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Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 04-26-2011, 01:46 AM  
Macro lens decision
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 17
Views: 3,699
Vivitar car Telephoto macro 1:2,8 /90 mm - olypedia.de

The above link provides much insight into this lens and it's various incarnations under different brand names.
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 04-25-2011, 10:14 PM  
Macro lens decision
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 17
Views: 3,699





QuoteQuote:

The Elicar, Panagor, Panagor-Admiral, Soligor, Rokunar and Vivitar 90 (2.5-2.8 Serial #s 28XXXXXX) 1 to 1s without adapter are all Komine.



Ah - Thanks Phil for correcting me. It is indeed a Komine lens. Seems I am perpetuating bad information... I got into a blue a few years back on the Yahoo Kiron Club forum. I remember someone was stating that ALL Panagor stuff was made by Kiron. Somehow the misinformation stuck. It's a decent guide though, because much of the Panagor stuff it seems is Kino Precision made.

Thank you for setting things straight. I know how frustrating it is when someone on the internet is wrong!

I agree with Phil - Consider the flash as junk. The Komine 90mm macro however, is certainly worth the interest. Highly recommended.
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 04-25-2011, 07:17 AM  
besides bokeh, what makes a great lens?
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 88
Views: 10,470
Sharpness, contrast, and colour are highly prised.

* lenses generally seem to be characterised by:
- f-stop / speed
- the use of special elements or optical design / IQ
- materials & construction

Personally, what makes a great lens is how they feel (ergonomics) and the ease in which they help me get the shot I wanted. I've grown attachment to some really bad lenses over the years. All because I got that amazing image with it one time. Each lens has different strengths and weakness. You need to spend time finding out what they are and then be able to use that knowledge to your advantage. I know I've used some of the * lenses and gone away wondering what all the fuss is about. But, that's the thing. Without developing a working knowledge of a particular lens - it's hard to use it effectively.
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 04-25-2011, 06:39 AM  
Macro lens decision
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 17
Views: 3,699
I don't think the Elicar 90mm 2.5 and the Panagor 90mm are the same lens. The Elicar (which I have - and it's awesome) is made by Komine.
The Panagor should be made by Kino Precision (aka Kiron).

Provided the macro lens is in good condition, the biggest difference is going to be in the lens coatings and lack of resistance to flare. I have 10 macro lenses, some old some new. (Don't ask - I somehow kinda collected them.) Some of the 30-year-old designs are clearly sharper than my newest (SMC-FA 100mm). In fact, I prefer using some of the older ones as they provide better handling, ie - longer focus throw. Sometimes the unique character the older lens brings is desirable. For instance, the Elicar 90mm is prone to creating a slightly busy / watercolour like effect in it's bokeh. This is useful when the subject isn't particularly intricate.

The only feature you are going to lose is AF. And while AF can be useful when trying to get moving subject shots, it is generally useless for macro shooting.

If you decide to go for it, you need to check the older lens thoroughly. Look for dust, oil, and other nasties inside. Look for any separation of elements. You may find that the optics have yellowed slightly - although this can be easily fixed by exposing the glass to UV light.
If it's in good shape and the price is right, I say go for it.
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 04-25-2011, 05:31 AM  
FA35mm/2 or FA43mm/1.9 limited
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 40
Views: 6,865
I recommend the 43mm. I use this as my "normal" lens. I made a decision a few years ago to get back to basics and generally only shoot with a normal focal length prime. My thinking was that if all the old masters could get by with only a 50mm prime, then so should I. Plus I get a little exercise by zooming with my feet. :)

I did actually get the 31mm to be used as my normal (being the closest to the 50mm focal length used in FF), but have found myself using the 43mm more. I guess it's personal preference. I always preferred a slightly tighter shot.

The only problem with getting one of the amigos, is that eventually you must have all three!
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 04-25-2011, 03:20 AM  
DA 200+1.7 teleconverter or M 400
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 9
Views: 2,445
I would go for the manual 400mm lens.
(Or start looking at the xx-500mm wonder lenses that they make these days.)

