Could be to do with the power output required for different focal lengths. If you are shooting wide you need more power as it has less range. This increases recycle times and you only get one flash every 3-5 seconds rather than 3-5 per second.

Not all get tested, too many coming out of the factory. All testing is done by random sampling otherwise cost and time is way too high. It is the same with any manufacturing plant, service or anything else.

I think someone on dpreview already came up with that one

I've only used the DA* 16-50 out those and it may not have sharp corners at f2.8 but stopped down to f5.6-8 it is a lot better. Centre sharpness is very good all the time. Have to be careful with moire on the K10D.

I think the 16-45 is more evenly sharp across the frame though.

I really like the images produced by the K-r. The weaker AA filter makes a difference to fine detail and the image quality is excellent. I went for the K-5 though because of:

Magnesium alloy body
AF micro-adjustment
Weather sealing
High capacity battery
Additional controls
Slightly better noise control
2 stop better dynamic-range

Put either in the hands of a capable photographer and you are extremely unlikely to be able to tell the difference.

Tripod, bulb mode, stopped down aperture to f11. Open as they launch, close as they reach peak. I get a very high keeper rate like that.

It works very well. I don't have any examples available now (on mobile) but can post some tomorrow.

VR, OS and IS found in lenses from other manufacturers also use additional power. You need to have powered moving parts for it to work.

I recently consolidated my lenses as well. I got rid of the DA18-55, DA50-200 and Tamron 70-300.

Lenses now stand at:

DA* 16-50mm f/2.8 - Main lens 1.
DA* 50-135mm f/2.8 - Main lens 2.
DA 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 - Backup lens should anything happen to the two above.
DA* 300mm f/4 - Hardly ever part of my kit unless I am going wildlife shooting.
Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Macro - Want to replace with DA 100mm f/2.8 WR Macro to have a fully WR lens selection.

I rarely carry more than 4 lenses and don't really use my A series lenses other than with film.

I would like a DA10-17 or DA12-24 as I am finding that I do occasionally need something wider than 16mm. It is only for a very small number of shots and would probably get about as much use as the 300. The only thing I don't like about those two lenses is lack of WR and SDM.

Only is if she is in A* as new condition with box and accessories.

Good, I was beginning to get tempted