Originally posted by RpM Hello all,
I am trying to decide between the above mentioned lenses and am looking for user feedback/experience. I currently own the 77 (tho haven't honestly used it too much). I have really wanted a weather sealed lens to go with my K-30 and love images I have seen from the 50-135. I have the chance to get a used one at a good price. Unfortunately I only have the funds for one of those lenses and to get the zoom I would have to sell my 77. My question to those of you who maybe have both or have gone thru something similar. Will I miss the 77? I know it's a subjective thing but will the iq from the 50-135 be good enough to not miss the 77? I also own the 31 and an older A50 1.7 lens so i am looking for something on the longer end. Any feedback that those out there with these lenses could provide would be greatly appreciated.
Rick
I have a DA 70 and a DA* 50-135, so I would like to weigh in on this as the DA 70 is very very similar to the FA 77.
I acquired the DA 70 first, and then the 50-135 shortly after. I've barely used the DA 70 since, but I use the 50-135 all the time. It's such a great lens! The images it makes are outstanding at all apertures, just as good as what can be had from the DA 70. The range is great, and perfectly compliments a wide-normal zoom. The DA 70 is currently on my chopping block of lenses to be sold.
That being said, it's going to depend on your usage. If you plan on using this for events, weddings, studio work, etc. then the size and weight (already reasonable for its class) shouldn't matter. However, if you are planning on traveling or going on long hikes etc. then the smaller prime might be a better choice.
I know there are many proud Pentax warriors who love to go all shock trooper style and carry their full arsenal of lenses with them no matter where they're going or what they're doing. But I've taken the DA* 50-135 on a couple of overnight snowshoe/hiking trips now, and its size gets annoying after a while, even for a sprightly young man of healthy breeding age such as myself.
So unless you plan on jetsetting or going on some human-powered trek soon, I would definitely go for the DA* 50-135. It's amazing!