If you are finding 200mm is not close enough, you are obviously wanting more reach. Adding just the AF adapter (1.7x) is only going to get you to 340mm. And despite the favourable reviews the AF adapter (1.7x) receives, it is a TC, and it does degrade the image quality. You may not be be satisfied with both the reach and the quality if you go the AF adapter (1.7x) alone.

My experience was this. My longest lens was the SMC-A 200mm macro f4. (A fantastic telephoto lens by the way.) I wanted more reach. So I got the AF adapter (1.7). I was really disappointed with the quality reduction. It seems that there is a limit in the sharpness that the AF adapter (1.7) can pass through. Or it doesn't play nice with the SMC-A 200mm macro. Next I got the Rear Converter-A 2x-L. This worked much better, as the quality was extremely good, and the added reach was noticeable. (2x-L is a matched item for the A 200mm macro that works fantastic on both the telephoto and macro ends.) But again, the TC did degrade the image quality slightly. Finally, I picked up SMC-A 400mm f5.6 late last year. (A ridiculously sharp lens with buckets of contrast.) Testing the 200mm plus TC vs the 400mm is no contest. The 400mm wins hands down everytime. Not only in speed, contrast, and sharpness, but in handling too. It seems that dedicated lenses are the way to go. (It's just a pity about Pentax's current offerings in this department.) A TC is more of a bandaid solution - that may suit if you only sometimes need that reach. But will probably bring disappointment if you are to be shooting at that distance often / or have a regular session where you are shooting at that length most of the time.

You also need to consider that using longer lenses does require technique. And practice of that technique. A tripod or monopod is generally a necessity for best results. And, of course, you do need to factor in manual focusing. Trying to catch subjects in motion with a telephoto can bring it's own headaches.

I have been having too much fun with the SMC-A 400mm F5.6 lens by itself. I have yet to test the 400mm lens with the AF adapter (1.7x). I did a very quick test, and found the AF adapter (1.7x) did work fine in bright light (even though it is rated to only work with f2.8 lenses or faster). But I already knew that from various posts on this forum. I look forward to testing this combo out soon.

I guess you need to hear from someone who uses the DA*200 f2.8 & AF adapter (1.7x) together...
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 11-29-2010, 06:03 AM  
???Kiron/Vivitar/Lester A Dine 105mm Macro Lens???
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 4
Views: 4,430
Hi,

Just to clarify - once upon a time Vivitar used serial numbers where the first two digits indicated the manufacturer.
22xxxxxx = Kino (Kiron)
28xxxxxx = Komine
37xxxxxx = Tokina
etc
see here:
Vivitar Lens Manufactuers

As you have already researched, this amazing lens comes in a number of identities:
- Kiron 105mm f2.8
- Lester A. Dine 105mm f2.8
- Vivitar 100mm f2.8 (22xxxxxx serial)
- Vivitar Series 1 105mm F2.5 (22xxxxxx serial)

The optical formula (6 elements / 6 groups) and lens design is the same for all versions. As pointed out, there are differences in coatings, markings, and hood design (if it has one). It should be noted that while there may be "marketed" differences in focal length and f-stop - it is supposedly the exact same lens in each instance. The Vivitar Series 1 version was the last version to be made and therefore might benefit from more recent multi-coating developments.
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 07-18-2010, 03:02 AM  
Tokina AF 20-35mm
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 14
Views: 11,434
Hey there. Glad to hear (and see) that you got a hood for your lens. Now it looks just as bad-ass as mine! :lol:

The front element is rather large and exposed - so it's a worthwhile investment. The last thing you need is colour and contrast washout ruining a perfect shot. (Even if the Tokina multi-coating is awesome.) I like your new pics - especially the temple ones. Nice job.
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 07-16-2010, 07:54 PM  
Tokina AF 20-35mm
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 14
Views: 11,434
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 07-11-2010, 08:50 PM  
Jun Hirakawa
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 26
Views: 16,256
^^^^^^^^^
I'm only joking above.
He definitely designed the 43mm and 77mm Limiteds. It would be interesting to know other Pentax lens designers too - cos' lets face it, Pentax has created some pretty amazing lenses in it's time.
I'm particularly interested in knowing who designed the 31mm?
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 07-11-2010, 07:56 PM  
Jun Hirakawa
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 26
Views: 16,256
If you're seeing his fingerprints - it is because he assembled each lens personally by hand ...

