Stop my from buying a DSLR, please.

[Kim Coxon]

Perhaps but the Ltd's are much better lenses. The 77/1.8 beats the 70 hands down. The 43 is a 1.9 and I use the LTM version on the M6 is very good. (The DA40 is based on the old M series pancake and was not one of Pentax's better offering. The 21 is OK but is beaten hands down bt the FA 20/2.8. Overall the DA are OK and very compact but aimed at the "mass market". The Ltds are much better and Give the Canon glass a good run for the money if not beating them at probably a more modest price.

Kim

I think he's referring to the DA 21, DA 40 and DA 70 pancakes.

More support for the K10D - it is everything mentioned above, and more. The big thing about the K10D over the *ist DS (I have both) is the ergonomics and instant access to the full feature set through the improved controls.

 

[peterm1]

Sorry, usually I would discourage people from buying stuff based on impulse, but at this point I am enamored with the M42 lenses and bodies.

A K10D with M42 to K adaptor will instantly give you access to thousands of *VERYGOOD* lenses out there, some of them are outrageously cheap.

Go ahead, realize my dream 🙂

Shadowfox. I understand these sentiments. I have recently purchased the Panasonic L1. Part of the reason (as I justify it to myself) is that they have recently dropped radically in price here in Oz and because I knew that the 4/3 system cameras can use a wide range of M42 and other lenses with adapters. As I have about 20 Takumar lenses and perhaps half as many Nikon mount lenses, I have now purchased the appropriate adapters on eBay and am anxiously awaiting their arrival. So far I have not had buyers remorse (my usual state of mind occasioned by a bad conscience after a purchase.) Perhaps part of the reason for this happy state of affairs is that the kit lens which came with the camera is a 14-50 Leica with image stabilisation that is said to be worth the price I paid for the entire kit. It certainly is a nice lens.

However I cannot wait to try out my manual focus lenses. The following site has lots of info about MF lenses on digital cameras - a growing niche by the looks of it. BTW the Takumars are particularly good for this as they all have a stop down lever which makes the process a little less painful and I have a reasonable selection of preset lenses which are even easier to use. I was a little apprehensive about the idea of using stop down metering figuring that it would make composition hard, then I realised that I do it with my Spotmatic all the time, so hopefully it will not be too problematic.

http://forum.manualfocus.org/viewforum.php?id=2&p=1

 

[ampguy]

Thanks!

Thanks!

yeah, I really don't want a DLSR but and don't want to raw, but do want something that will make nice sharp posters and the film prices are getting out of hand.

BTW, even with all the extra features of the Pentax, the Nikon is rated for higher dynamic range on dpreview. Don't know how that really translates to better photos, but it seems like a good thing.

I don't understand. The D40x is no where near the camera that the K10D is. Then you have to shell out for additional glass, and it will be more expensive than Pentax especially if you want IS.
For the low price of a K10D you essentially get a D200 body with the ability to use all your K lenses and they've now become image stabilized!
Not to mention the cool Pentax features Nikon doesn't have like instant RAW button, 2 RAW modes, in-camera RAW processing, self-cleaning sensor etc.
Can you tell I like the Pentax?! 😀

 

[Kim Coxon]

Interesting but depressingreview have always had a "down" on Pentax.

Kim

yeah, I really don't want a DLSR but and don't want to raw, but do want something that will make nice sharp posters and the film prices are getting out of hand.

BTW, even with all the extra features of the Pentax, the Nikon is rated for higher dynamic range on dpreview. Don't know how that really translates to better photos, but it seems like a good thing.

 

[Michael M]

Go on an buy the DSLR, horses for courses. I use a EOS 5D for landscapes, the R2A for street and friends and a Hassy for portrait work. Works well together : ) of course i'm clos to bankrupt : )

Greets Mike

 

[IGMeanwell]

yeah, I really don't want a DLSR but and don't want to raw, but do want something that will make nice sharp posters and the film prices are getting out of hand.

BTW, even with all the extra features of the Pentax, the Nikon is rated for higher dynamic range on dpreview. Don't know how that really translates to better photos, but it seems like a good thing.

Amp Guy

I am a little biased towards Nikon....

but I will say after upgrading to the Fuji S5... I really am impressed with the JPEGS (though I do shoot mostly RAW).... the colors are very pleasing

Sharpness will require a bump in the internal menu, I can tell you my D80s files are sharper straight out of the camera

but the Dynamic Range of the S5 is unmatched and for anyone who wants a great JPEG shooter with a latitude close to film ... spend the extra money on the S5

I uploaded a few RAF files (Fuji RAW) a few weeks ago for a friend to play with, just to show how much room you have even on a high contrast day move around with

http://www.megaupload.com/?d=KC4K7P2F

Anyone who wants can play with these files.... well as long as they are still up (warning, its a big file)

 

[dlove5]

Just when I thought I had talked myself into delaying getting the K10D for my old Pentax and Takumar lenses, I read this thread.

