i think, a much cooler solution would be to
- drastically reduce the film-to-flange distance (kinda like what
oly did)
- sell a body adapter "new K"->K with the linkages and all, to be
able to use
the old lenses
- sell a T/S "new K"->K adapter
- plus adapters to all other lens manufacturers.
I never really thought about it, but it makes a lot of sense.
Having a smaller registration distance would allow for a simple
"through" adapter for any K-mount lens to work correctly. Removing
the adapter would be a "negative macro tube" so it would affect the
focus distance, but the image cone would be smaller. I've quite
ignorant on optical lens design so I don't know what else it would
screw up, but it sounds pretty interesting. Lots more potential to
use other manufacturer's lenses.
Lots of problems.
- How do you drive the older lenses mechanical linkages?
- More optics in the path means performance degradation.
- Reduced room for an adequate mirror, etc with the "new K" standard
lenses.
As I said before, I don't see the problem. An optical "wide
converter" is a bad idea. No, you won't get old and cheap lenses ...
what you really need is likely one-two lenses of shorter focal length
compared to what you already have in older K mount lenses, optimized
for the digital sensor characteristics and format.
Unless you just revel in being obstinate about it, there's not much
to argue about. There's no better, realistic solution. DSLRs with the
current sensor are simply a different format and require lenses
designed for them. Pentax has done a fantastic job of compatibility
with the existing lens line as it is.
Godfrey