Hoya had to let him go - it was getting too expensive to fly him to Vietnam each week so he could perform these duties ...
Forum: Pentax News and Rumors 07-11-2010, 07:30 PM  
new lenses?
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 282
Views: 67,487
If Pentax did release a 135mm - I think it should be f2 or f1.8 too. That would create a nice contrast to the recent 100mm DFA macro WR. Yep - A nice metal 135mm f2 DFA WR lens please.

There is definately a missing lens here - and many have noted its desirability. I have the FA 135mm f2.8 - and I really wonder how so many people get by without a modern classic 200mm focal length lens with AF. This is such an important FL for me. The FA 135mm f2.8 is an awesome lens - and really, it shouldn't be that hard to re-issue...? or am I missing something? Since 135mm = classic 200mm (in aps-c land), if Pentax are serious about sticking with aps-c - it is puzzling why a 135mm hasn't been released earlier. For this reason, I imagine a 150mm f2.8 is unlikely. Then again, we are all so starved for information (any information) - who knows what Pentax has planned for us?

I really hope Pentax release more lenses like the 100mm D-FA macro WR. If FF is coming... (and it is)... (even if it is 2+ years down the track)... it makes sense to start building the lineup now. NOW. You listening Pentax?
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 07-11-2010, 01:16 AM  
Tokina AF 20-35mm
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 14
Views: 11,434
Banitess - what filter thread size version do you have? I notice yours has the distance scale in a window - rather than on the zoom barrel like mine. My 77mm version came with the Tokina BH-773 petal hood. It seems Tokina no longer make the BH-773:

THK Photo Products, Inc.

I think it was replaced with the BH-771. I do remember many recommending the BH-771 hood for this lens. But I am unsure if it fits the 72mm or 77mm version? Or if it is the right version for you?

You should definitely look at this thread:

https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/104299-tokina-...sion-i-ii.html
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 07-10-2010, 09:48 PM  
Tokina AF 20-35mm
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 14
Views: 11,434
Yes - I have this lens. It's certainly a keeper. Although... I must admit, I haven't used it in a long time. It got replaced by the 31mm. And since then, I now do the zooming with my feet! :p The wider end got replaced with a FA 20mm f2.8 - which I absolutely love.

There are a couple of different versions. I have the 77mm filter version, fluro orange band at front, focus distance markings on zoom barrel (so no window). Metal construction - very solid build - built like a tank. (Heavy.) Mine also came with the Tokina BH-773 petal hood. About 7-8 years ago, everyone was going gangbusters over this lens. The rumour was that it was sharper than the Canon 20-35mm lens - at half the price. In fact, there was talk of little IQ difference to much more expensive Tokina AT-X version that came out later - about the time this lens was discontinued. It got replaced by a lesser (in build and IQ) 19-35mm version. The thing about the Tokina 20-35mm AF was the sharpness. And it is very sharp. (This was surprising for a wide angle zoom lens.) Stopped down to f8 - it is tack sharp in centre as any prime / and provided decent corner to corner sharpness. The sharpness is very acceptable wide open too. There are noticeable distortions at either end - especially at 20mm. I found that if you didn't push it wider than say 23mm - everything was okay. (This helped when taking Architectural shots.)

On FF - this lens was pretty amazing. I spent a couple of years with it being glued to the front of my trusty MX - it was the ultimate landscape lens - shooting Velvia-50. The colour isn't bad - but Pentax shooters are a little spoilt in that department. All non-Pentax SMC lenses can fall a little flat sometimes. Actually, it is a very contrasty lens - but you need to be weary of flare - which will wash out the colour and contrast.

