What classic 70 200 manual focus should I look for for an LX

Johnyb3000 · 11-16-2013, 11:38 AM

What classic 70 200 manual focus should I look for for an LX?

**monochrome** · 11-16-2013, 12:08 PM

Vivitar Series 1 70~210/2.8~4 Macro ZOOM version 3. Get the one manufactured by Komine (first two serial number digits are 28). Many copies (but not all copies) of the Komine lens have "A" contacts which won't be useful with an LX, but even today it is a Cult Classic manual focus zoom. Take care to inquire about zoom creep. Many of these suffer from worn felts but tight zoom rings can be found. $125 - $175 EX with hard case.

Old Mark Roberts post.

Adam · 11-16-2013, 12:11 PM

Originally posted by Johnyb3000

What classic 70 200 manual focus should I look for for an LX?

Pentax has a nice and affordable A-series 70-210mm:

SMC Pentax-A 70-210mm F4 Reviews - A Zoom Lenses - Pentax Lens Reviews & Lens Database

elliott · 11-16-2013, 01:13 PM

Originally posted by monochrome

Vivitar Series 1 70~210/2.8~4 Macro ZOOM version 3. Get the one manufactured by Komine (first two serial number digits are 28). Many copies (but not all copies) of the Komine lens have "A" contacts which won't be useful with an LX, but even today it is a Cult Classic manual focus zoom. Take care to inquire about zoom creep. Many of these suffer from worn felts but tight zoom rings can be found. $125 - $175 EX with hard case.

Old Mark Roberts post.

I have one and like it a lot. Here is one perfect for the LX because the A pin is missing.
https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/24-photographic-equipment-sale/235225-sal...-3-komine.html

Stone G. · 11-16-2013, 03:53 PM

There are also the Tamron Adaptall-2 lenses to consider:

SP 70-200mm f/3.5, Model 19AH. See Adaptall-2.org: Tamron SP Adaptall-2 70-210mm F/3.5 Model 19AH

SP 80-200mm f/2.8 Model 30A: See Adaptall-2.org: Tamron SP Adaptall-2 80-200mm F/2.8 LD Model 30A

Both are great lenses but also somewhat rare/much sought after. I have the Model 30A and have only good things to say about it. You can find my own review here: Tamron SP80-200mm f/2.8LD Model 30A (Adaptall-2 system)

**monochrome** · 11-16-2013, 04:25 PM

The 19AH is actually a better lens than the Viv Series 1 for sharpness and natural color rendering (IMHO - I've had both). For an LX the user wouldn't need the adapter A either - a $75 cost advantage.

Further - the construction of the Tamron prevents zoom creep. It is just harder to find than the Vivitar and more expensive.

The Pentax Adam suggested is also a fine lens and probably the best value of the lot. I had one but returned it because of zoom creep (and never went to that camera store again - the salesman was a total jerk about it).

wombat2go · 11-16-2013, 04:39 PM

Back in the day, I really wanted the SMC Pentax -M zoom 80 ~ 200mm f/4.5
My old -M lens catalog here says it was 141.5mm long and only 555 gram.
"..ideal for ... quick action demands of wildlife.....on the spot news photography..... excellent for ... candid portraits."

I couldn't afford it and had to make do with a Tamron 70 ~ 210 which was a good one too.
I learned how to use it for kids shots wide open at 70mm to get isolated leafy green backgrounds in the garden - rather good.

snostorm · 11-16-2013, 05:54 PM

I can personally vouch for the A 70-210 f4 and Tamron SP 80-200 f2.8 as I use both frequently. The latter is about the only zoom whose IQ good enough to really stand up to use with TC, IMO -- considerably better than the more common Tokina 80-200 f2.8 SD MF zoom.

Early on in my Pentax DSLR experience (2K4-2K6) I was actively seeking, but never found a Series 1 Komine that I could justify buying. Their reputation is notable, and has stood up over time. Of course, after I gave up on getting one, they started becoming offered at reasonable prices much more often, but I just don't use the FL range enough to justify adding one to the collection.

