new 50 for my FE2?

[morgan]

I got an Fe2 and 50/1.8 off of ebay a few months ago. I love the body, the lens not so much. It's very sharp, but too contrasty for my taste. Anybody have another recommendation? How's the 1.4?

 

[Rob-F]

I have the f/1.4 as well as the 1.8. Yes, the 1.4 is lower in contrast, as well as being a very decent performer. I've had no complaints with mine.

 

[peterc]

You could also consider the Nikkor-H or Nikkor H.C 50/2. The lens is an excellent performer and generally quite cheap. Make sure you get one that has been AI converted for the FE2.

 

[sanmich]

I think there are several different optical designs for the 50 1.8 out there.
I know very little about the different models but the old style 1.8 is a completely different beast than the new flat one.
You should dig into old discussions abou this.

 

[ChrisPlatt]

The 50/2 AI Nikkor is highly regarded.

Chris

 

[former member]

If the 50/1.8 is too contrasty, you need to look for an older, single-coated 50/1.4 or 5.8cm F1.4 that has been converted for AI. The 5.8cm F1.4 is lower contrast, almost looks like a Summarit. But it will have to be AI converted by modifying the aperture ring.

 

[hans voralberg]

Try the 50/1.4 K type, quite low contrast and has very pastel-like color. Check here for reference.

 

[CK Dexter Haven]

I have a 50/1.8 Series E and it's my new favorite lens. I think the contrast is low to moderate, though. Certainly not "high." At least, not with APX100/Rollei Retro 100 in D-76/ID-11. If yours isn't a Series E, you might want to try one - they're cheap. Or, go with the older Nikkors as suggested above. Certainly not something newer from Nikon.

Or, perhaps an Ultron 40/2?

 

[morgan]

Thanks for the advice everyone. The 2.0 sounds great, but I think I want/need the extra speed of the 1.4. My 1.8 seems very modern in how it draws, if that makes any sense, and looking for a converted SC makes sense as well. I'll probably just try the 1.4. I'm always looking for lenses that draw super smooth and buttery, like my cv 35/1.2. Is the 1.4 anything like that?

I'm going to build out the kit with either a 28 or the 35/1.4 and then something longer lens (people seem to love one of the 105s). I really love the FE2, it's small and rugged. I just kind of toss it on my shoulder and go. The lenses are relatively inexpensive. I've been taking it to the beach a lot, where I don't want to endanger my R-D1.