For some reason - my copy has a tendency to over-expose. Although, that is easily compensated for. I remember that it can focus really close too. What I always loved was how bad-ass it looks on the front of any Pentax camera. In fact, I just pulled it out and stuck it on my K20D. Seriously, that's a mean looking piece of kit. I think you've just inspired me to pull it out of retirement and go and shoot with it.
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 07-01-2010, 08:48 PM  
2X Tele-Converter
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 9
Views: 4,360
Here it is:
http://www.pentax-manuals.com/manuals/accessories/converter_a_s.pdf
The Pentax 2X-L teleconverter will fit the SMC Pentax-A 400mm 5.6 - and is a designed / matching teleconverter for that lens. I would highly recommend the 2X-L above any other, as it will provide the best quality by a long shot. Trouble is, it can be hard to find and doesn't come cheap. The Pentax 2X-S teleconverter would also be suitable. Note - the manual states that the Pentax 1.4X-S teleconverter is not suitable for the SMC Pentax-A 400mm 5.6 lens. Reason being "vignetting at each corner". Hmm - I wonder if that still holds true on a cropped sensor though...? The Pentax-F 1.7X AF adapter is the another Pentax teleconverter. Not only is it a decent teleconverter - it will also add autofocus functionality to a manual focus lens such as the SMC Pentax-A 400mm 5.6. However, my experience with this teleconverter is mixed. I find it doesn't play nice with exceptionally sharp lenses - as it doesn't seem to be able to pass the sharpness though. There are various non-Pentax K teleconverters out there. Some good, and some better used as paperweights. The better ones seem to be of a 7-element construction. I have used a Vivitar x2 (made by Kiron / Kino) that was pretty awesome.
Forum: Pentax News and Rumors 06-28-2010, 08:26 PM  
would you bet on the new camera being revolutionary or playing catch-up?
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 81
Views: 14,738
And therein lies the brilliance of this stratagy. By choosing unicorns, Pentax force its user base to pony up and buy new unicorn saddles - which, of course, means more money for Pentax. The initial R&D costs of the new unicorn saddles and associated accessories would pale in comparision to the eventual increased sales and profit margins this tactic would generate. It's not just unicorn saddles, it's unicorn shoes, unicorn horn ring flashes, copious amounts of unicorn rainbow fairy dust, etc. You state that you don't think Pentax are up to it. I disagree. In fact, I think Pentax are doomed if they stay with flying ponies and those outdated saddles. Unicorns are so obviously the future... Why can't Pentax see that?
To be honest, I'm only interested in unicorns for the larger, higher viewing perspective. But, you are correct. The longer Pentax procrastinates the transistion to unicorns and continues using those inferior flying ponies, the more Pentax riders we WILL see leaving the brand. And that's a fact.
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 04-12-2010, 08:15 PM  
ELICAR MACRO MC 90mm f2.5 lens
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 11
Views: 17,399
Hi Dave. I think what you have is a Kiron/Kino... see note below.

This lens is also in the lens review database:
PentaxForums.com Third-Party Lens Review Database - 90mm f2.8 Macro

Description: S/N: 28XXXXXX (Komine)
Aperture range: f2.8 - 22
Optical construction: 6 elements, 4 groups
Angle of view: 27 degrees
Weight: 480 g (17 oz.)
Length: 89 mm (3.5 in.)
Filter size: 62 mm
Lens coating: MC (multicoated)
Minimum focusing distance from front element: 14.5 cm (5.7 in.)
Maximum reproduction ratio: 1:1 without adapters or other extenders
Note: In appearance, this lens looks very similar to the Panagor 90mm f2.8 Macro, which is made by Kino Precision.
Forum: Pentax SLR Lens Discussion 04-12-2010, 07:53 PM  
ELICAR MACRO MC 90mm f2.5 lens
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 11
Views: 17,399
From my post in:
-sold-items/65544-sale-[sold]-elicar-v-hq-90mm-f-2-5-1-1-macro-ka
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"I can confirm that this lens was manufactured by Komine. It has two siblings in the 55mm and 135mm focal lengths. While the branded Elicar and Vivitar versions are the most common, it was also released under the Soligor and Panagor brand names. It bares no relation to the Vivitar S1 90mm or Tokina 90mm ("Bokina") as optical formula is quite different - no fixed rear correction lens element. Elicar V-HQ Macro was marketed heavily towards the science and medical (dental) industries during the early 80's.

