Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1999/03/12

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Subject: Re: [Leica] Older 35 Summicron better bokeh?
From: ray tai <razerx@netvigator.com>
Date: Fri, 12 Mar 1999 20:56:56 +0800

I went to my local dealer, compared the ASPH and non-ASPH 35 Summicron chrome
versions and bought the non-ASPH.  I didn't base my decision on wide open
sharpness or bokeh but rather how well it fit in my coat pocket while mounted on
the M2 even with the hood on.


D Khong wrote:

> >Can you elaborate on the differences in the bokeh between the two versions?
> >I have heard that the asph has (god forbid) Nikon-like harshness.  How about
> >that Leica 3-D effect?  I would hesitate to give up "Leica" characteristics
> >for wide open corner sharpness.  Thanks, ray.
> >
> >
>
> The 3-D effect of the non-asph is superb, especially when used wide open.
> It isolates the main subject well.
>
> Their bokeh is harder to describe.   For eg. when there are bare tree
> branches in the background, the asph version will render them stringy and
> dehydrated looking. To me, this is harsh bokeh and tends to irritate.  I
> have also noticed that the Contax 50/1.5 Sonnar for the IIa tend to produce
> a similarly harsh  bokeh.   A similar shot with the non-asph will produce a
> pastel-like pleasing looking background.
>
> Dan K.