I am familiar on both M8 and M9. I had a chance to shoot an M9 first-hand at one of Steve Huff's workshops, and it's performance is similar to the M8 (though maybe not AS sharp, believe it or not).
I think the FA 43, a good copy properly auto-focusing, easily can hold it's own against a Leica lens. As good? Likely not. But way more than "good enough" for the discerning Leica user
... and that's not just in sharpness, but in character too. I WAS stunned with it's quality, and that's not an experience I've had often compared to my M8 with any lens, as more often than not, most camera/lens combos pale in comparison (probably something to do with the quality of M-Glass and the lack of strong AA filter on the camera).
May I ask a silly question?
I can't figure it out on the K-5... is it possible with the FA43 to do fine manual-focus adjustments after auto focusing? It seems if you are in AF mode, the lens won't allow manual focusing at all... am I missing something or is that true? It isn't a big deal, it's just a feature that's nice to have from time to time... could be a limitation of the lens?
Being accustomed to rangefinder focusing (so easy!), I do find manual focusing a little difficult with the standard focus screen seen in the viewfinder. I'm considering swapping out to a Katzeye or comparable... but I'm going to give it more time.
Love to read your feedback everyone... so thanks!