R3A w/ Nokton 40/1.4 vs. Konica Auto S2

[GSNfan]

In my opinion the less than $100 KAS2 that i bought recently just for fun produces better results than my $1000 combo R3A and Nokton 40/1.4 SC. In fact KAS2 feels more sturdy, its RF patch has better contrast, focuses smoother and hence faster than Nokton 40. The lens on KAS2 is better in my eyes, its contrast and sharpness not to mention wide open it just looks better than Nokton 40. The KAS2 lens makes Nokton images look plasticy imo... this could be placebo, but I just wanted to hear if others had similar experience.

 

[pb908]

Once I had yashica GL & Gx (40mm f1.7), i had tested both against hexar af (35mm f2) & hexar rf + VC 35mm f1.4. Wide open with fuji color film, none of them beat the yasicas result !! Sharp, contrasty (at least compare to haf) and very deep saturated color. I was thingking i put different film, but i was wrong. Yashica give saturated color more than the two hexars. 40$ camera vs >400$ cameras.

 

[Vilk]

the S2 is a flimsy box, well past it's serviceable lifespan; it can fall apart in your hands any day, in mid-roll, right when you need it, and it won't be worth repairing. the bessa is nothing to write home about either, but at least there are parts for it and service centers to revive it

the only part i agree with is the optical quality of the lens, a spirit definitely worthy of a better body than that 1960s electromechanical junkyard it was imprisoned in

:angel:

 

[Krosya]

I dont know if KAS is better, but maybe just different. I have both (well my Konica is KAS, not KAS2) and it's a superb camera, yet it does have it's shortcomings - reason I have CV 40 among other things. But in a way you are right - Those Konicas are great cameras with fantastic lenses.

 

[paulfish4570]

my k S III's 47/1.9 is a dandy lens ...

 

[GSNfan]

The best thing about these vintage fixed lens RFs are that one can shoot with them with complete peace of mind in all sorts of conditions, in less than ideal locals and still get great results.

Vilk: The KAS2 is one solid piece of steel at 750g, you might have got one in bad condition.

 

[Vilk]

Vilk: The KAS2 is one solid piece of steel at 750g, you might have got one in bad condition.

i was talking about the electromechanical design around the glass, not about any particular specimen. "piece of steel" i might agree with... but then again, what do i know?

😎

 

[GSNfan]

i was talking about the electromechanical design around the glass, not about any particular specimen. "piece of steel" i might agree with... but then again, what do i know?

😎

I don't know about its electronic parts, never plan to use them as well, I always use it in full manual mode and if it can give me accurate shutter speeds even though its 40 years old and costs next to nothing, I'm not going to complain about it.

but then again, what do i know?

I haven't the foggiest.

 

[btgc]

In Konica III mirror rests in stable metal frame. KAS and KAS2 are known for their fallen RF mirrors because they were fastened by glue. That's what I call false economy.

 

[GSNfan]

My only complain with KAS2 is that its pretty heavy if you carry it strapped around your wrist for long periods. A DIY grip would help it a lot.