Originally posted by demp10 One thing that is mandatory for all mirror lenses to work their best, is to use a long hood to improve contrast. There is a very noticeable difference.
+10 Thanks for that. Another tip is to work with brightly lit subjects of low contrast.
I've owned the Spiratone Mini-tel 8/500 and Sigma Ultra-tel 8/500 (same as Spiratone Ultra-tel 8/500).
The Mini-tel was okay, not bad. The best feature is being so compact for a 500mm lens. It is half the length of the Sigma, though both weigh about the same.
The longer Sigma, having a more 'unfolded' light path, has better IQ. Much better than before I cleaned the haze from rear element group. Actually I cleaned all the elements -- these are real easy to work on, just don't touch the mirrors with anything other than a blast of air...
From what I've seen, the Tamron SP (both versions) has better IQ than the Sigma, but not by much. Again, the Tamron is much smaller, half the length, about the same size as the Mini-tel. Similar results from Vivitar mirror, and some of the Russians. If I were to buy another mirror lens (
) I will buy the Tamron SP, the first version. For now I'm happy with the Sigma. As happy as anyone can be with a mirror lens, I guess.