Originally posted by kerrowdown I'll tell you one thing, your fathers not looking too chuffed in any of these, how long did he have to stand for you to do the tests.
I must admit I have the A series 85mm F1.4 (with the pukka hood) and I luv it to bits, so I guess I'm to biased to comment about the best lens.
I think bias is the point here. Both lenses seem to perform extremely well, but in different ways, so the best lens is the one you like the most. There is no way to give an absolute answer to the question of which one is the better lens.
I've always wanted the A* 85 and eventually had to "settle" for the 77 Ltd. After seeing these comparisons I find I actually like the rendition of the 77 Ltd better, so I'm happy I didn't spend a whole lot of money on the A* 85 if the 77 Ltd gives me what I want. For others it will be the other way around and they'll want the A* 85.
It really is a matter of taste and a testament to Pentax's design prowess that they're capable of creating two great lenses at the very top of the 80mm food chain and yet give each of them a distinct personality.