[hinman]

Yes, it is cheap. It is Vivitar 70-150mm f/3.8 made by Kiron.

Kiron made 2x TC is quite decent

There are two zoom type with 1-touch and 2-touch format. I have used both and they come in either K mount and M42 mount. All have close focusing capability and close up happen in 70mm end and magnification ratio roughly goes to 1:4

I bought it for $40 from Youngster in PF and I got his two touch zoom in M42 mount for the Av mode. The K mount is just as good and very similar. If you look for this zoom, also look for the ones that pair with Vivitar/Kiron 1.5x or 2x matched multiplier as I have used the 2x multiplier. The Kiron has done a great job in the lens as well as the matched multiplier.

I reckon the 2 touch zoom share many IQ with the one touch but I prefer the 2-touch zoom for less mistakes in moving the zoom position while focusing. The best about the two touch zoom are as follows:

• very sharp, even wide open are sharp
• though 2-touch is bigger, but still relatively small to cover a useful range
• close focus is quite good due to good sharpness, when paired with diopter, it is like a 1:2 close up zoom lens
• f/3.8 is very capable for this zoom
• bokeh is alright, will be nice if softer
• slight tendency for bluish color
• built-in lens hood but not deep enough

Some close up with
Cosina 1:1 matched macro adapter
roughly 1:2 in the combo







Some casual street shots

The lens often goes low value and if you love manual lens zoom lens that don't break budget, this is a value lens to get from Kiron.

Thanks,
Hin

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Last edited by hinman; 04-10-2009 at 08:04 PM.