Originally posted by PentaxPoke Albert,
I don't quite follow. How do you get those numbers? It looks like the SDM failure rate amongst Pentax enthusiasts (people who contribute to the forums) is remarkably high. I wonder how many people who don't follow the forums are limping along with a lens that Sometimes Doesn't Move.
The SDM failure rates are "remarkably high" for those that choose to participate in the polls. Traditionally, people with no problems also have no comments. As a result, the incidence of failure may be as high as the poll indicates, but more likely is somewhat less.
So where do you go for good data? The gold standard for quality issues is the frequency of return for warranty service. Unfortunately, makers are not usually going to share that data unless it looks really good for marketing purposes. Anecdotal evidence (word of mouth reports) is that the numbers are close to the figures stated by Albert and are representative for the industry in general.
Now, if you look at my signature, you will notice a conspicuous absence of SDM lenses. This is mostly by accident, but is also partially due to a hesitancy to invest that kind of money in complicated moving parts that have the potential to wear out fairly quickly.
Steve