Summilux ASPH 50mm/1.4 - anything similar?

A Summilux Comparison

A Summilux Comparison

So here are a couple of shots done for non-scientific comparison between the pre-aspheric (e46 version) and aspheric versions of the Summilux 50. Both shot at f1.4 at a distance of 0.8 meters. It's kind of a worst case scenario - using the largest aperture at near the close focusing limit. It does show some of the differences in both low-value and out of focus rendering between the two.

More specifics: shot on an M8, both with UV/IR filters attached, lens detection set to "off", daylight white balance set, and using manual exposure. There was a slight rotation of the camera on the tripod head when mounting the second lens, however the tripod itself remained stationary. The pre-aspheric shot appears first.
 

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Adding the Rokkor 40 To The Mix

Adding the Rokkor 40 To The Mix

Similar to the test above, but shooting at f2.0 to accommodate the Rokkor's maximum aperture. The Rokkor appears first, followed by the pre-aspheric and the aspheric.
 

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  • asph_50_2.0.jpg
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So here are a couple of shots done for non-scientific comparison between the pre-aspheric (e46 version) and aspheric versions of the Summilux 50. Both shot at f1.4 at a distance of 0.8 meters. It's kind of a worst case scenario - using the largest aperture at near the close focusing limit. It does show some of the differences in both low-value and out of focus rendering between the two.

More specifics: shot on an M8, both with UV/IR filters attached, lens detection set to "off", daylight white balance set, and using manual exposure. There was a slight rotation of the camera on the tripod head when mounting the second lens, however the tripod itself remained stationary. The pre-aspheric shot appears first.
i can't see ANY difference.
 
i can't see ANY difference.

The differences can be seen to my eye. In the shot by the asph lens the leaves nearest and in sharpest focus seem to stand out more from the background: to me there is more of a 3D image. The background fuzziness of the spaces between the leaves is also different.

Whether you can see this, or if it matters, or if you prefer one to the other is a different question - but they are different in comparison. Without the comparison I wouldn't be able to put my finger on it of course, so perhaps we are discussing abtuse concepts here...
 
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You can't judge differences on a computer screen and on pictures this size, IMHO.

What I can tell you is that pictures at 1.4 come out tack sharp and with an apparent greater DOF than with other faster lenses. It is an incredible performer in low light!
 
Has anyone from the US ordered from Robert White using the 15% rebate? If so, can you please give me some info? I would love to own a copy of the 50 Summilux Asph.
 
Order through their website before the 31st and you get the 15% rebate. They initially charge your credit card the full amount (plus shipping), then they will reimburse your cc 15% of the purchase price. Contact them w/ questions, they are very responsive.
 
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