Re: New Pentax-D FA Macro at Adorama . . .

[David Nelson]

They probably wanted to bring out some primes, preferably with a D in 
the name (gotta look good today by having a range of lenses with this 
'feature'), but without spending too much effort on them. The FA 50 and 
100 macros, though very nice lenses optically, aren't great from a 
usability perspective (small focus rings, focus clamps that come loose, 
somewhat large and heavy). So hey - without too much effort (revise 
these lenses without worrying about the optics) you've got a couple of 
snazzy new lenses on your hands and a new press release with the word 
PENTAX in it.
In the new DFA versions, large focus ring and QSF are good features, and 
they may also have improved the focus clamp. They might have recognised 
that these lenses in particular could be made a lot lighter and smaller.
Pentax is probably devoting a fair few design resources into coming up 
with new cheapie zooms (consumers are crying out for a 50-200mm).
Keep crying out for a nice fast normal lens - they might get to catering 
for the serious shooters one day, but remember pentax has limited 
resources and the market drives this biz.
I realise I'm being a bit of a dick, but in all seriousness, they have 
only improved great lenses. I've gotta say I'm feeling very tempted by 
these offerings.

David