I would love to see a DA* 50-135mm f2.8 PLM lens!

Lev · 11-25-2021, 01:06 AM

Originally posted by Kunzite

I wonder if using multiple PLM motors is just a technical challenge, or thoroughly protected by patents.

more size and weight imho

---------- Post added 11-25-21 at 12:32 ----------

Originally posted by hjoseph7

I would definitely buy it ! The reason I don't purchase the current 50-135 is because of its reputation with bad AF motors. The 50-135 mm is the equivalent of a 70-200 mm lens on full frame camera, therefore perfect for weddings and events.

Despite such a bad reputation I and fear of the SDM failure, I bought this lens brand new some time ago. Sadly for me I found so many small unfortunate details that I had to return it. I hope there will be refreshed version soon to be at the level of D-FA* 70-200.

**Rondec** · 11-25-2021, 03:31 AM

I would think they would release it with a ring motor or faster DC motor. The PLM lenses are fastest, but do focus by wire. I think the DFA *70-200 is quite fast as well without that down side. Put a focus limiter on it like they have with some of the other lenses and you'd be able to keep up with about anything even without PLM.

house · 11-25-2021, 03:51 AM - **2 Likes**

Seems several brands are doing dual plm to allow heavier focussing group.

Kunzite · 11-25-2021, 04:37 AM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by house

Seems several brands are doing dual plm to allow heavier focussing group.

Precisely.
I'm somewhat favoring ring-type SDM (since it's not focus-by-wire), but boy, that PLM is fast.

OTOH until we hear otherwise, I'd expect PLM or DC for a new DA* 50-135.

**PocketPixels** · 11-29-2021, 01:48 PM

Originally posted by FozzFoster

I would be surprised if they don't fix that lens with a PLM in the ~~near~~ future, similar to how they fixed the 16-50.

I saw many reviews for the original DA★ 16–50mm that faulted it for softness in the corners, and this was why I went with the Sigma 17–50 ƒ/2.8 for my "standard wedding lens." So I understand why Ricoh/Pentax updated it to the HD PLM version. But the only bad reviews I've seen for the DA★ 50–135mm pertain to SDM failure, and it was my understanding that those problems had largely been worked out by 2014-ish? My 50–135mm focuses quickly, silently, and with impeccable sharpness. I don't know what an HD-coated and PLM-equipped version could offer that would tempt me to upgrade, unless they somehow managed to cut the weight by 150g or so.

**beachgardener** · 12-01-2021, 12:28 AM

they did the 16-50, I'm sure a revamp of the 50-135 is in the works, at least I hope so

Jonathan Mac · 12-01-2021, 02:39 AM

All of the original DA* series are long overdue a refresh. The whole AF system should have been replaced almost a decade ago and in that time they've managed... one model.

So yes, an HD PLM 50-135 would be good. And a 55/1.4. And a 200/2.8. And a 300/4.

sarge · 12-01-2021, 04:11 AM

Originally posted by PocketPixels

I saw many reviews for the original DA★ 16–50mm that faulted it for softness in the corners, and this was why I went with the Sigma 17–50 ƒ/2.8 for my "standard wedding lens." So I understand why Ricoh/Pentax updated it to the HD PLM version. But the only bad reviews I've seen for the DA★ 50–135mm pertain to SDM failure, and it was my understanding that those problems had largely been worked out by 2014-ish? My 50–135mm focuses quickly, silently, and with impeccable sharpness. I don't know what an HD-coated and PLM-equipped version could offer that would tempt me to upgrade, unless they somehow managed to cut the weight by 150g or so.

So you are saying Pentax fixed the current 50-135 in 2014?

**Rondec** · 12-01-2021, 04:12 AM

Originally posted by Jonathan Mac

All of the original DA* series are long overdue a refresh. The whole AF system should have been replaced almost a decade ago and in that time they've managed... one model.

So yes, an HD PLM 50-135 would be good. And a 55/1.4. And a 200/2.8. And a 300/4.

They've been working on the DFA line up -- so far we have seen a mixture of rebadges from Tamron (DFA 70-210/24-70/15-30) plus DFA *50 and 85, DFA 21 limited, and the re-release of the HD FA limiteds. On the DA side, there has been the DA *11--18 and the DA *16-50 PLM.

Every lens takes some time to design. It isn't as simple as just slapping a new motor in it and sending it out the door. The lenses with dual auto focus capability (DA *16-50/50-135/200/300/60-250) probably would require more work to update them, even if the optics aren't changed much.

My guess is that Pentax is watching current stock on these lenses and will target a new lens release for such time as stocks get low. It makes more sense to release a new lens at that point than to do another production run of an old lens that you are planning to eventually phase out.

Lev · 12-01-2021, 09:27 AM

Originally posted by Rondec

They've been working on the DFA line up -- so far we have seen a mixture of rebadges from Tamron (DFA 70-210/24-70/15-30) plus DFA *50 and 85, DFA 21 limited, and the re-release of the HD FA limiteds. On the DA side, there has been the DA *11--18 and the DA *16-50 PLM.

