DA*50-135 and extension tubes

I'm seriously considering the DA*50-135...
I've managed to hold back the LBA for a couple of years (with a minor blip for the DA17-70 on cash back ) but this one is burning a hole in my pocket...

I have the smc F 100mm/2.8 macro. Of course it is astonishingly sharp and a joy to use. However, it doesn't get used a lot for macro. It gets used more for low light work (hence the desire for the more flexible 50-135). Has anyone used the 50-135 with extension tubes for macro work?

Flat field etc isn't a huge concern TBH - it's mainly how it performs for the odd bit of flower & plant work I do.

Of course, if this turns out as a "good idea", then there'll be the 100mm macro up for grabs later

Thanks!
Matt

And a cracking lens it is too.

It's hard to predict the begaviour of a zoom on extension tubes. They aren't designed for that and the results could be dire, or could be good.

Could you not try one out Matt? So SRS offer a 7 day return?

I should think it will be very good.
I have used my Sigma 70-200mm f2.8 with a 35mm tube and my F* 300mm f4.5 with a full set and have been pretty impressed. Enough to warrant not carrying a macro with me most of the time.

John - have you tried it?? Unfortunately when I had a chance to try the DA* lenses I opted for trying the 31 & 77 Ltd instead
I might give Chris a ring

Matt

My extension tubes are manual so I cannot test with a lens without an apature ring. I have used it with a close-up lens but got better results with my Sigma 18-200. This was mainly because of the closer focusing ability of the Sigma.

However, you have got me thinking. If I could find auto extension tubes that have all the contacts, then I would be very interested in thoughs here too.

I have been considering a Macro lens and have been impressed with the close focussing ability of the DA* 16-50mm!

Forgot there was no aperture ring on DA kit (too used to my old lenses)

Can give the A contact tubes a go on my DA* 16-50mm though if you want.

Matt - no I haven't had the opportunity yet, but if I needed to I think I'd approach Chris first to see how he could help.

Let us know how it goes!

Mike - I knew there was no aperture ring. Thankfully I have Triplus tubes with full contacts
John - will let you know what happens!

It's interesting that with the DA17-70 the Tamron 70-200/2.8 looks a better match. However, the sheer weight and size of the beast (though not as much as the Sigma) really puts me off. Even the 50-135 is a touch on the big side - but discrete enough to get away with I reckon
Obviously the longer reach between 135 and 200 would be nice... but not at that cost in size! The Tamron with hood is certainly "bazooka" like for handheld!

Matt

I presumed so, I was refering to me.

I did do it about a year ago before I got my macro. Can't remeber too much about it, but I think I was very pleased with the results, and I seem to remember using the zoom ring for focussing!

If you're coming to the meet in 2 weeks, I'll be there on the Sunday to have a play if you want!

Matt if I get time this afternoon I will do a couple of tests.

I have been playing lately with my Sigma 180mm on a set of bellows K

Worth a picture all on it's own I would say

Thanks guys Bit the bullet and called Chris.
I should know Thu/Fri how it works
(I'll report back!)
Matt

Right, just had a play.

I have the Jessops Auto Tubes with all 7 contacts, put all 3 on, then the 50-135. The camera doesn't 'like' it, all the electrics go a bit funny!

Couldn't change the flash to wireless mode because as soon as I hit the FN button the display flashes for half a second and goes off. A quick press and twist of the whole lot, soon lets me.

Took the following shot at F11, in AV mode, and the flash time in the top lcd constantly, repeatedly, changes between 125 & 180. Takes the shot fine though.

Won't enable live view.

You effectively have 2 focus controls! The zoom ring is a 'rough' focus, the focus ring is a 'fine' focus

Overall, it does the job fine, but my setup definately has its 'quirks'

Anyways, here's the photo, as shot in JPEG, just reduced in size, no crop.

And it looks a little like this!