Review 2 of 9
Price Paid:
$325.00
from eBay Summary: I can't complain about the price vs. the quality of the lens. Even at twice the price, it's a solid piece of glass. It's Zeiss, the bokeh (detail in background)is incredible and the colors are richer and more natural that any lens I've ever used.
I've never experienced a vignetting problem, but I don't shoot at f4. I've just always been bowled over at the quality of the optics, and at about $300.00, I don't think I could've done better.
Also, never have had a flair problem. I do a ton of studio work and the lens just seems to "absorb" what you don't want. If you do intentional flair, it doesn't seem to wash out the shot.
I'm giving this lens a 4, 5 for value. A 5 would be something that isn't attainable, unless it's the ultra rare Zeiss 85mm 1.2 with the 3 leaf aperature 9for a Rollei SL35). And, that lens is unattainable. But, I do love this lens and I wouldn't trade it in, except for the aformentioned Zeiss.
If you are a Contax user, get the lens.
Bargains can be found, if you're up at stupid o'clock in the morning and happen to come across it on eBay at the right moment. This guy had a Buy It Now Price of the $325.00 incl shipping... so yeah, I jumped on it. And that's whay, for value, it gets 5 stars. Strengths: Tack sharp, natural contrast and phenominal optics that consistently deliver. Weaknesses: It is a tad long and I would rather have a seperate zoom ring, then a focus ring. Not a push-pull zoom as it is.
I do wish that the design allowed for a tripod collar or balanced better with the camera.
Would also be nice to have an f2.8. But, who am I to complain? If I want all that, then I'll get a Nikon 80-200 ED for $900.00 used instead. And it would be a gargantuan lens! Similar Products Used: Nikon 80-200 ED
Tamron 38-100 3.8 (ancient but lovely lens, first generation Adaptall) Customer Service: It's used, so I don't think that they are going to pay attention to me.
So long as I don't abuse it, I don't think it's going to give me any trouble.
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