Every lens takes some time to design. It isn't as simple as just slapping a new motor in it and sending it out the door. The lenses with dual auto focus capability (DA *16-50/50-135/200/300/60-250) probably would require more work to update them, even if the optics aren't changed much.

My guess is that Pentax is watching current stock on these lenses and will target a new lens release for such time as stocks get low. It makes more sense to release a new lens at that point than to do another production run of an old lens that you are planning to eventually phase out.

If Pentax is waiting for stock they have to wait at least one generation of people, because I don't know anyone that crazy except me of course who will buy this lens brand new for $1k! better buy it good, used copy and wait for the refresh.

house · 12-01-2021, 11:10 AM

There must be something like that going on though. The timing and choice of lenses seems to relate to stock. The smc FA35 is still available new though.

normhead · 12-01-2021, 11:17 AM

For some reason, I'd be a lot more likely to buy if it was a 50-150 macro and FF. Even if the macro was only 1:2. Given that the DA 55-300 PLM is ƒ6.3 (instead of 5.6) , to keep the focussing group lighter, it's unlikely a 150 2.8 could be PLM.

**PocketPixels** · 12-01-2021, 02:48 PM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by sarge

So you are saying Pentax fixed the current 50-135 in 2014?

Yes, according to the Pentax engineer(s) quoted in the article.

sarge · 12-01-2021, 06:15 PM

Originally posted by PocketPixels

Yes, according to the Pentax engineer(s) quoted in the article.

Well the perhaps I may just pick one up. It is the last lens I need for my APS-C Holy Trinity.

Jonathan Mac · 12-02-2021, 04:55 AM

Originally posted by Rondec

My guess is that Pentax is watching current stock on these lenses and will target a new lens release for such time as stocks get low. It makes more sense to release a new lens at that point than to do another production run of an old lens that you are planning to eventually phase out.

They would have to be absolutely crazy to wait until people have lost so much interest in the brand that they aren't buying anything. By that time Pentax would be dead.

Bring a new lens out and sell the old stock off cheap for those who are willing to take a risk and buy it, that's what everyone else does.

11-29-2021, 01:48 PM	#20
PocketPixels Site Supporter Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Dublin, Ireland Posts: 385	Originally posted by FozzFoster I would be surprised if they don't fix that lens with a PLM in the ~~near~~ future, similar to how they fixed the 16-50. I saw many reviews for the original DA★ 16–50mm that faulted it for softness in the corners, and this was why I went with the Sigma 17–50 ƒ/2.8 for my "standard wedding lens." So I understand why Ricoh/Pentax updated it to the HD PLM version. But the only bad reviews I've seen for the DA★ 50–135mm pertain to SDM failure, and it was my understanding that those problems had largely been worked out by 2014-ish? My 50–135mm focuses quickly, silently, and with impeccable sharpness. I don't know what an HD-coated and PLM-equipped version could offer that would tempt me to upgrade, unless they somehow managed to cut the weight by 150g or so. Last edited by PocketPixels; 11-29-2021 at 01:57 PM. Reason: added citation for fixed SDM issue

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11-25-2021, 01:06 AM	#16
Lev Veteran Member Join Date: Aug 2015 Location: Tbilisi, Georgia Posts: 1,197	Originally posted by Kunzite I wonder if using multiple PLM motors is just a technical challenge, or thoroughly protected by patents. more size and weight imho ---------- Post added 11-25-21 at 12:32 ---------- Originally posted by hjoseph7 I would definitely buy it ! The reason I don't purchase the current 50-135 is because of its reputation with bad AF motors. The 50-135 mm is the equivalent of a 70-200 mm lens on full frame camera, therefore perfect for weddings and events. Despite such a bad reputation I and fear of the SDM failure, I bought this lens brand new some time ago. Sadly for me I found so many small unfortunate details that I had to return it. I hope there will be refreshed version soon to be at the level of D-FA* 70-200.

11-25-2021, 03:31 AM	#17
Rondec Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Gladys, Virginia Photos: Gallery Posts: 27,668	I would think they would release it with a ring motor or faster DC motor. The PLM lenses are fastest, but do focus by wire. I think the DFA *70-200 is quite fast as well without that down side. Put a focus limiter on it like they have with some of the other lenses and you'd be able to keep up with about anything even without PLM.

11-25-2021, 03:51 AM - 2 Likes	#18
house Pentaxian Join Date: May 2015 Photos: Albums Posts: 3,306	Seems several brands are doing dual plm to allow heavier focussing group.

11-25-2021, 04:37 AM - 1 Like	#19
Kunzite Pentaxian Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Romania Posts: 15,132	Originally posted by house Seems several brands are doing dual plm to allow heavier focussing group. Precisely. I'm somewhat favoring ring-type SDM (since it's not focus-by-wire), but boy, that PLM is fast. OTOH until we hear otherwise, I'd expect PLM or DC for a new DA* 50-135.

12-01-2021, 12:28 AM	#21
beachgardener Site Supporter Join Date: Sep 2013 Location: Australia Photos: Gallery Posts: 3,842	they did the 16-50, I'm sure a revamp of the 50-135 is in the works, at least I hope so

12-01-2021, 02:39 AM	#22
Jonathan Mac Pentaxian Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Madrid, Spain Posts: 10,911	All of the original DA* series are long overdue a refresh. The whole AF system should have been replaced almost a decade ago and in that time they've managed... one model. So yes, an HD PLM 50-135 would be good. And a 55/1.4. And a 200/2.8. And a 300/4.