The A 70-210 is probably the best bang for the buck. Traditionally, it's been very commonly offered, and priced consistently under other lenses with its spec.

Scott

Johnyb3000 · 11-16-2013, 09:19 PM

Originally posted by elliott

I have one and like it a lot. Here is one perfect for the LX because the A pin is missing.
https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/24-photographic-equipment-sale/235225-sal...-3-komine.html

I just sent a PM to this listing, thanks for the heads up!

Johnyb3000 · 11-16-2013, 09:21 PM

All of you are awesome and I thank you each for your ideas. I have the feeling that I am going to end up with more than one lens in this adventure. Thank you!

**Odinz** · 11-16-2013, 09:46 PM

I have the Tokina, the Vivitar (Ver 3), a Sigma 75-250, Sears 80-200 and the Pentax-A, and while it has been awhile, I used all but the Tokina on my old LX. While the Pentax is only F4 (constant), as some others have said, for my money it is probably the best of the lot balancing both price and performance, especially on digital. I have found that the Vivitar (and I had two for some reason) was a better lens on film than it is on digital, especially wide open, and back in the day I would usually either grab the Vivitar or the Pentax with the choice being based on the filter size of the lens, they were really that close.

When it comes to film to be quite honest I don't remember there being that much difference in the lenses because I shot and developed a lot of Tri-X and never 'pixel peeked" (except to the extent of a 16x20 print), even on Kodachrome (moot point now) the differences were small, although there was probably a slight difference in color rendition between them, but nothing glaring that I recall. I often kept track of exposure information when I shot but for some reason never kept track of the lens that I used and I don't think today I could tell which shot was taken with which lens. The Sears may have been a bit darker in the corners (and it said 'Sears' on it), the Vivitar may be a bit sharper in the mid focal ranges and the Pentax sharper up close. The main difference in the lenses was the way they handled "macro" modes, I think any of them would do just well as the other on the LX, just make sure you use a lens hood and any of them should be fine.

**dms** · 11-16-2013, 10:44 PM

I also suggest the VS1 70-210 mm Version 3. One of the sharpest lenses I own (comparable to the 50mm f/1.7 and 135mm f/2.5 K-SMC) based on usage (not testing). Partly so good because the visual contrast is high--so for me for theatre work it allows better/faster manual focusing. Also the handling (push-pull) works best for me!

m42man · 11-17-2013, 02:22 AM

I know it's not exactly what you're after, but could I suggest the Pentax M 75-150/4. OK, it hasn't quite the reach, but it's relatively compact and light, it has excellent IQ (and probably better flare resistance than Tamrons and Vivitars), and should be easy to find and cheap to buy.

**gofour3** · 11-18-2013, 12:38 PM

+3 for the Pentax A70-210/4.

Phil.

Lloydy · 11-18-2013, 12:51 PM

In order of personal preference - 1. the Komine Vivitar S1 70-210 / 2.8 - 4, it's a terrific lens. 2. I've just bought an old Tamron Adaptall BBAR Macro 85-210 / 4.5, and it's another superb lens. But not that common. 3. Tokina AT-X SD 80-200, it's fast and very good.
But I'd take the Vivitar every time, it just delivers!

11-16-2013, 11:38 AM	#1
Johnyb3000 Junior Member Join Date: May 2013 Location: Dillon Colorado Posts: 35	What classic 70 200 manual focus should I look for for an LX What classic 70 200 manual focus should I look for for an LX?

