In a message dated 00-03-04 20:07:12 EST, you write:
> Phoenix 100mm-500mmf5.6(OM)(Highly Rated)(Boxed/New/U.S.A. Warranty)
> $339
>
> Samyang 18mm-28mmf4.0(OM) (Highly Rated)
> (Boxed/New/U.S.A. Warranty) $149
>
>
> Sun 38mm-90mmf3.5(F3.5 Throughout) Macro(OM)(Mint-) $25
>
Of the 100-500 zooms, I think the Cosina was the highest rated, next came the
Vivitar Series one and then a Samyang. I suspect that the Vivitar Series one
is the same as the Phoenix. This lens is very sharp at the 100mm end, has
comparable sharpness to the Zuiko 300/4.5 when stopped down to f8 or f11 and
has difficulties at the long end of 500mm, just like most long range zooms.
In addition to the sharpness/contrast problems at 500mm there are also many
technique problems as well. I was able to get occassional sharp 8x10s but
this was a rarity. As any 500mm lens you probably need a heavy duty Gitzo
and an Arca B1 to get the most out of this lens.
The Samyang 18-28 was not as highly rated by Popular Photo as the
Vivitar/Cosina/Phoenix/Soligor 19-35. As the prices are about the same, I
would go with the Vivitar/Cosina/Phoenix/Soligor model.
Warren
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