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Re: [OM] Best zoom lens

Subject: Re: [OM] Best zoom lens
From: "John A. Lind" <jlind@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
Date: Sat, 31 May 2003 17:17:27 -0400
At 12:34 5/27/03, you wrote:
Hi Zuiks:

A lister on the Leica list commented that he had purchased a Leica R 6.2,
and was very happy with the zoom lenses he had purchased.  He noted that his
other system was OM, and "OM has only one decent zoom".  I assume that this
was a reference to the 35~80 f/2.8.

Any other nominees for stellar zoom?  To make this less impossible, let's
limit it to the "wide to short tele" category.


The Tamron 35-105/2.8 Adaptall II mount:
(Not to be confused with the current 28-105/2.8)
Qualifies for "Big Bang for the Buck" category when compared to the Zuiko 35-80. Got rave reviews . . . not just in the magazines, but from users also. A constant aperture one-touch, which is its downside as the very heavy glass tends to cause it to extend on its own if it's held vertically for long periods (it will hold position for a while). Other than that, it's very smooth operating focus ring and zoom extension. I just bought one and have run perhaps a dozen rolls through it. Every bit as good as the Zuiko 35-105/3.5~4.5 in contrast and apparent sharpness . . . but bigger and heavier. Be aware that when used wide open at its long end and at closer range (about 5-6 feet) you can end up with depth of field that is only a few inches at best! Has a solid feel to it.

Zuiko 35-105/3.5~4.5:
Plenty has already been said about this lens. Has a marvelous "close-up" feature I wish the Tamron had . . . works identically to a variable extension tube with a short-throw helical. Surprisingly magnificent performer for all the elements and groups. Only wish it were a stop faster as the viewfinder focusing aids black out in low light and it's harder to focus at the short end than the faster Tamron . . . sometimes requires going long, focusing and then pulling back. Not as heavy as the Tamron, but larger and heavier than all the other Zuikos in its focal length range.

-- John

I've only taken a few shots with my new Zuiko 35~70 /f4, but it looks
promising.  The Tamron 35~70 f/3.5 is a dandy, and also has a macro
capability.  The Tokina 28~70 also has macro, but is a bit "plastic" for my
taste.  The Kiron 28~105 is a stellar lens.  If only it were faster and
lighter...

Bill Stanke


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