50mm f1.7 ??

I've heard the PK-A 50mm f1.7 is a great lens, correct !?

What about the PK-M version ? IQ as good ??

So far as I know all of them are good but with the A (or later series) you get auto aperture meaning that you can use most of the function of your DSLR. Without that you would only have Av and M mode if I'm correct.

I use both (sample shot from the M here) and don't see any difference in IQ.

Watch somebody prove me wrong now!

The quality of both M and A series 1.7 50mm is excellent.

The A will allow you full control of aperture from the camera. The M series will not. You will have to use manual exposure mode and stop-down metering with an M lens, Av mode will not give you aperture control on the M series.

The optical formula is the same now as it was for the M lenses but, as pointed out, the A series or later give you better functionality with DSLR bodies.

The beauty of the M lens is doing everything the old fashioned way.

In other words you have to set and check things manually, just like a Spotmatic!

...and this one was taken with the A wide open.

So take your pick.

EDIT; I forgot to say both are straight from the camera, no PS or fiddling of any kind.

As others have mentioned there's nothing between them in terms of image quality, so if you can live with the slower operation then you won't lose out with an M50.

What hasn't been mentioned (yet it's something I find important) is that the M series lenses - rightly or wrongly - just give the impression of higher quality build than the A series ones. They're more compact, less plasticky and just feel right somehow.

Thanks for that just bought one (M), as I've been testing my lenses for definition (center and edge) and I have to say It's crap (DA18-55 & DA50-200) so I need something to compare to Also checked my F35-80 and that's even worse !!

Very few lenses compare well with a good 50mm, so don't be surprised if your zooms aren't as good.

The question is, are they good enough for the use you make of them?

G

That is indeed the question George, and after this afternoons test I wonder. These are bottom of the range zooms mind and they'll have to do for a while, I don't have the money to do otherwise, but when I can I will upgrade to better glass. In the mean time I need to see for myself what good is and hopefully this f1.7 will help

Yes, a 50mm is a good standard by which to judge other lenses. If you find anything that's better, you know it's a keeper!

Your bank manager will probably know, too.

G

The 50mm 1.7 M can be picked up at some very good prices I paid £10 for mine and it's prpbably the sharpest lens in my bag.
Ian
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