Pentax-DA 1.4x AW AF Rear Converter

DA 1.4x and A 1.4X-L Compared

For this test we used our FA* 300mm F2.8 lens paired with the DA 1.4x converter and the A 1.4X-L converter, respectively. We compare these images with an upsampled image shot witout a converter.

All images were shot with a Pentax K-3 from the same vantage point and with the lens fully open at ISO 100.  The distance was approximately 100 feet.

Click on any thumbnail to enlarge.

A 1.4X-L
DA 1.4x
Upsampled

The A 1.4X-L Rear Converter is slightly better that the DA 1.4x converter in terms of resolution. This is not that surprising, since this A-series converter was sold as a matching converter to the FA* 300mm F2.8 lens, and it is optimized for telephoto lenses. But the difference compared to the DA 1.4x converter is small, and we are pleased to see that the DA converter is up there with the best in image quality. The DA converter also exhibits a bit less purple fringing, which can be attributed to its newer HD coating.

The upsampled image cannot compete with either of the teleconverters, so using any one of the two tested rear converters is preferable to upsampling.

Note that the A1.4X-L rear Converter cannot be used with most lenses including the DA*300mm lens due to the converter's protruding front element.  Thus, the DA converter is much more versatile than the older A1.4x-L converter.

Pentax-A 1.4x-L Teleconverter optimized for telephoto lenses