Latest Review Posted | Super-Takumar 50mm F1.4 (8-element variant) Yes, this is a great lens. Yes, the vast majority of users will love it.
Now that that's out of the way, let's dispel some myths:
1) Myth #1: The image quality is substantially better than the 7-element version.
The truth: I have probably owned or handled hundreds of 50mm tak 1.4s over the years. And the truth is, the difference in image quality between this and the 7 element Super Tak is vanishingly small. There's maybe a bit more smoothness in the bokeh, but this version is certainly less sharp wide open - although some people like that effect. By the time you compare it to the SMC, any advantages the 8 element has are outweighed by improved contrast and flare resistance.
I've yet to see a lens shoot-out putting this lens at the top that has been done blind, and I'd wager that given such conditions, 9 out of 10 users wouldn't be able to consistently differentiate this lens from a de-yellowed sample of the 7 element version.
2) Myth #2: The build quality is substantially better in this version.
The truth: I am familiar with all versions of this lens, inside and out (literally, as I've CLA'ed several versions of them). Aside from the additional element, the design and build of the 8 element version is virtually identical to those of the 7 element Super Tak. In fact, ALL Super Tak primes and most SMCs share the same fantastic build quality. I suspect that those who are blown away by the fit and finish are those for whom this is their first vintage Tak, and the others a... |