[Marc Sabatella]

OK, sure, we'd all love a 12-500 f/2 zoom the size of the DA70 (because some say the DA40 is *too* small) that would sell for $100. But being a bit more realistic, what lens that just doesn't exist now would you most like to see?

I've decided what my dream lens (on APS-C) would be:

- Something in the 24-28 range. I could see Pentax going for 26 to closely match the FOV of the original M40 pancake, and that's practically perfect by me. If not 26, I think I'd prefer slightly wider to slightly longer, but would be OK with it either way.

- f/2.4: just fast enough to satisfy those who want their primes faster than f/2.8, not so fast as to make it too big or too expensive. But I'll settle for f/2.8 if that's needed to get size and cost under control.

- 49mm filter like most of the rest of the Pentax primes

- DA Limited series body, ideally with WR (but no need for "*" treatment), including quick shift and most importantly, built-in or DA21-like integrated hood - no sense having a small lens that requires a large hood.

Note while it appears similar at first, this is *not* the "cheap fast normal prime" that I know others will surely describe wanting. I envision this being a $400-$500 lens like the DA21 or DA70 on a good day; I'm willing to pay more and give up a little speed for a slightly wider angle, better build, and that all-important integrated hood.

I wouldn't complain if Pentax made a cheap fast normal also, of course, and I might even buy it - but I think in an ideal world, I'd rather have the above lens and DA40 to bracket my "normal" needs. I'd love to see a 120mm or 135mm prime again, too, but first things first!

[henryjing]

I always dream I can collect all the FA limited.

In China, we call these three lens "Princess", they are the must lens for a Pentaxian.

Classic, Sharp, Beautiful Bokeh, great IQ...in all, the perfect lens.

I don't like the zoom lens. Like in Canon, 35L, 50L, 135L will be the final destiny, if we don't count in those 200mm,300mm lens.

[StephenMerola]

I have dreams about the Fa 77mm, but I think I would prefer the Fa 600mm.

[RBellavance]

Marc, my dream lens is very similar to yours. I'm one of those clamouring for a "cheap, fast normal" (not that I really need one, as I already have an FA35/2), but your idea makes a lot of sense.

I'd be more willing to compromise a bit on size to bring to aperture up to f/2, however. So... 24mm, f/2, WR, and built-in/integrated hood, for 400-500$ sounds great to me.

[Blue]

At this point in time it would be the FA* 600mm f4 as far as an existing lens goes or a FA* 800mm f4 for a mythical lens.

[joeyc]

Marc,

I sort of agree with you. I'd like a DA24 or DA28 pancake(ish) lens. F2.4 works for me. The DA21 is a little wide for my liking. On the telephoto side, how about a DA400 F5.6? Still can be somewhat affordable (sub $2k). Even more important, how about a weathersealed TC?

Joe

[ajuett]

These 4 lens would be near perfect for me;

- all in Limited series quality.
- all with built-in hoods.
- WR optional.

DA Ltd 10mm f/4

DA Ltd 30mm f/2.4

DA Ltd 70mm f/2.4 (already exists

DA Ltd 270mm f/3.2

...oh, and a bank account that can handle all of the above.

[RioRico]

If I can't afford it, it's not a dream, it's a nightmare. So I'll get by with what I have.

And the next nightmare is, carrying a nice subset all at once. That bunch is heavy.

[jsherman999]

.

There are three:

* 50-135 f/2.8 with a new, ultra-fast, almost never-fail, ring motor, ala HSM II (Sigma)

This requires the complete reinvention of SDM, which would benefit Pentax incredibly, solve some of the 'slow AF' issues, and virtually all of the reliability issues. The original 50-135 was class-leading optically, so please don't touch the optics. Fix what's wrong with it - the motor.

A new AF module in the camera could later be introduced (or developed in tandem) with the new ring motor. Done right, Pentax leaps up a few notches in AF speed and runs with Nikon there.

* 70-200 f/4

Small, (same size as 50-135, much smaller than 60-250,) uber-sharp (ala Canon L,) very fast to focus (see new ring motor request above.)

* 135 f/2.8 Limited.

Gimme ^ .


EDIT:

No, there are four.

* 35 f/1.8

Nikon did it for $199. Charge a bit more, I don't care, but a relatively low-cost, fast D-normal IS REQUIRED, PENTAX!!





.

I will take one of each that Jay is wanting!

I've decided what my dream lens (on APS-C) would be:

- Something in the 24-28 range
- f/2.4
- 49mm filter
- DA Limited series body, ideally with WR

But Marc, aren't there actually fairly many lenses that come very close? Focal range: check. Aperture: very close at f/2.5-2.8. Filter: I assume check. Limited build quality and WR: OK, this remains to be seen. OK, many suitable lenses don't have AF either, but then again, there's always hyperfocal.

What is the current lens close to these specs that you find the best for you?

[ll_coffee_lP]

FA77, FA43, and Sigma 30 are all about perfect IMO. If I could add a lens to this superb trio it would be a 100/105mm f/1.8 or f/2 lens that has amazing bokeh and 3d image pop. Also...make it a limited lens with built in hood, and quick shift.

c[_]

[stevebrot]

My dream lenses right now are a little outside those listed above. Those in the know will have a hint as to what direction I have been heading:

• Nikkor SW 65/4
• Caltar IIN 90/6.8 or Schneider Super-Symmar XL 110/5.6
• Fujinon CM-W 150/5.6 or Nikkor W 150/5.6

In all likelihood, the Caltar 90 is the starting point followed by the Nikkor 65.

Steve

(Yes, Steve is falling into the money pit...at least it is not Leica stuff...)

A 180mm or 200mm macro.

[ajuett]

Actually, my dream lens is this one I already own. The M 100 f/2.8 impresses me more every time I use it. Faster? It could be. Focus in spur of the moment would be more challenging with a faster f-stop which I'd rather leave to ISO in that case. Another plus; no extra debt involved!

It's perfectly balanced (in both weight and looks) on the K-x as well