11-16-2013, 12:11 PM	#3
Adam Administrator Site Webmaster Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Arizona Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 51,593	Originally posted by Johnyb3000 What classic 70 200 manual focus should I look for for an LX? Pentax has a nice and affordable A-series 70-210mm: SMC Pentax-A 70-210mm F4 Reviews - A Zoom Lenses - Pentax Lens Reviews & Lens Database Adam PentaxForums.com Webmaster (Site Usage Guide \| Site Help \| My Photography) PentaxForums.com server and development costs are user-supported. You can help cover these costs by donating or purchasing one of our Pentax eBooks. Or, buy your photo gear from our affiliates, Adorama, B&H Photo, KEH, or Topaz Labs, and get FREE Marketplace access - click here to see how! Trusted Pentax retailers:

11-16-2013, 04:25 PM	#6
monochrome Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Working From Home Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 26,276	The 19AH is actually a better lens than the Viv Series 1 for sharpness and natural color rendering (IMHO - I've had both). For an LX the user wouldn't need the adapter A either - a $75 cost advantage. Further - the construction of the Tamron prevents zoom creep. It is just harder to find than the Vivitar and more expensive. The Pentax Adam suggested is also a fine lens and probably the best value of the lot. I had one but returned it because of zoom creep (and never went to that camera store again - the salesman was a total jerk about it). Last edited by monochrome; 11-16-2013 at 05:47 PM.

11-17-2013, 02:22 AM	#13
m42man Veteran Member Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Southern England Posts: 623	I know it's not exactly what you're after, but could I suggest the Pentax M 75-150/4. OK, it hasn't quite the reach, but it's relatively compact and light, it has excellent IQ (and probably better flare resistance than Tamrons and Vivitars), and should be easy to find and cheap to buy. Last edited by m42man; 11-17-2013 at 02:39 AM. Reason: It's 75-150, not 70-150...

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11-16-2013, 12:08 PM	#2
monochrome Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Working From Home Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 26,276	Vivitar Series 1 70~210/2.8~4 Macro ZOOM version 3. Get the one manufactured by Komine (first two serial number digits are 28). Many copies (but not all copies) of the Komine lens have "A" contacts which won't be useful with an LX, but even today it is a Cult Classic manual focus zoom. Take care to inquire about zoom creep. Many of these suffer from worn felts but tight zoom rings can be found. $125 - $175 EX with hard case. Old Mark Roberts post.

11-16-2013, 01:13 PM	#4
elliott Inactive Account Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: North Carolina Photos: Albums Posts: 1,720	Originally posted by monochrome Vivitar Series 1 70~210/2.8~4 Macro ZOOM version 3. Get the one manufactured by Komine (first two serial number digits are 28). Many copies (but not all copies) of the Komine lens have "A" contacts which won't be useful with an LX, but even today it is a Cult Classic manual focus zoom. Take care to inquire about zoom creep. Many of these suffer from worn felts but tight zoom rings can be found. $125 - $175 EX with hard case. Old Mark Roberts post. I have one and like it a lot. Here is one perfect for the LX because the A pin is missing. https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/24-photographic-equipment-sale/235225-sal...-3-komine.html

11-16-2013, 03:53 PM	#5
Stone G. Pentaxian Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: North Zealand, Denmark Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 1,516	There are also the Tamron Adaptall-2 lenses to consider: SP 70-200mm f/3.5, Model 19AH. See Adaptall-2.org: Tamron SP Adaptall-2 70-210mm F/3.5 Model 19AH SP 80-200mm f/2.8 Model 30A: See Adaptall-2.org: Tamron SP Adaptall-2 80-200mm F/2.8 LD Model 30A Both are great lenses but also somewhat rare/much sought after. I have the Model 30A and have only good things to say about it. You can find my own review here: Tamron SP80-200mm f/2.8LD Model 30A (Adaptall-2 system)

11-16-2013, 04:39 PM	#7
wombat2go Veteran Member Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Michigan Photos: Gallery Posts: 2,207	Back in the day, I really wanted the SMC Pentax -M zoom 80 ~ 200mm f/4.5 My old -M lens catalog here says it was 141.5mm long and only 555 gram. "..ideal for ... quick action demands of wildlife.....on the spot news photography..... excellent for ... candid portraits." I couldn't afford it and had to make do with a Tamron 70 ~ 210 which was a good one too. I learned how to use it for kids shots wide open at 70mm to get isolated leafy green backgrounds in the garden - rather good.

