My favourite 'all-purpose' prime on film was my M 40/2.8 pancake, although a little too small for comfort really. On digital, it is an M 28/2.8 which gives a similar field of view. The lens I use most is the DA 17-70 which feels perfectly matched to my K-5.

All of my primes are relatively cheap manual focus ones I've collected over time or bought used (like my F 50/1.7). I looked at the 15mm & 21mm primes recently, although I'd really like either (or both!), I doubt I'd use them enough to justify the expense (I already have a MF 35/3.5 so I didn't look at the 35mm).

I meant better control of DoF rather than maximising it, so the ability to reduce it if you want to. If you can stand closer to the subject, then a 50mm at f/1.4 on APS-C might give you similar framing & DoF to an 85mm at f/1.4 on FF, but you might not be able to stand closer.

Obviously if you want to maximise DoF you may need smaller apertures/longer exposures/faster ISOs/brighter lighting, it just means you have to balance these against the image you're looking for.

The lenses shouldn't really be a problem. There are enough F, FA & FA Ltds out there and if Pentax aren't able to provide a full range there are enough independents who would be able to fill the gaps - full frame Pentax lenses aren't rocket science.

The advantages for me are better wide-angle options and better control of depth of field. Also many of the current lenses work better for me on FF (i.e. 35mm, 40/43mm & 50mm) than they do on APS-C.

Whether I'd be inclined to add a (presumably expensive) FF to my K-5 is another question, it depends on the cost. Then again I have a bagful of K, M, A, F & FA lenses (plus independents) ready to use.

I bought mine about 20yrs ago, excellent lens, the only draw-back being the focus ring is a little small and under-damped when focusing manually - no more so than other AF lenses though.

Cheers smc,

I've read the BJP description (which seemed to imply a fixed 28mm lens equivalent) and the dpreview 'pre-view' which mentioned a 28-xxx zoom.

I'm considering a camera of that type for when the K-5 (and extras) is too bulky and initially liked the look of it. My big problem is the lack of a viewfinder, makes it very difficult for me to get enthusiastic about it. It might not be necessary with the titling screen etc... but I just can't see me being comfortable without one.

I do like the basic design, size (as I envisage it anyway), logo and description of the build ethos though. I'll definitely be having a look at one when available.

John.

I started replying to this thread but it became a rantfest...but to summarise:

Make sure your technique is absolutely nailed before worrying about your gear (unless your bank balance is such that it doesn't matter).

Bump

Bump... any offers?

John.

Bump again... any offers?

John.

Hi All,

After a considerable absence I read about the MX-1 in BJP and decided to check back in.

Also with Winter on it's way out, I'm more inclined to get the K-5 out.

Regards,

John.