12-01-2021, 04:11 AM	#23
sarge Veteran Member Join Date: Feb 2016 Location: Illinois Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 460 Original Poster	Originally posted by PocketPixels I saw many reviews for the original DA★ 16–50mm that faulted it for softness in the corners, and this was why I went with the Sigma 17–50 ƒ/2.8 for my "standard wedding lens." So I understand why Ricoh/Pentax updated it to the HD PLM version. But the only bad reviews I've seen for the DA★ 50–135mm pertain to SDM failure, and it was my understanding that those problems had largely been worked out by 2014-ish? My 50–135mm focuses quickly, silently, and with impeccable sharpness. I don't know what an HD-coated and PLM-equipped version could offer that would tempt me to upgrade, unless they somehow managed to cut the weight by 150g or so. So you are saying Pentax fixed the current 50-135 in 2014?

12-01-2021, 04:12 AM	#24
Rondec Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Gladys, Virginia Photos: Gallery Posts: 27,668	Originally posted by Jonathan Mac All of the original DA* series are long overdue a refresh. The whole AF system should have been replaced almost a decade ago and in that time they've managed... one model. So yes, an HD PLM 50-135 would be good. And a 55/1.4. And a 200/2.8. And a 300/4. They've been working on the DFA line up -- so far we have seen a mixture of rebadges from Tamron (DFA 70-210/24-70/15-30) plus DFA 50 and 85, DFA 21 limited, and the re-release of the HD FA limiteds. On the DA side, there has been the DA 11--18 and the DA 16-50 PLM. Every lens takes some time to design. It isn't as simple as just slapping a new motor in it and sending it out the door. The lenses with dual auto focus capability (DA 16-50/50-135/200/300/60-250) probably would require more work to update them, even if the optics aren't changed much. My guess is that Pentax is watching current stock on these lenses and will target a new lens release for such time as stocks get low. It makes more sense to release a new lens at that point than to do another production run of an old lens that you are planning to eventually phase out.

12-01-2021, 09:27 AM	#25
Lev Veteran Member Join Date: Aug 2015 Location: Tbilisi, Georgia Posts: 1,197	Originally posted by Rondec They've been working on the DFA line up -- so far we have seen a mixture of rebadges from Tamron (DFA 70-210/24-70/15-30) plus DFA 50 and 85, DFA 21 limited, and the re-release of the HD FA limiteds. On the DA side, there has been the DA 11--18 and the DA 16-50 PLM. Every lens takes some time to design. It isn't as simple as just slapping a new motor in it and sending it out the door. The lenses with dual auto focus capability (DA 16-50/50-135/200/300/60-250) probably would require more work to update them, even if the optics aren't changed much. My guess is that Pentax is watching current stock on these lenses and will target a new lens release for such time as stocks get low. It makes more sense to release a new lens at that point than to do another production run of an old lens that you are planning to eventually phase out. If Pentax is waiting for stock they have to wait at least one generation of people, because I don't know anyone that crazy except me of course who will buy this lens brand new for $1k! better buy it good, used copy and wait for the refresh.

12-01-2021, 11:10 AM	#26
house Pentaxian Join Date: May 2015 Photos: Albums Posts: 3,306	There must be something like that going on though. The timing and choice of lenses seems to relate to stock. The smc FA35 is still available new though.

12-01-2021, 11:17 AM	#27
normhead Pentaxian Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Near Algonquin Park Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 40,451	For some reason, I'd be a lot more likely to buy if it was a 50-150 macro and FF. Even if the macro was only 1:2. Given that the DA 55-300 PLM is ƒ6.3 (instead of 5.6) , to keep the focussing group lighter, it's unlikely a 150 2.8 could be PLM.

12-01-2021, 02:48 PM - 1 Like	#28
PocketPixels Site Supporter Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Dublin, Ireland Posts: 385	Originally posted by sarge So you are saying Pentax fixed the current 50-135 in 2014? Yes, according to the Pentax engineer(s) quoted in the article.

12-01-2021, 06:15 PM	#29
sarge Veteran Member Join Date: Feb 2016 Location: Illinois Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 460 Original Poster	Originally posted by PocketPixels Yes, according to the Pentax engineer(s) quoted in the article. Well the perhaps I may just pick one up. It is the last lens I need for my APS-C Holy Trinity.

12-02-2021, 04:55 AM	#30
Jonathan Mac Pentaxian Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Madrid, Spain Posts: 10,911	Originally posted by Rondec My guess is that Pentax is watching current stock on these lenses and will target a new lens release for such time as stocks get low. It makes more sense to release a new lens at that point than to do another production run of an old lens that you are planning to eventually phase out. They would have to be absolutely crazy to wait until people have lost so much interest in the brand that they aren't buying anything. By that time Pentax would be dead. Bring a new lens out and sell the old stock off cheap for those who are willing to take a risk and buy it, that's what everyone else does.