Originally posted by Winder Off the top of my head I like the 31mm, 43mm, 70mm, 100mm macro. I know some people like the 77mm the most, but I will go with the 70mm DA for its size or the 85mm Sigma for the quality I am seeing from the Canon & Nikon version.
Very refreshing to see someone recognise the leaps in quality Sigma took and -- without brand blindness -- see what is truly left as unique products in the Pentax line up.
I'd love to see a comparison between the FA 77/1.8 and the Sigma 85/1.4. I'm not sure which one I'd pick if I had the choice today. Probably the Sigma based on focal length but I'm not sure what amount of "pixie dust" I'd forgo. Maybe none?
The problem with the Pentax line up, IMHO, is that quite a number of true gems are no longer in production (A* 85/1.4, FA 85/1.4, A* 135/1.8, 200mm Macro, FA* 80-200mm, FA* 250-600). That leaves the FA Ltds as objects of desire.
If you are into weather-sealing and small size (pancakes) then Pentax still has a lot to offer, but optically only a few lenses in the current setup are worth lusting after, IMHO.
Regarding your list of lenses to have in a set: Some may add the 50-135 and/or the 60-250. I personally would be cautious about the SDM issues with the 50-135 so I don't worry too much what it is like optically. I've seen very nice shots from the 60-250, this one seems like one to be worthwhile having.