I think for most subjects the more blurry(fig3, also sometimes called butery, smooth, silky) the OOF areas the better the effect on the image.
However it allways depends on the subject. Sometimes better defined edges in the bokeh work better. Its a matter of the subject and of taste.

What one should do is identify the primary subjects on which one wants to use the lens and determine what type of bokeh one prefers for that subject.

Tipically the objective of using a small depth of field is to lessen the impact of other elements and enhance that of the subject in focus. To that effect, larger apertures with smooth transitions between shapes in the OOF region is desirable.
However on might want a certain character to the opposite region (to the one in focus), we dont want the background to be discernible, but it has a definate role to play, a certain impact is desired. To this effect very smooth transitions might not work, lenses with defined edges might give a nice brush like effect which works better.

Some examples:
Bad bokeh:


I like the brush like effect, but here its too distracting.


Good bokeh


I like the little pale white balls decorating the background.



Because the rest of the plants are soo poorly defined, the bee and flower really stick ou.



A better defined background here works best, and the harder edges help IMO.
Sorry don't have bad examples of smooth bokeh, but here it wouldn't work for example...

I'd recommend the DA 55-300mm. Its a very good lens, and sharper at 300mm than the 70-300mm options.

There is also a Sigma 100-300mm F.5-6.7mm on ebay right now that seems nice

Its very likely that ffordes replaced the foams, no?
I've got one too and its a great camera.
Not all MXs can do MLU, but mine does. I just force my index finger against my thumb (kinda like doing the ok signal the divers use), this makes a spring like action, when you release the thumb, the index hits the shutter button at very high speed, locking it up.

Congrats Dan, and don't despair you'll always have your pictures to remember of the days when you were free.

Seriously, I hope that warm fuzzy feeling lasts forever.

I'll drop by and check with them. It would be really cool. Because you have to pay to enter I assumed then you could take pictures, its the usual deal on most of the places I've been to.

I believe these would be the original types for the M version lenses.
But you should find them cheaper than that auction.

Since its so close to home, I'll be sure to take all my humble kit, so I can share with you guys.
Hope to see many of you there.

I got a Sigma Pantel 135mm M42 for the sole purpose of trying out the F64...

Main rivals of the K-7: 500D and D5000?
: Someone care to enlighten me?

Rationalise, I could use that... I grab anything that seems a good price (more or less)
Thats why I have loads of lenses and no 17-70mm yet...

I've just nailed a CZJ 135mm F3.5 and a Super Tak f3.5, both well worn, but at a good price and I'll finally be able to compare these lenses.

Actually I might do a 135mm battle soon.