OT: KM DSLR users out there?

[ray_g]

I thought this might be of interest, given the number of M42 users here.

I have come across some adapters for use of M42 lenses on Maxxum DSLR's. Anybody try this yet? Since the anti-shake is in the body, it would be awesome if the old takumars would be "image stabilized" on, say, the Maxxum 7D body.

Since it also has one of the brightest VF's, manual focusing should be much easier, too, without having to get an expensive third party screen.

 

[T_om]

Interesting idea. The IS system on the Maxxum did not get exactly rave reviews, but it seems to work. Might make a very good low light camera if the noise level is acceptable. The problem is that if the noise is unacceptable at, say, ISO 800, then the IS system is not really gaining you anything over a Canon 20D with its exceptionally low noise at 3200.

Tom

 

[bmattock]

I thought this might be of interest, given the number of M42 users here.

I have come across some adapters for use of M42 lenses on Maxxum DSLR's. Anybody try this yet? Since the anti-shake is in the body, it would be awesome if the old takumars would be "image stabilized" on, say, the Maxxum 7D body.

Since it also has one of the brightest VF's, manual focusing should be much easier, too, without having to get an expensive third party screen.

I considered it when I bought my DSLR, and for just that reason. I ended up going with the Pentax *ist DS on price, bright viewfinder (vs Canon Rebel), and ability to also take Pentax K mount lenses. However, if the Maxxum 5D had been out at that time, it might have been a closer call. I wanted a split-screen focusing spot on my Pentax DSLR, and the Pentax literature said there was one available. The reviews all talked about it like they had one in hand and had used it. Turned out to be vaporware, but finding that out from Pentax was like pulling teeth. They just didn't want to admit it. Argh. But anyway, I like the *ist DS, and the noise level is OK at 3200 if I desaturate to B&W. I agree the IS would be nice. And it hasn't gotten terrible reviews - Keppler loved it. In fact, I can't remember an American camera magazine saying anything bad about anything in so long...which is why I subscribe to AP from England at nose-bleed prices.

Best Regards,

Bill Mattocks

 

[ray_g]

The reviews I have read showed acceptable noise levels at high ISO's. Mike Johnston raves about it, even at 1600. The 5D is nice, but I prefer the bright VF and more intuitive control layout of the 7 body. Biggest factor right now, is the after the rebate, price is down to $879.