This is an excellent lens. I have this Elicar version along with its little brother Elicar V-HQ 55mm Macro. Both are very VERY sharp lenses. What I really love about these two is the build quality. It's a very inspiring design. Very solid and heavy. (But not an ultra heavy build like the Kiron). Nice firm rotation. 90mm does more than a 360 degree turn to reach 1:1. The lovely green multi-coating renders a cool colour cast. A little soft at f/2.5, but becomes really sharp at f/4, even at infinity. Weakness: It's an older multi-coating; which makes it a little prone to flare. This (of course) isn't much of an issue with macro work - and on the upside is usually well controlled by it's very recessed front element. There is substantial amount of light fall off in macro mode. What's surprising is how well it excels as a telephoto lens. On film this was my favorite lens and focal length. It produced my best nature images. The bokeh at macro level is really something. Has a habit of producing a busy (but not harsh) bokeh. It's more a more painterly / pastel effect - which I find quite attractive. But it can do the buttery smooth thing as well. Did I mention that it is very sharp?"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This lens is also in the lens review database:
PentaxForums.com Third-Party Lens Review Database - 90mm f2.8 Macro
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Forum: Pentax DSLR Discussion 03-17-2010, 04:31 PM  
Question before I fry my new K-7
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 29
Views: 4,380
But seriously... why does SDM suck so much?
Forum: Sold Items 07-11-2009, 06:36 PM  
For Sale - Sold: Elicar V-HQ 90mm f/2.5 1:1 Macro - KA
Posted By tumbleguts
Replies: 7
Views: 7,848
I can confirm that this lens was manufactured by Komine. It has two siblings in the 55mm and 135mm focal lengths. While the branded Elicar and Vivitar versions are the most common, it was also released under the Soligor and Panagor brand names. It bares no relation to the Vivitar S1 90mm or Tokina 90mm ("Bokina") as optical formula is quite different - no fixed rear correction lens element. Elicar V-HQ Macro was marketed heavily towards the science and medical (dental) industries during the early 80's.

This is an excellent lens. I have this Elicar version along with its little brother Elicar V-HQ 55mm Macro. Both are very VERY sharp lenses. What I really love about these two is the build quality. It's a very inspiring design. Very solid and heavy. (But not an ultra heavy build like the Kiron). Nice firm rotation. 90mm does more than a 360 degree turn to reach 1:1. The lovely green multi-coating renders a cool colour cast. A little soft at f/2.5, but becomes really sharp at f/4, even at infinity. Weakness: It's an older multi-coating; which makes it a little prone to flare. This (of course) isn't much of an issue with macro work - and on the upside is usually well controlled by it's very recessed front element. There is substantial amount of light fall off in macro mode. What's surprising is how well it excels as a telephoto lens. On film this was my favorite lens and focal length. It produced my best nature images. The bokeh at macro level is really something. Has a habit of producing a busy (but not harsh) bokeh. It's more a more painterly / pastel effect - which I find quite attractive. But it can do the buttery smooth thing as well. Did I mention that it is very sharp?

For comparison - I also own the Kiron 105mm, Tokina AT-X 90mm (Bokina), Vivitar S1 90mm, Pentax-FA 100mm, and Pentax-A* 200mm Macro. While all of these will out resolve the Elicar at the macro level - time and time again I find myself choosing the Elicar. Due in large part to it's design - It's a fantastic tool to handle and work with. Highly recommended. Easily worth twice the price.
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