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04-06-2014, 10:18 PM   #1
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Sigma 30mm F1.4 "Art" Review Posted

Just posted, here's the PF in-depth review of the new Sigma 30mm F1.4 "Art":

Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC HSM "Art" - Introduction - PentaxForums.com

A stellar lens optically and a great value at $499, but its AF seems to have issues in the K-mount version.




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04-06-2014, 10:23 PM   #2
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QuoteOriginally posted by Adam Quote
Just posted, here's the PF in-depth review of the new Sigma 30mm F1.4 "Art":

Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC HSM "Art" - Introduction - PentaxForums.com

A stellar lens optically and a great value at $499, but its AF seems to have issues in the K-mount version.
Awesome, by any chance you can test the image circle, maybe mounting it on a film camera.
04-06-2014, 10:52 PM   #3
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QuoteQuote:
One last thing we'd like to mention in this section is that this lens has a 62mm filter thread, a rare diameter which it doesn't share with any current Pentax lens.
Pentax DA 18-135mm lens has 62mm filter thread.
04-06-2014, 11:55 PM   #4
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I've read about the focus issues, and not just for Pentax. I can't remember where, since I was just browsing around for user reviews of the new Art Sigma 30, but I distinctly remember reading similar reports from other systems.

EDIT: FOUND IT

https://www.flickr.com/groups/sigma30mm/discuss/72157634329870427/


Last edited by EarlVonTapia; 04-07-2014 at 12:24 AM.
04-07-2014, 01:25 AM   #5
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I've got the cash saved for a second hand Sigma 30 (about $350), or do I save a bit more for the new 'Art' series version? This AF issue has me worried, as does the prospect of picking up a dodgy copy of the previous model. What to do.......

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04-07-2014, 03:55 AM   #6
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I don't understand the flower charts sharpness test, the review favors the Sigma lens for center sharpness but to me the Pentax looks better in all settings. Maybe it's something that is seen in a larger image?
04-07-2014, 06:34 AM - 1 Like   #7
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QuoteOriginally posted by mtux Quote
Pentax DA 18-135mm lens has 62mm filter thread.
Which is exactly why my "Travel with the family" kit is my 18-135, 30/1.4 (the old one) a CPL and a 2 stop ND.

04-07-2014, 07:45 AM   #8
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I was scared I spent too much on the FA31. I'm reassured.
04-07-2014, 08:25 AM   #9
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They should rebrand this lens as manual focus only like the samyangs. Scratch this lens off my want list.
04-07-2014, 08:31 AM   #10
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Wasn't the previous screwdrive version also wonky with the AF? It might just be the way the lens elements work? This lens may have a new design, but it might still have that flaw.
04-07-2014, 08:35 AM   #11
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QuoteOriginally posted by Driline Quote
Scratch this lens off my want list.
Yeah, I agree with that-- unless I hear of user reports that indicate that the lens is focusing better, because Sigma has fixed the problem or some other reason, I will probably pass on this and get the Sigma 18-35 instead.

Although the AF performance kind of reminds me of my FA 35-- which, while quick, is not always accurate. So, I get sharp, beautiful pictures when the AF is on target, but I usually have to take a few pictures to get the one keeper. Not sure I want to have to do that with a brand-new, modern Sigma 30mm f/1.4 lens.

Ahh..... I guess I'll hold on to my smc-F 28mm and FA 35 for now instead of selling both to get this Sigma. And the FA 31 is now back on my wish list...
04-07-2014, 08:41 AM   #12
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Its size and AF issue tells me to hold on to my DA 35 at least until the AF issue fixed.
04-07-2014, 08:46 AM   #13
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It is interesting, as the Sigma 28mm f 1.8 I have is great with the screw-drive autofocus, fast and accurate. I wonder whether it's the extra stop or an issue with the motor drive? If so, perhaps they'll issue a bug fix.
04-07-2014, 08:49 AM   #14
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I wonder if sample variation also comes into play here. Adam tested the lens on multiple Pentax bodies and found the problem, but did he use other copies of the lens?
04-07-2014, 10:07 AM   #15
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QuoteOriginally posted by seventysixersfan Quote
And the FA 31 is now back on my wish list...
Me too
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