It's already been done. Check out Gary's lens tests for the 2 lenses
<http://members.aol.com/olympusom/lenstests/default.htm>. Gary is
careful to point out that only whole grade differences are valid in
comparing 2 lenses (except in a few paired tests). Applying that rule,
one can clearly conclude that the Tamron at 80mm is at least as good a
performer in both sharpness and contrast at every overlapping f-stop as
either of the 2 MC samples of the 85/2 that he tested. Based on the
consistency with which it outscores the 85/2, I suspect the Tamron is
slightly the better lens overall with the particular samples involved
and under the specific test conditions.
Walt started all this by suggesting the Tamron as an all-round solution
to the 85/2 vs. 100/2.8 (and to stir up a little action- satisfied
Walt?). The Tamron is certainly a great lens, but I would never think
of it for portrait work except in a fixed setup with a tripod. It's big
and heavy and has a completely different feel than either of those
small, light Zuikos, like carrying around a couple of extra bricks.
(Yes, Mike V., you CAN hand hold it. I guess I could, but I use a
monopod.). Wandering around pointing that thing at people in a casual
portrait situation would probably send some running in fright!
They are both great lenses, capable of exceptional image-making, but
quite different beasts. Why does one have to be best? How could one even
know? How about about tests at 1:10, 1:15,,,,1:100...infinity, all
duplicated for flare vs. non-flare light, low vs. high contrast subject,
hand held vs.sturdy support (particularly appropriate here), wth and
without teleconverters, extension tubes, etc., etc.....................
What a colossal waste of time!!!!!!!
Moose stepping down from soapbox
John Hudson wrote:
would anyone be prepared to put up their two bits and show conclusively that
the Tamron zoom is sharper than an 85/2 and under what conditions? My MC
85/2 is a stunning performer but to have an off brand zoom outperfom it
would be a real eye opener.
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