I don't think there is a difference. Pentax simply decided that Super-Multi-Coated was a bit of a mouthful, and shortened it to SMC.

G

If you're not around, you pick it up at the PO, or have it delivered to work.

SDND includes both insurance and POD, which in my view are essential for any item that is worth a bit of money.

However, I appreciate that others may feel these are unnecessary luxuries, just as some are happy with margarine, whilst others insist on butter.

George

Why are you selling, as a matter of interest? You need two to be able to use wireless on the DS.

Incidentally, on a relatively expensive item like this, many people would consider RM Special Delivery Next Day to be the best despatch method as it includes insurance.

George

Back in 1974, when the prices of Pentax lenses were astronomical, there was merit (financially at least) in looking for alternatives.

Nowadays, there is no reason at all not to buy proper Pentax lenses of the period, which will invariably be 1000 times better than the alternatives you mention.

The last lenses, with the best coating, were the SMC Takumars and the Super-Multi-Coated Takumars. However, earlier lenses like the Super-Takumars are also very good. There are plenty of 28mm, 35mm, and 135mm Takumars around, and some 105mms.

The one exception I would mention, is the early Vivitar Series One lenses, which were of very high quality, but I can't remember if they were available in screw-mount.

Ebay is the place to find lenses, though there are alternatives such as KEH in the US.

George

The only answer is for you to experiment and find out what works for you. My guess is that any modern camera will do better than "Sunny 16".

Personally, I tend to use the camera's meter, but adjust the setting in difficult conditions.

George

There's a big difference between K and M lenses, and the latest AF lenses.

The biggest difference is that the focussing mechanism on autofocus lenses has to be very easy to operate, so as to minimise the size and battery consumption of the AF motor. Gone is the heavily greased helicoid, which felt so smooth on the older lenses.

The use of plastics also gives a completely different feel, and, as people inevitably associate lightness with flimsiness, the newer lenses feel less solid.

How long they will last is anyone's guess. I suspect that advances in sensor technology will allow the use of smaller sensors, and therefore smaller lenses, so the K series may become obsolete. I'm hanging on to my Auto 110.

G

Had you considered step-up/down rings? With the smaller sensor on the DS you can probably use the 55mm filter on a 62mm lens without vignetting. I can use a 49mm on my 58mm FA 1:2.8 100mm macro.

There's judicious, and then there's judicious!

Take great care!

G

It sounds "iffy". It is possible that the threads are crossed, or that there is dirt in them, and that this is preventing the plug from going all the way home. A little bit of judiciously applied force might help.

G

Have a look at the "Troubleshooter" section.

G