[Jüri]

There are no "A" contacts on the Helios and the "crippled" mount on the *ist DS is not able mechanically couple to the aperture ring. Regardless of the set aperture, the camera's meter always assumes that the lens is wide open.

Now I understand. Thanks again.

[geekette]

I just bought this 44k-4 off eBay right now for $79 shipped from the Ukraine. Can't wait to get it.. I own the 44-2 right now and I imagine this will have that same bokeh swirl, sharpness, contrast and colors.

[boriscleto]

I just bought this 44k-4 off eBay right now for $79 shipped from the Ukraine. Can't wait to get it.. I own the 44-2 right now and I imagine this will have that same bokeh swirl, sharpness, contrast and colors.

Doubtful. The 44M has a very different bokeh from the 44-2. The 44M has 8 blades like the 44-2, the 44K-4 has 6 blades.

[geekette]

Doubtful. The 44M has a very different bokeh from the 44-2. The 44M has 8 blades like the 44-2, the 44K-4 has 6 blades.

Thanks Yeah I just counted 8 blades on the 44-2. Didn't realize the 44k-4 has 6 blades; so is the 44k-4 is a lesser lens?

[boriscleto]

Thanks Yeah I just counted 8 blades on the 44-2. Didn't realize the 44k-4 has 6 blades; so is the 44k-4 is a lesser lens?

It's not a lesser lens, it's just different.

[alspe]

It's not a lesser lens, it's just different.

So, which one gives more extreme bokeh? Swirly?

Can someone say if difference is small or should search more info about Helios's? Or should I just pick one and shoot pics?

[PKent]

So, which one gives more extreme bokeh? Swirly?

Can someone say if difference is small or should search more info about Helios's? Or should I just pick one and shoot pics?

Supposedly the "swirly" look is due to the len's optical formula, which they all share, but the shape of the individual bokeh highlights and lens flares will look different when stopped down, the 44k-4 will have hexagons, while the 44-2 have octagons.

Octagons are very common with moden lenses, they are more subtle and draw little attention (most highend Canon and Nikkor glass are 8 bladed) but I actually like 6 bladed irises for lenses like this, they stand out more which I think helps add to that vintage photo look.

[mourya]

i acquired a K mount version. only took some 3-4 test shots at f2. The bokeh looks smashed rather than swirly. may be i need to take more shots with vivid background. Apart from that.. i find it difficult to focus past infinity, like my SMC M lens. At the infinity (there is symbol on focusing ring) the focus is not quiet right.