[Takumar55]

Just received my DFA 100mm 2.8 WR Macro from Adorama. There is noticeable noise (audible) when manual focusing - sort of like hearing the gears turning inside.

This is only my second modern K-mount lens, behind the 18-55 kit lens. The kit lens has a little noise, too, but not as loud.

Just wondering if this is normal and what level of sound should be expected. Thanks!

[Adam]

There will be a little bit of noise, but because the lens has quick-shift manual focusing, you shouldn't worry about it. If there's significant friction, though, then there might be something wrong with the lens.

[Takumar55]

Hm.. It doesn't seem like it's binding. But it is noticeably loud. I think I'll try it out on the camera and see how it feels.

[Rondec]

I don't really hear much when I turn my DFA 100 macro. Not sure about a different copy. n=1.

[Takumar55]

Thanks to both of you.

Mine definitely has noise in manual; but it is overwhelmed by a large margin by the autofocus. And it does seem to turn smoothly when I manual focus.

And wow! Huge upgrade from the kit lens. I feel like I'm finally getting what I expected from my K-30. What a great lens.

[Takumar55]

I finally found this thread that describes exactly the sound I am getting.

https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/136463-questio...ocus-ring.html

He also posted this video with the sounds (many thanks for that!). http://www.flickr.com/photos/morningthief581/5520072335/

It seems like the consensus here and on that thread is that this is normal. If anyone disagrees, I'd be grateful to hear whether I should exchange the lens.

Also, is there a place here to post lens or camera "quirks" like this, so that newbies like myself can determine whether something is normal or not?