Search for a better 28

mfunnell said:
I suspect (but can't be sure) that David is referring to the "spots" problems with M-Rokkor 28mm lenses, rather than the M-Hexanons.

Back to the OP's question, though:

If speed is what you're after then an f2.8 lens doesn't seem to buy you much, so an f2 (or 1.9) from CV or Leica seems indicated - but if it's the latter it will cost you. Of course, if you're just after another nice lens then other opportunities present themselves.

...Mike
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Yes, sorry I meant the M-Rokkor - those spot issues are real and widespread at least on the 28's. I tend to get Konica and Minolta confused lately, partly because they did in fact merge not long before their mutual demise (at least in the photo world).
 
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Indeed, it's the Minolta 28 that's known to have issues in terms of lens "spotting"; I've heard of no such issues with the 28 M-Hex.

Since I had to settle on one lens in each of three focal lengths, and consistency was a big deal, I went with the M-Hexes, and haven't been sorry. As far as low-light shooting is concerned: modern high-speed emulsions have done wonders in recent years:

jeslyn1a.jpg

Jeslyn, Greenpoint, Brooklyn, 2003

(Technical: Hexar RF, M-Hexanon 28mm f.2.8, Fuji Pro 800)


- Barrett
 
naruto said:
An update on the 28 search: The seller decided to sell it off the elmarit to someone else. :(

After a *let-me-splurge* moment, my senses seemed to have returned (Thanks to Tom A - I need to add to that thread), and I got a Ultron 28/2 from the local dealer.

Initial impressions: The lens feels really light, compared to my 50/1.4 Nikkor LTM. The handling is very smooth and aperture/focussing is very nice. My only grouse is that with the hood on, it's very difficult to put on/take off the lens cap. Does this lens take a square hood?
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I can't see any evidence that there is from Stephen's pages at Cameraquest.com. But that doesn't mean it doesn't exist (or can be adapted from another lens). The older version, the f1,9 has a slide on cap that goes over the hood, which is what I have. I also have a 35/f1,4 with hood (vented) where I have to have a snap om cap inside the hood, not as convenient.
 
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I am also in an eternal search for a perfect 28... my opinion up to this point, is that beyond the Summicron, which is not ideal for everything, as it is high contrast and has an obnoxious hood, the best bang for the buck is the converted G Biogon, you can order from japan exposures. I also like the 1.9 Ultron, for B&W more than the f 2.0 type ( also because it focuses symmetrically). Here's a recent shot almost wide open:
3965369852_c3aa32c2ce_b.jpg
 
I just got a CV 28/2 myself. I've only used it a little so far, but I think I am already liking it. I do have to take off the hood to put on a filter, but it doesn't bother me too much...

 
mfogiel said:
I am also in an eternal search for a perfect 28... my opinion up to this point, is that beyond the Summicron, which is not ideal for everything, as it is high contrast and has an obnoxious hood, the best bang for the buck is the converted G Biogon, you can order from japan exposures. I also like the 1.9 Ultron, for B&W more than the f 2.0 type ( also because it focuses symmetrically). Here's a recent shot almost wide open:
/2591/3965369852_c3aa32c2ce_b.jpg[/IMG]
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I hate to say it, but I told you :) The 28/1.9 is really great and at this point undervalued, IMO. Very nice, slightly mute/pastell color rendering too, IMO.

Congrats on the new lens, Ashwin !
 
I don't think you can beat the hex 28.
I did a thread on it about a month ago, all at f11 and f16, in the Konica forum.
There are others.
Krosya has a number of them as well...sometimes the good stuff comes after a little waiting.
 
If you shoot mainly with BW, go for a CV as it's really a bargain.

But I still suggest you spend some more money to get a Konica., it's a much much better lens.
 
So, here are some shots from the 28/2 with the APX100 in Xtol+Rodinal.

@f/5.6 Sunny
3972829949_8193f176bd.jpg


@f/8 Indoors
3973597006_182f5c9931.jpg


@f/2 Indoors
3972832623_e9084dba8b.jpg


@f/2 Indoors
3972833465_b858f3141f.jpg


@f/2.8 Indoors
3973600026_17c1625e50.jpg


@f/2.8 Shade
3972835277_8a38edd191.jpg


The scans are a bit crappy, since it's a new scanner. :)
 
Debating about a version 4 E46, or the CV 28/2. I don't have any German glass for my M4-P. I have the classic 40mm Nokton MC, the 50 1.1, and a Canadian Summicron 90/2. I have heard that the 28mm, especially since the M4-P has frame lines for it, is the lens that tends to be left on the body the most. I will probably pay more for a version 4 28/2.8 than a faster 28mm/2 - Am I heading towards the brand mystique, or is there something to be said about the value of Leica 28 over a faster CV 28 ?
 
I have the 28 ASPH 2.8, and the Hex.
I like them both so much that I am going to do a side-by-side shoot and see which I like best.
For the money, I think it's the Hexanon.
They are that close.
Unless you do a lot indoors with the 28 and don't use auxiliary light, the cron doesn't make sense with those two options available.
 
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