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12-24-2008, 04:28 PM   #1
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Zeiss ZK50/1.4 vs. Voigtlander 58/1.4

I've searched through the various threads (finding mostly stuff about the Voigt), but has anyone shot both of these? I've already convinced myself to get the Zeiss 25/2.8 T*, and am looking for "fast 50" to fill out the prime lineup. Based on the images I've seen here, the 58 Nokton is *really* strong for what I shoot, but there always is the Zeiss pull. I frankly don't care about Photozone or other "measurements," but would rather hear/see subjective comparisons. Maybe I missed it, but I haven't seen much on the Zeiss.

12-24-2008, 04:51 PM   #2
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Some one did some quick comparison between the ZK 50/1.4 and Pentax A50/1.4 and the results seemed pretty on par of each other. Optically both are quite similar.

The VL58/1.4 is considered slightly better than the A50/1.4 by many owners.

Between these two, I'd go w/ the VL58/1.4. But to be honest, I'd be happy w/ the A50/1.4 anytime, and that's what I have
12-24-2008, 07:39 PM   #3
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Don't worry, the link master is here... lol

50mm Lenses - Pentax FA vs Zeiss ZK

Voigtlander Nokton 58mm f1.4 SLII - Mini Review - FM Forums

Discussion Forums @ Nikonians - Zeiss ZF 50 vs Topcor 58mm at f1.4

Fast glass around 50mm - Nikkor, Zeiss or Voigtlander?: Nikon SLR Lens Talk Forum: Digital Photography Review

Have you considered the Zeiss 50mm f2 macro? it's probably sharper than both if that's your thang...

Personaly (but having only used the 58mm), I'd get the 58mm for it's crazy bokeh
12-24-2008, 07:46 PM   #4
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for example...



and here's what you can do when you get the focus right...



Finally, here's one with the ZK 25mm at f8...



12-24-2008, 07:48 PM   #5
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One other thing.. have you thought about waiting for the new, weather resistant Pentax 55mm f1.4... I expect it to be pretty darn good also
12-24-2008, 09:07 PM   #6
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A new design to look forward to. Hopefully not the same as new Nikon 50mm f1.4 which is optically a disaster but better autofocus accuracy.
12-25-2008, 12:10 AM   #7
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QuoteOriginally posted by roentarre Quote
A new design to look forward to. Hopefully not the same as new Nikon 50mm f1.4 which is optically a disaster but better autofocus accuracy.
first impressions seem to be similar if not better? but AF is equally as slow

12-25-2008, 04:20 AM   #8
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I found THE review you need to read.

Let me quote the conclusion

"Carl Zeiss carries significantly higher brand name recognition then Voigtlander and this seems to be the only reason for the discount - Nokton 58mm f/1.4 SL II can indeed give Planar a run for its bokeh, err, money I mean... "

Save your money and get the Voigtlander...I don't need them as I have a good copy of the FA 43/1.9 ().

Voigtlander Nokton 58mm f/1.4 SL II Lens Review - Digital SLR Lens and Camera Reviews
12-25-2008, 06:33 AM   #9
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QuoteOriginally posted by roentarre Quote
A new design to look forward to. Hopefully not the same as new Nikon 50mm f1.4 which is optically a disaster but better autofocus accuracy.
Where can I read about this optical disaster?
12-25-2008, 08:44 AM   #10
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QuoteOriginally posted by blende8 Quote
Where can I read about this optical disaster?
wow i thought you had disappeared!
12-25-2008, 09:15 AM   #11
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There was some comparison shots of the Zeiss and the Nokton by a member on Clubsnap using a Nikon DSLR some months back. If I remember correctly, I thought the Nokton edged out the Zeiss then.

Imo the Zeiss lenses are priced a little too much compared to the equivalent Voigtlanders and often aren't that much better optically. Perhaps a case of prestige pricing to cash in on brand recognition.
12-25-2008, 09:42 AM   #12
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The Zeiss comes with a deluxe hood bayonet, better lens cap, oh and a hood. If it's like the 25mm, you can actualy take the cap off with the hood fitted due to the cap's pinch design.

The Voigt has a rubber grip (I like this), the hood is extra (though the combined price is still less), the lens cap is a little cheap.

I don't know of any internal quality differences, but otherwise the Voigt seems as well made as any lens. It's great.

After all of the above your main concern are the optical quality differences...
I can't help you here...

Last edited by lbam; 12-27-2008 at 08:23 AM.
12-26-2008, 04:56 PM   #13
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I also opted for the Voigt in this class, though Ibam has all the points to consider above. The Voigt has equal close focus distance (0.45m) but at 58mm vs 50, so its a little more 'close-focus' able. Helps the crazy bokeh. I'll still try a Zeiss 50 someday though.

K.
12-29-2008, 07:11 AM   #14
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Both are made by Cosina in japan
12-29-2008, 10:15 AM   #15
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QuoteOriginally posted by kshapero Quote
Both are made by Cosina in japan
Which is why the Voightlanders are essentially out of production.
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