 17 Sep 2001, Shel Belinkoff wrote: Now to the ball point pen. The ball point pen is almost as old as photography itself, having been invented prior to October, 1888, the date when it was patented. It was met with mixed success, although it worked well for rough marking of items, as the ball was not very precisely ground and the ink was rather thick. However, in 1944 an Argentinean by the name of Lazlo Biro (coincidentally, a distant relative to a high school classmate, Barbara Biro) was able to successfully produce an accurately ground ball that would ride in a brass socket. This was the first ball point pen that could achieve fine enough detail for correspondence and be able to compete with the fountain pen in producing even lines. Almost true ;-) Biro Laszlo and Biro Gyrgy were Hungarians. They invented the first versions of the pen here in Hungary, but didn't do anythig to put it in production. Later they moved to Argentina (because of WWII), and found some investors there and marketed the pens. It needed heavy redesign before the success... Gabor - 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 .
Re: Capa (was: Scary)
Hi, On 7 Sep 2001, Robert Harris wrote: (http://www.icp.org/exhibitions/capa/capa.html) give it as: If your pictures aren't good enough, you're not close enough. Yes it's correct. BTW did you know that Capa was Hungarian, and he's real name was Friedmann Endre? Gabor - 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 .
Re: CZJ 80/1,8 with K mount?
Hi, I wrote: Here in Hungary it's about 14000-2HUF, aprox. 50-70USD. I've seen some above $200 on eBay... Gabor Frantisek replied: Now, Gabor, I am going to Hungary this moment! Even here in Czech republic they are more than double your amount! And the prices rise... Is the price real? You're welcome anytime! ;-) Yes, the price is real (I bought mine for 15000HUF in January), but it takes some hunting to get one. Currently I know one (B mount version) for sale... Kryt wrote a few minutes later: The seller also wants me to pay 450 zl PLN polish zl (over 100 bucks)! I know now that you can buy good cheap wine and lenses in Hungary. ; ) OK guys, it seems to be time for an East-European PDML meeting... ;-) I cannot promise you trees with thousands of sunkissed Pancolars on them, but our wine is always good... ;-) Gabor - 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 .
Re: CZJ 80/1,8 with K mount?
Hi, On 5 Sep 2001, krytu [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Does somebody know anything about CZJ Prakticar 80/1,8 MC with K mount? Ii it good as a portrait lens compare to CZJ 135/2,8 MC and SMC A 135/2,8? I know SMC 85/1,4 is superb but it`s out of my range. No CZJ lenses were made for K mount, so if you found one, then it's a modified one or most probably one for the Praktica B bayonet mount. It's a superb lens, sharpness, contarst are very good, nice bokeh. I like the handling too. One of my friends use it on bellows for macro, and gets decent results. On the other hand, the CZJ MC is not as good as Pentax SMC, so one can have some flare problems. This lens also has some mechanical problems (there are some weak plastic parts in the newer ones; and the aging grease gets oily and leaks onto the diaphragm blades and blocks them), which are quite easy to repair. As far as I know, there isn't such a thing that CZJ 2.8/135. CZJ made a beautiful 3.5/135 (Sonnar) in this range. The 2.8/135 was a Meyer design, and not bad at all for portraiture. I don't know the Pentax A 2.8/135, but it is said to be one of the worst Pentaxes. BTW the old (K series) SMC 2.5/135 is one of my favourites... Gabor - 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 .
Re: One Sentence
I have so many reasons to photograph, that I have none. - 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 .
Re: Most Productive Gear?
Hi, What is your most productive body and lense combo? LX with 2/28 (sorry, it's a Cosina...) Whats your least productive body and lense combo, which really should have been productive. K2 and 2.8/16 fisheye. I couldn't manage to get a single shot with it... Gabor - 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 .
Re: LX OTF metering, useful to you?
Hi, On 11 Aug 2001, at 19:13:17 -0700 (PDT), Tonghang Zhou wrote: I have some LXes and very pleased with them. But I don't understand why the OTF metering is that useful, considering especially how much this feature costs in the Olympus OM cameras. Have a look at my submission to the LX Gallery. It's a bit unusual shot for sure, but try to do it with any other (built-into-camera) metering system. After all, almost every scence you expose is imperfect for an averaging meter. They are not 18% grey throughout (or should it be 13%?) I often find myself having to set the exposure manually My LX also has an exp. compensation dial on the left side of the top plate. What about Yours? So I guess I don't know how to take advantage of the OTF metering in non-flash photography. AFAIK all TTL flash systems use OTF. Now, a spot meter which lets you hold the exposure, seems to make better sense. Like the Z?-5n. A different tool for different tasks. Gabor - 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 .
Re: Around the World With ....
Hi, The body would be an LX. It's simply great, I know it well and I trust it. Lenses: A 3.5/15, FA* 2/24, FA 1.9/43 Ltd, FA 1.8/77 Ltd, K 2.5/135, K 2.5/200 (I have none of them...) Gabor - 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 .
Re: A Harder Game
Hi, Which body and two lenses would you choose? LX, M 2/35, M 4/100 macro name the subject and/or locales you'd choose to photograph. A complete book on the region Zemplen in Hungary: landscapes, nature, people... Gabor - 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 .