 

[tedwhite]

Go do it anyway, David. I don't believe you'll regret it. Using my 50/4 Super Macro Takumar on my DS I photographed some seed pods for a BLM research guy and he said they far exceeded his expectations. If you already have the SPII and the Me Super you already have some lenses.

I would suggest you skip the kit lens they'll try to sell you with the body and get the Pentax 16-45 DA ED (I hope I got that last part right). Reviewers regard it highly and I use it most of the time. In 35mm terms it would be a 24-67 1/2 zoom. That range covers most situations.

KIM COXON: Yes, I agree about DPreview. It, and most photo mags are in thrall to Canon.

Even the US mag Consumer Reports, which does cameras frequently, acts as if Pentax cameras didn't exist. They usually list only Canon, Nikon, and Sony when they do DSLR reviews.

 

[Ken Ford]

I just Googled the prices on the K10D. Madre de Dios!!! I can't believe you can get them that inexpensively!

I'm firmly committed to Nikon, but if all my Nikon gear disappeared today I'd probably replace the DSLR stuff at least with Pentax. The K10D is one tasty body, and I do like Pentax glass. I had a chance to play with a K10D/battery grip/kit lens Sunday and was reminded just how right Pentax got this one.

Does Pentax do a 80-200 2.8 comparable to Canikon? 95% of my railroad stuff is done with one.

 

[anandi]

Heh. Misery loves company, David.

Thanks for the input, all. I'm giving in, but in January.

Hopefully there'll be some K10D stock after New Year's. I'm going on a trip and plan to use my DS until then. Using the CR-3Vs while on travel and some Panasonic Oxyrides as backup will really save me from bringing extra rechargeables and a charger.

I do have a DS for the trip, and plan on bring a nice light kit of SMC lenses. The DS I really am happy with the way it works with MF lenses, and the size is great (for me). I've held the K10D and in my hands feels better than the D200.

Cheers,
-Amit

 

[Kim Coxon]

They did an 80-200/2.8 FA that comes up not too infrequently on eBay but it is expensive and like all the FA lenses covers the full format so can be used on film bodies as well. It is also highly regarded. http://www.bdimitrov.de/kmp/lenses/zooms/long/FA80-200f2.8.html

The have also just brought out a 50-135/2.8 DA* lens which is digital only. With the crop factor this equates to 80-200 in full frame terms. I have just got one of these and again it is a very good lens. http://www.bdimitrov.de/kmp/lenses/zooms/long/DA50-135f2.8.html

There are also relatively fast 200 and 300 primes due to be released soon.

Kim

I just Googled the prices on the K10D. Madre de Dios!!! I can't believe you can get them that inexpensively!

I'm firmly committed to Nikon, but if all my Nikon gear disappeared today I'd probably replace the DSLR stuff at least with Pentax. The K10D is one tasty body, and I do like Pentax glass. I had a chance to play with a K10D/battery grip/kit lens Sunday and was reminded just how right Pentax got this one.

Does Pentax do a 80-200 2.8 comparable to Canikon? 95% of my railroad stuff is done with one.

 

[tedwhite]

Ken:

I have the made-for-Pentax-DSLR 50-200, which would be 75 to 300 in 35mm film camera equivalent. Ought to be close enough for your railroad photo needs.

 

[photogdave]

yeah, I really don't want a DLSR but and don't want to raw, but do want something that will make nice sharp posters and the film prices are getting out of hand.

BTW, even with all the extra features of the Pentax, the Nikon is rated for higher dynamic range on dpreview. Don't know how that really translates to better photos, but it seems like a good thing.

I agree with Kim and Pete. DPReview is no longer (in my opinion) a trustworthy, unbiased review site. Ever since they started trashing Panasonic with unfair high noise reports I've lost faith in them.
The Fuji S5 is the ultimate DSLR for your Nikon glass is you want the best dynamic range, colors and skin tones. I've shot with the S2, S3 and now S5 with my Nikon glass and have always been very impressed with the IQ. The cameras always used to be slow the S5 allows you to shoot at a good pace. Here in Canada they still sell for less than a D200.

 

[dlove5]

This not helping.

One of the Takumars I do not have that I have always wanted is the 50/4 Super Macro Takumar that Ted mentions. My favorite camera store in town has had a nice one for around $60 to $70. It has been there for at least 6 months.
Sounds like I may have to go see if the Macro is still there.

I hate going there though. Last time I was there I picked up a beautiful looking Vivitar Series 1 80-210 (second version) for $60. While I was there I tried it out on the K10D. That should work real well for shooting my daughter's high shcool soccer team this spring.

 

[vrgard]

Go do it anyway, David. I don't believe you'll regret it. Using my 50/4 Super Macro Takumar on my DS I photographed some seed pods for a BLM research guy and he said they far exceeded his expectations. If you already have the SPII and the Me Super you already have some lenses.

I would suggest you skip the kit lens they'll try to sell you with the body and get the Pentax 16-45 DA ED (I hope I got that last part right). Reviewers regard it highly and I use it most of the time. In 35mm terms it would be a 24-67 1/2 zoom. That range covers most situations.

