I highly recommend the 135/2.8 Zuiko MC. EX+ to LN- "MC" ones go for about
$150-170 USD depending on where you buy it. (Avg. eBay is $112, but
includes all conditions.) They are not hard to find. I found mine to be a
very fine lens. Just got some Kodachrome 64 back last Friday and projected
them on a screen. Those shot with the 135/2.8 Zuiko MC demonstrated very
high detail; more than I expected and produces nice bokeh thus far (not
thoroughly tested for it). The f/2.8 does have a 55mm ring though (you
mentioned using a reversing ring with standard lens for macros).
If you cannot afford the f/2.8 then consider the f/3.5 Zuiko which goes for
under $100. The f/3.5 has a 49mm ring and is easily found for under $100 USD.
An alternative to using a reversing ring for macros is extension tubes with
the 135mm and/or your 50mm . . . if they don't slow the lens down too much
and still get enough magnification for you. Oly auto tubes are expensive
($50+ each used). A complete set of all three Vivitar auto tubes can be
had for approx. $30-50 if you are patient in looking (the set is $100 new).
The three Vivitar tubes stacked together extend 68mm (12, 20, and 36).
Build quality on the Vivitar auto tubes is a little less than the Oly tubes
but still decent (I have a set of them plus an Oly 7mm auto tube).
I have seen numerous examples of the ubiquitous Vivitar f/2.8 and was not
impressed with its build compared to a Zuiko. Never used the Vivitar so
the comments are based on simply handling several of them.
Recommend saving up if you need to and getting a good one to begin with.
If you are a true Zuikoholic, you just won't be happy until you do have a
good one. You'll spend time scheming how to justify (or sneak in) the lens
upgrade instead of shooting photographs and scheming how to get the next
focal length you want.
-- John
At 02:05 6/14/00 , Evan wrote:
>I am looking for a 135mm lens to compliment my 50mm and my 28mm. I'm also
>curious about using it coupled with the 50mm for doing macro work. Ideally,
>I would love to get a Zuiko model, but there are other much less expensive
>options. Does anyone have experience with the Vivitar f2.8 lens? At $20, it
>seems like too good to be true. There is also a Tamron f2.8 up on ebay. Any
>input on what I should buy, and if I should just wait for a Zuiko to come my
>way, would be appreciated!
>Thanks,
>Evan
>
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