11-16-2013, 05:54 PM	#8
snostorm Veteran Member Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: Chicago suburb, IL, USA Posts: 1,535	I can personally vouch for the A 70-210 f4 and Tamron SP 80-200 f2.8 as I use both frequently. The latter is about the only zoom whose IQ good enough to really stand up to use with TC, IMO -- considerably better than the more common Tokina 80-200 f2.8 SD MF zoom. Early on in my Pentax DSLR experience (2K4-2K6) I was actively seeking, but never found a Series 1 Komine that I could justify buying. Their reputation is notable, and has stood up over time. Of course, after I gave up on getting one, they started becoming offered at reasonable prices much more often, but I just don't use the FL range enough to justify adding one to the collection. The A 70-210 is probably the best bang for the buck. Traditionally, it's been very commonly offered, and priced consistently under other lenses with its spec. Scott

11-16-2013, 09:19 PM	#9
Johnyb3000 Junior Member Join Date: May 2013 Location: Dillon Colorado Posts: 35 Original Poster	Originally posted by elliott I have one and like it a lot. Here is one perfect for the LX because the A pin is missing. https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/24-photographic-equipment-sale/235225-sal...-3-komine.html I just sent a PM to this listing, thanks for the heads up!

11-16-2013, 09:21 PM	#10
Johnyb3000 Junior Member Join Date: May 2013 Location: Dillon Colorado Posts: 35 Original Poster	All of you are awesome and I thank you each for your ideas. I have the feeling that I am going to end up with more than one lens in this adventure. Thank you!

11-16-2013, 09:46 PM	#11
Odinz Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Virginia, USA Photos: Albums Posts: 259	I have the Tokina, the Vivitar (Ver 3), a Sigma 75-250, Sears 80-200 and the Pentax-A, and while it has been awhile, I used all but the Tokina on my old LX. While the Pentax is only F4 (constant), as some others have said, for my money it is probably the best of the lot balancing both price and performance, especially on digital. I have found that the Vivitar (and I had two for some reason) was a better lens on film than it is on digital, especially wide open, and back in the day I would usually either grab the Vivitar or the Pentax with the choice being based on the filter size of the lens, they were really that close. When it comes to film to be quite honest I don't remember there being that much difference in the lenses because I shot and developed a lot of Tri-X and never 'pixel peeked" (except to the extent of a 16x20 print), even on Kodachrome (moot point now) the differences were small, although there was probably a slight difference in color rendition between them, but nothing glaring that I recall. I often kept track of exposure information when I shot but for some reason never kept track of the lens that I used and I don't think today I could tell which shot was taken with which lens. The Sears may have been a bit darker in the corners (and it said 'Sears' on it), the Vivitar may be a bit sharper in the mid focal ranges and the Pentax sharper up close. The main difference in the lenses was the way they handled "macro" modes, I think any of them would do just well as the other on the LX, just make sure you use a lens hood and any of them should be fine.

11-16-2013, 10:44 PM	#12
dms Site Supporter Join Date: Aug 2011 Location: New York, NY Photos: Gallery Posts: 2,192	I also suggest the VS1 70-210 mm Version 3. One of the sharpest lenses I own (comparable to the 50mm f/1.7 and 135mm f/2.5 K-SMC) based on usage (not testing). Partly so good because the visual contrast is high--so for me for theatre work it allows better/faster manual focusing. Also the handling (push-pull) works best for me!

11-18-2013, 12:38 PM	#14
gofour3 Site Supporter Join Date: Oct 2008 Location: Vancouver, Canada Posts: 8,088	+3 for the Pentax A70-210/4. Phil.

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11-18-2013, 12:51 PM	#15
Lloydy Veteran Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Shropshire, UK Posts: 1,114	In order of personal preference - 1. the Komine Vivitar S1 70-210 / 2.8 - 4, it's a terrific lens. 2. I've just bought an old Tamron Adaptall BBAR Macro 85-210 / 4.5, and it's another superb lens. But not that common. 3. Tokina AT-X SD 80-200, it's fast and very good. But I'd take the Vivitar every time, it just delivers!