> I've once read (in a Pentax booklet) that M* means "compact lens" > - not a special high quality etc.., just i lightwieght/small one. > Like the SMC-M* 4.0/300mm that I own. Any comments?
Jens: Don't confuse the M designation given to the Pentax lenses of the late 70's and early 80's, which were designed to be more compact that the K lenses that preceded them, with the M* (M-star) (and A*, F*, FA*) lenses which have variously been defined by Pentax as those that: 1. are generally "premium" lenses, sold at premium prices. 2. ~might~ ~perhaps~ be assembled and tested more carefully in small batches. 3. ~might~ sometimes use low-dispersion and/or high refractive index glass. Pentax has been just a bit vague and has not been totally consistent in the use of the Star designation, but some typical statements (over time) from Pentax are as follows: "The M* and A* lenses are a new generation of telephoto lens, among the most compact on the market, and they incorporate low-dispersion glass to reduce chromatic aberration." "A* = Called A-star. High-performance, compact lens using special glass elements." "A*/F* = Called A-star or F-star. High-performance, compact lens using special glass elements." Fred
