Ramesh, Pentax SMC coating is a definite asset in a wide angle.
The Sigma Super Wide II 24/2.8 has many fans. They praise the resolution and contrast while cautioning about the Sigma's cheaper construction and less-than-ideal flare control. It tied with Canon for first place on On Olle Bjernulf’s website comparing lenses. And it outscored the Pentax 24/2F and Tamron 24/2.5 in Photodo's MTF measurements. But we won't get into that. The Pentax 24/2.8A and K lenses have an almost religious following for their outstanding contrast, color, and resolution. If you can live without the "A" setting, for $30 to $50 more than a new Sigma I'd urge you to seek out a used Pentax SMC 24/2.8K. I'm partial to this choice, having voted it my favorite lens. For a sound choice below $100 U.S., consider a used Vivitar 24/2.8 (52mm filter). Introduced in the 1980s, it's available in PKA mount. The multicoated lens uses is 7 elements in 7 groups and can focus as close as 190 mm (7.5 in.) for a 1:5 magnification. It measures 64mm long and 41 mm in diameter. Weight, according to Photodo, is 190 g--a few grams less than the Pentax 24/2.8K, but less than the 24/2.8A or the Sigma. Is the Vivitar still available new? Boz Dimitrov wrote in 1997: "If [you will not be using] the 24mm very seriously, people tell me the Vivitar 24mm 2.8 is quite good, especially for the money." Another list member, Kelvin, had this to say: "I just got back my first results from my Vivitar 24/2.8 and must say I'm pleased with it.... It’s a good lens. It’s quite sharp when stopped down. Haven’t used it wide open." Ramesh Kumar_C <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: I am planning to get 24mm lens. I would like it take 52mm filters since I already have couple of 52mm filters. ... There is Sigma 24mm/2.8 and is around 190USD. - 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 .