This thread is really starting to tempt me as well. I have a few old Takumar lenses and had been thinking that the Pentax K10D would be fun to use with them.

Hey Ted, I have a question for you. You mentioned the Pentax 16-45 lens which I believe is an f4.0 lens. I read a recommendation somewhere to instead get the Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 EX DC Macro Autofocus lens since it's faster. Now, my recollection is that the Pentax lenses as a general rule are superior to the Sigma lenses. So, my question is simply whether you have any thoughts, views or opinions about the relative merits of these two lenses for use with the Pentax K10D? (so much for a simple question, huh? 😱 )

Thanks in advance for any thoughts you, or anyone else, cares to share.

-Randy

 

[ampguy]

yup

yup

The Fuji S5, new F mount Voightlanders, D3, old F3 film bodies, etc. are why I want to do the Nikon thing if I do it at all. I like dpreviews, not perfect, but usually pretty good info. IMHO.

I agree with Kim and Pete. DPReview is no longer (in my opinion) a trustworthy, unbiased review site. Ever since they started trashing Panasonic with unfair high noise reports I've lost faith in them.
The Fuji S5 is the ultimate DSLR for your Nikon glass is you want the best dynamic range, colors and skin tones. I've shot with the S2, S3 and now S5 with my Nikon glass and have always been very impressed with the IQ. The cameras always used to be slow the S5 allows you to shoot at a good pace. Here in Canada they still sell for less than a D200.

 

[peterm1]

I must admit to having given serious thought to the Fuji range of SLR cameras. In appearance I actually prefer the S3 to the latest version (love the built in vertical hand grip) but in performance I think they all have something going for them in their color rendition. I certainly do not mind a slight amount of softness in photos as I have to tweak my D70s shots in Photoshop anyway. So what if I have to ratchet the USM slide up a tiny bit when the color is so great.

However, the one thing that bugs me about the "lower" end Nikons (well anything below D200) is that they refuse to meter with manual lenses. Surely Nikon could have added this functionality. I believe that the Fujis have the same limitation. Too bad. And of course because of the Nikon register distance I dont think there is any other marque of lens that can be used on Nikon bodies. If this were not so, I would pay the extra and be damned and buy a Fuji. These factors influenced me to buy a Panasonic L1 as my second digital body. The camera will not only meter with Nikon MF glass but it will also shoot with non AI lenses of which I have a few. Even the D200 does not do this. I will keep my D70s for now and will wait till I receive the lens adapters to use my Takumars and manual Nikons on the Panasonic and decide then what to do. I still think the D70s is a fine camera but the appeal of being able to stick a piece of 40 year old glass on the front of a digital body is something that appeals mightily.

 

[IGMeanwell]

I must admit to having given serious thought to the Fuji range of SLR cameras. In appearance I actually prefer the S3 to the latest version (love the built in vertical hand grip) but in performance I think they all have something going for them in their color rendition. I certainly do not mind a slight amount of softness in photos as I have to tweak my D70s shots in Photoshop anyway. So what if I have to ratchet the USM slide up a tiny bit when the color is so great.

However, the one thing that bugs me about the "lower" end Nikons (well anything below D200) is that they refuse to meter with manual lenses. Surely Nikon could have added this functionality. I believe that the Fujis have the same limitation. Too bad. And of course because of the Nikon register distance I dont think there is any other marque of lens that can be used on Nikon bodies. If this were not so, I would pay the extra and be damned and buy a Fuji. These factors influenced me to buy a Panasonic L1 as my second digital body. The camera will not only meter with Nikon MF glass but it will also shoot with non AI lenses of which I have a few. Even the D200 does not do this. I will keep my D70s for now and will wait till I receive the lens adapters to use my Takumars and manual Nikons on the Panasonic and decide then what to do. I still think the D70s is a fine camera but the appeal of being able to stick a piece of 40 year old glass on the front of a digital body is something that appeals mightily.

The Fuji S5 meters with all Nikon lenses ... even the AI-AIS manual focus

In fact it has a little electronic rangefinder for manual focusing ... though pre-AI lenses are not necessarily recommended to put on the D200/S5 body

 

[anandi]

However, the one thing that bugs me about the "lower" end Nikons (well anything below D200) is that they refuse to meter with manual lenses. Surely Nikon could have added this functionality.

Peter, I agree totally. They could have at only marginally extra cost in the volumes they are producing. After holding out for a couple of years for a D200 and collecting a fairly nice collection of Nikon glass to complement my F3 and FM2n I gave up. Sure the D200s have come down in price but they're still 2x the cost of a K10D. The D80 with AI lens metering would have suited my needs perfectly. I can only think that the Nikon Product Managers consciously wanted users to buy new G and AF-S lenses and not build the most versatile camera for their lower and mid-range cameras. But still they market them as being backward compatible in mounts, which is only a half-truth with the D40/80.

-Amit

 

[Solinar]

Amit - are you aware that the K10D current has a $100 rebate good through 1/31/08?

B&H sells the K10D body for $699 - subtract the rebate and it is $599 USD.