Originally posted by Docrwm I realize that there are people who worship that lens (well hopefully not literally) but I've looked at the pics and there are other options. I also don't get 40mm. 35mm is about the max on the K-x for indoor shooting as a Prime that I can see using - hence the 35/2.4 I own. I am fast coming to appreciate my M28 and the Tammy 10-24 for indoor shooting too but would like something faster than either. But a 40 that is SLOW and incredibly hard to use manually. Still not getting it but I am liking that Sigma 30/1.4.......nice focal length on the APS-C and its fast.....hmmm......
Well, you certainly don't have to get one. But I would posit that it is hard to "get" the love for a lens unless you try it yourself. Which is not to say that you should, I am sure the DA 35/2.4 does everything the DA40 would for you, but still, it is an odd argument to make.
40mm is wide enough on digital that you can get a candid shot of a child while sitting a few feet away, ready to intervene if they start doing something they shouldn't. It is wide enough to get a little background in a photo of a person if you are a few steps away, or to get 2 pr 3 people in. Quite similar FOV to 35mm, in fact. And while the DA 40 is not fast, I wouldn't call it SLOW, especially as it is very sharp and usable wide open. It produces excellent color and contrast. And it is tiny, so easy to carry around, light , and fast-focusing. I have used mine on a Super Program, and didn't find manual focusing to be too problematic.
So, I have answered your theoretical concerns with my experiences, which run contrary. I think the DA 40 is a great lens. I would be careful of that Sigma 30, though, I hear it is big and won't focus very closely. ;-)
And yes, since this is a thread about LBA, I will admit that I have an FA43 as well.