Re: Standard lens - 35 mm vs 50mm
Hi, Just Curious! How many of you use 35 mm lens as a standard lens instead of 50 mm lens? Since I bought FA 35 f2.0, I have used this lens more often than FA 50 mm f1.7 lens. On my M42 Prakticas my favourite normal lens was the Zeiss 2.4/35, used it about twice as much as the Zeiss 1.8/50. Both were fantastic lenses. (Recently I sold all my M42 gear except the Zeiss 1.8/80.) On my Pentaxes, I had only a Chinon 2.8/35 and the Pentax M 1.4/50 was so much better that it wasn't a question. Last week I sold the Chinon and bought a Pentax M 2/35. It feels very well on my LX, so chances are that I'll be back to the 35mm normal soon... Gabor - 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 .
Re: different Tamrons 2.5/24mm?
Hi, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I came upon a nice condition Tamron 2.5/24mm BBAR in Pentax Adaptall mount. (...) I have the same... Was there any difference in quality among the different versions (or finishes) of Tamron's adaptall 2.5/24mm ? Only minor changes, it's the same lens. And what are your comments on quality of either? Mine performs very well. Some flare problems may occur, but BBAR is not SMC... I like the focal length a lot, it's one of my most often used lenses. Gabor - 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 .
Re: Close focusing wide angle lens?
Hi, Patrick White [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I've been thinking of getting a wide angle lens (28mm or less) I can use for macro shots. Anyone have any recommendations for what would be a good choice? Vivitar 2.8/28 macro and 2.8/24 macro are good ones. I have the 28, it has only an 1:5 ratio on its own, but can be used well with tubes. It seems to be very well corrected for close distances, no aberrations or distortion, has flat field... And they're cheap! Gabor - 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 .
Re:M 100 f4 Macro
Hi, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Dear members. I just want to know the max. magn of this lens. It's 1:2 or 1:1 ? It's 1:2. It has a nice aspect ratio scale on it. It works well on bellows, tubes, etc., so the 1:2 is only a limit of the mechanics, not the optics. Opinions in performance? My favourite Pentax lens! Extremely sharp, good SMC, well built, compact PS: I already bought it, and it's in its way to me, but I would like t- o know your opinions on it. Just in time! ;-) Relax, it's a great lens! I'm sure you'll enjoy it! Gabor - 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 .
Re: Jupiter 85mm f2
Hi, Juan J. Buhler" [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I've been looking for a cheap ~85mm lens. Does anyone has experience with the Jupiter-9? It's 85mm f2, originally a copy of a Zeiss design. The Leica SM version has good reviews. Not too sharp, but good for portraits, or available light people photography. (I've used mine for weddings at f4 as well.) When stopped down it gets definitely sharper, one of my friends uses his one for macro work. Bokeh is very nice, thank to the close to circular (15 blades?) diaphragm. Compact, well built lens.49mm filters. The non- or single coated ones may have some flare problems. Recently I sold mine and got a Zeiss Pancolar 1.8/80 instead, which is much better opically, especially wide open. I've seen this lens on M42 mount. Does anyone know if a K-mount version exists? I haven't heard of one... Gabor - 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 .
Re: Zenit SLRs
Hi, Robert Harris [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I started with a Zenit E about 13 years ago, then upgraded to a Zenit 12XP, then came a Zenit 19. I would add that in my experience the newer a Zenit is, the less reliable it is. I guess I am lucky -- I have an old reliable Zenit E sitting in a closet, which I have never used. (My wife used it for years, though, in Russia. ) Perhaps I will give it a try if I can figure out how it works, and am prepared to carry it -- it is built like a tank, but weighs a lot.. It's pretty simple IMO. Have a good time exploring it! If you have any questions, feel free to comtact me off-list as well. Any comment on the lens it came with? Helios 58mm, f2. I didn't like it at all. It wasn't sharp at all... Replace it with a cheap russian Mir 2.8/37 or a Zeiss Tessar 2.8/50, or a Takumar if you plan to use it for taking pictures as well... Please note that Zenit E uses manual diaphragm lenses. Gabor - 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 .
RE: Fish eye lens
Hi, "Cyril MARION" [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I'm seeking a fish-eye to shoot high-quality panormas. I didn't find a fisheye too useful for panorama shots because of the heavy distortion. Fisheyes are special effect lenses IMO. it has a f/2.8 aperture vs f/4 It doesn't matter on a fisheye too much... Is it too early to ask how does the ZENITAR behaves on the 2nd hand market ? Here in Hungary, I could sell mine for the price I paid for it or a bit less. (I bought it new, with 1 year warranty.) Perhaps after 1 year and a couple of shoots the lens gets trouble ? Didn't noticed any yet. (OK, only 10 months.) Gabor - 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 .
Re: AE vs A
Hi, petit miam [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I have a Tamron manual zoom lens (?80-210) with Pentax K adapter. I would like to have it working on my MZ-30. But so far, no luck. My MZ-30 requires an "A" position on the aperture ring, but the lens only has "AE". Are these equivalent? Any ideas to get it to work? Or am I just s**t (no, not a camera brand) out of luck? The Tamron's AE setting is the same as Pentax's A. I think the problem is with your K adapter, it should be a KA instead. Gabor - 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 .
Re: M 100/4.0 macro
Hi Mark, I have one of them, and it is my favourite short tele as well, not just a lens for macro work. Very sharp, small, well-built. (A typical M series lens, one could say.) Focuses down to 1:2 only, wich was not a problem to me. Works well on extension tubes and bellows too. Gabor - 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 .
