A vs. FA - 35mm and 50mm

[raybird]

Hi, this is my first post to the forum

I have the same question for both the 35mm f2 and 50mm 1.4:

On the 50mm - I have a "2nd chance" offer on ebay to purchase the SMC-A 1.4, along with a Super Program and 2 other zoom lenses (I think they are off brand, couldn't tell from the pics) and a case for $128 total ($145 with shipping.) From the pics they all appear in good shape. Assuming the 50 1.4 is indeed in good condition, I'd consider it a deal compared to $150 - $200 for the FA 50. Does anyone have an opinion, having used both lenses, whether the AF on the FA is worth the tradeoff over the better MF and build quality on the A?

On the 35mm - I found the 35 A f2 for a very good price on Craigslist ($125 for the 35, 50 A f2, and K1000.) It is in mint condition and I know it is worth alot more. I could probably break even by selling it and getting the FA 35mm f2. Again, is the AF capability worth losing the MF feel and solid build of the A?

Other than AF/MF and build, are there any other considerations for the A vs. FA decision on these 2 lenses? I'm using a K10D, which does have the smaller viewfinder, but I will be getting the magnifier and possibly the split focus screen (although I've read and followed some MF techniques that are actually quite helpful.) The inablility to "quick-shift" focus on the FA primes is my main hesitation to get them.

I'll also be getting the 50-135 2.8 when I can afford it, so my rational is, MF for the primes and AF for the zooms, best of both worlds maybe?

Thanks for any advice!

[cardinal43]

I don't have an answer for you, but as a close neighbor (northern VA), I wanted to welcome you to the forum.

I'm also interested in the answer(s) that you get as I am also interested in the 50mm.

[BBear]

Hi Ray,

Welcome onboard!

Regarding your questions, I had similar dilema buying the same lenses.



When shopping for the 50mm, I had the option to buy a brand new FA $200 or a used "A" version for $150. After seeing the buidl quality of the "A" lens, I chose it over the FA. Do I regret it? For funtional reasons yes... before starting my AF collection, I was used to MF... but then after some time doing AF you get lazy... so as of today I BARELY use my "A" 50 1.4. Now keep in mind, it is not solely because of the MF but because of the field of view. HINT: 35mm


After realizing 50mm was too long for my taste, I then went shopping for a 35mm. Same questions again: AF or MF? This time, I opted for the FA version and have not regreted: it is on the camera all the time, it is light, sharp and focus fairly fast. It'd be even better if had the quickshift for fast focusing adjustments.


Well, if you believe you'll be shooting in MF I'd say get the "A" 50mm because it is a SEXY piece of glass and highly built... but only if you will shoot MF. If not, get the FAs for both lenses and forget about built quality. As matter of fact, the FA 35 is llight BUT NOT CHEAPLY made.


I hope it helps you somehow,


BB

[raybird]

Hi BB, thanks for your detailed response!

As a follow up, how do you find the FAs for manual focus? If they come close to a "true" MF feel I might consider them more heavlily.

I have to say that after a few days with that shiny mint A 35 f2 on my K10D it is becoming harder and harder to take off.. even with that annoying hex bokeh

Nate

[k100d]

i had an A50 1.2 b/c i thought i loved MF. after using AF a lot more, i've stopped doing that. it already takes enough effort to AF properly.

if you like MF, the 'A' models are great and their build quality is quite a step up, but even the 'A' series feels cheap compared to the M or M42 Takumar models

[BBear]

Originally Posted by raybird

Hi BB, thanks for your detailed response!

As a follow up, how do you find the FAs for manual focus? If they come close to a "true" MF feel I might consider them more heavlily.

I have to say that after a few days with that shiny mint A 35 f2 on my K10D it is becoming harder and harder to take off.. even with that annoying hex bokeh

Nate

Nate, let me first clarify which versions I have: A 50 f/1.4 & FA 35 f/2

With that in mind, I could only comment on how it is to MF on the FA 35mm (never used the FA 50).

Now, to make things worse, I have only needed to MF on the FA 35 a VERY few times (mostly when it is dark then I preset the focus to a certain distance and hope for the best). I never had to MF in regular situations, because the AF has never let me down yet.

[Hapo]

I have and love the A35/2 - it is a great lens, both construction and optics. For that price, it's a steal. You could sell the 50mm and K1000 and just about break even. But, I'm a guy who prefers MF lenses, so take it for what it's worth (my camera comes off of MF mode about once every three months). Cheers!

[meszidik]

I would recommend checking local second hand stores. I just landed an A50/1.7 for $20!