Originally posted by peterbond I agree with Mike’s comments.
Welcome to the forums, Peter, from another UK member
I assume you're referring to the OP (I'm "Mike" too
)...
Originally posted by peterbond Pentax lenses are overpriced
That's a pretty broad statement. I wouldn't deny that
some Pentax lenses are expensive, but most - so far as I'm aware - offer comparable value-for-money to other brands. For example, compare the prices between Pentax's D FA15-30/2.8, D FA24-70/2.8 and D FA*70-200/2.8 with Nikon and Canon's nearest equivalents, and Pentax looks rather competitive. Yes, the D FA*50/1.4 is pricey for a fast 50mm lens, but it's offering the very best in image quality. Aside from the Tokina version, there's little in the market to compare with it. The new DA*11-18/2.8 is also pretty expensive, but again it's a "star" lens... you get what you pay for. Generally, though, I don't see where Pentax lenses are overpriced when compared to other major camera brand lenses.
Originally posted by peterbond neither Tamron or Sigma are bothered about anyone with a K mount.
In Sigma's case, this is true. It hasn't sold enough K-mount models in recent years to make it worthwhile. Plus, I have a sneaking suspicion that Sigma doesn't want to risk a repeat performance of having to update lens mount areas and/or firmware, as was required with some of their models when the K-1 was released.
As for Tamron, I believe there's a deal in place with Ricoh Imaging that prevents Tamron from manufacturing lenses for K-mount, except those branded as Pentax and manufactured under contract.
With sales in the interchangeable lens camera market falling, I don't see sales volumes of Pentax cameras increasing significantly, so I don't believe this situation is likely to change. It is what it is. If folks consider it a serious problem that they don't have access to new third party lenses, and they believe this is holding them back, they should absolutely switch to another brand that fits their requirements better.
Originally posted by peterbond Who are these “smaller lens manufacturers” you say are continuing to support Pentax ?
I recently enquired about Lensbaby products only to be told they had discontinued the K mount models.
Samyang / Rokinon
Laowa
Lomography
Zhongyi Mitakon