At 12:34 5/27/03, you wrote:
Hi Zuiks:
A lister on the Leica list commented that he had purchased a Leica R 6.2,
and was very happy with the zoom lenses he had purchased. He noted that his
other system was OM, and "OM has only one decent zoom". I assume that this
was a reference to the 35~80 f/2.8.
Any other nominees for stellar zoom? To make this less impossible, let's
limit it to the "wide to short tele" category.
The Tamron 35-105/2.8 Adaptall II mount:
(Not to be confused with the current 28-105/2.8)
Qualifies for "Big Bang for the Buck" category when compared to the Zuiko
35-80. Got rave reviews . . . not just in the magazines, but from users
also. A constant aperture one-touch, which is its downside as the very
heavy glass tends to cause it to extend on its own if it's held vertically
for long periods (it will hold position for a while). Other than that,
it's very smooth operating focus ring and zoom extension. I just bought
one and have run perhaps a dozen rolls through it. Every bit as good as
the Zuiko 35-105/3.5~4.5 in contrast and apparent sharpness . . . but
bigger and heavier. Be aware that when used wide open at its long end and
at closer range (about 5-6 feet) you can end up with depth of field that is
only a few inches at best! Has a solid feel to it.
Zuiko 35-105/3.5~4.5:
Plenty has already been said about this lens. Has a marvelous "close-up"
feature I wish the Tamron had . . . works identically to a variable
extension tube with a short-throw helical. Surprisingly magnificent
performer for all the elements and groups. Only wish it were a stop faster
as the viewfinder focusing aids black out in low light and it's harder to
focus at the short end than the faster Tamron . . . sometimes requires
going long, focusing and then pulling back. Not as heavy as the Tamron,
but larger and heavier than all the other Zuikos in its focal length range.
-- John
I've only taken a few shots with my new Zuiko 35~70 /f4, but it looks
promising. The Tamron 35~70 f/3.5 is a dandy, and also has a macro
capability. The Tokina 28~70 also has macro, but is a bit "plastic" for my
taste. The Kiron 28~105 is a stellar lens. If only it were faster and
lighter...
Bill Stanke
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