Originally posted by abieleck
I think the new DA 50mm 1.8 will be a popular lens with new Pentax consumers who want to start a prime kit and those who want a more cost friendly option to the DA* 55, but with the FA 50mm 1.4 out there it doesn't make a ton of sense to me. the reviews and samples images will tell the story, but the 50mm 1.4 is the same type of construction, a bit faster, has FF abilities and can be found for a good price. I am fond of my 50 1.4, as it seems most others are. Just not sure Pentax would introduce a lens that seems a tad redundant....at least in my bag.
Both Canon and Nikon have "competing" 50s. A cheaper $100-$150 lens at f1.8, and the better quality f1.4 that's more like $350. Before the 35 2.4, what was the cheapest non-kit lens in the Pentax lineup? I think it might have been the 50 1.4 at roughly $350. The 40ltd is also around the same price.
For new DSLR owners, it's a pretty big leap of faith for your first lens purchase. Having the entry-level lenses available is a great way to get new users started and trigger their LBA for future sales.