Originally posted by Vantage-Point The issue I think is that the majority of existing Pentax users that took Ricoh's survey said they would rather have more compact, slower lenses (F1.7, F2.0, F2.8) than larger F1.4 versions. In order to attract new users to Pentax they need newer, modern, quiet focusing versions of their legacy lenses as well as missing Full Frame focal lengths (15,20, 24, 28, 135mm, etc.) . They will probably cautiously introduce new large aperture lenses because they want to see if people are willing to buy them. If people start buying them they will add new lenses to the current lens catalog .
Where are the survey results? I wasn't aware the Ricoh-made survey actually released the results.
I think they are going to be cautious about introducing any and all lenses as they can't afford disasters.
The amount of resources (time and money) it takes to make a single lens is significant. To the point, I suspect, that if they launched a dud it would be quite damaging to RI. It would mean they'd have to R&D another design, further test, and manufacture... and hope they didn't tick off enough vendors who are now stuck with a bunch of smelly rejects (unless RI buys them back). Plus, under warranty, it could become quite costly if the design is faulty and Ricoh is footing the bill for repairs...
Not to mention all the bad PR they'd get..
I think that is why they announced then retreated from the 70-200mm initially. At the last minute, they must have discovered some qualities of the lens that were unappealing and had to address those. Saves trouble down the road to get it right from the start...
---------- Post added 02-22-17 at 10:09 PM ----------
Btw the interview is probably already on going.. so if you were considering asking question, your time is up!