Originally posted by offertonhatter I am very tempted by the HD-FA 35, as I don't have the original SMC-FA version.
However, I DO have the SMC-DA F2.4 version which I use a lot on the K-1 and rather like.
The crux of the matter, reading the comments, if the DA35 really is F2-2.1 in reality and not F2.4, would there be any point having the new lens. Yes I have various film bodies too, about 50% can control the aperture, so not a big issue.
So, I would welcome an early comparison test of the HD-FA and SMC-DA versions sooner rather than later, to see if it worth getting it.
Originally posted by stevebrot You bring up a good point. There have been persistent claims on this site that the DA 35/2.4 is optically identical to the FA 35/2. Given the similarity between the optical diagrams and claims of no vignette on FF, the notion is worth considering. My suggestion would be that if one is happy using the DA 35/2.4 on a K-1, that is as good a reason as any to continue doing so. As for being faster than f/2.4, the difference is 1/2 stop and probably not worth extra money unless one is interested in the hood, case, metal mount, and aperture ring.
With any luck, the DA 35 will be included in the detailed test that will likely be done.
Steve
I would probably skip the HD FA 35/2 if I had either the FA35 or DA35, I just can't see a coating making that much of a difference, and then also consider the price exchange and how much more out of pocket you'll be. You'll likely suffer placebo thinking it's better when in fact pretty much the same. I hope someone comes along and messes with our heads and starts posting images of the HD DA 35/2, FA35/2 and DA35/2.4 and doesn't title which shot is which hehe >
I'm excited and also slightly deflated with the 'unscheduled' announcement of the HD FA35, because it wasn't like this was a lens that was not already available to purchase new, you can still purchase the FA35 new right now if you want! How I wish they did an HD FA for something that is
out of current circulation :'( Give us an HD FA20, HD FA24, HD FA135 or even better start banging out some HD F135's
Still the fact that they're not giving up on the lens altogether and releasing it with this HD coating fills me with hope that they might do the same with other lenses, current and old.