Noct vs. Hex image comparison at f/1.4

[awilder]

With all the chatter on the 50/1 Noctilux and 50/1.2 Hexanon M, I thought I'd dig up my old test negs on the Noctilux to compare with the Hexanon at their lowest common demoninator I tested: f/1.4. Please note that the only manipulation to the scan was to adjust the color balance of the Noctilux as it's known for having a warm color cast and with incandescent lighting, it's even worse. No manipulation of color for the Hexanon was done. First, the full frame to demonstrate overall image quality and light falloff.

 

[awilder]

Next is the central target.

 

[awilder]

Next the intermediate target.

 

[awilder]

Lastly, the right edge.

 

[awilder]

In terms of light falloff at f/1.4, note that the Noctilux has more (by design) and this is said to help control aberration which is nicely shown by some improved edge sharpness over the Hexanon. OTOH, the Hexanon appears sharper with better contrast and less astigmatism over the majority of the frame. This is partly related to the rather high degree of focus shift inherant with the Noctilux affecting apertures smaller than f/1 as the lens is actually optimized for wide open shooting in this respect. The Noct's focus shift issue tends to hold resolution and contrast at relataively low levels on axis until about f/4 where dof starts to offset it's effect resulting in very good image quality. By f/5.6-8 quality is outstanding and comparable to the Summicron or Summilux except at the extreme corners. The Hexanon behaves a bit better with steady improvement for each stop and is not hampered by excessive focus shift.