Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2000/08/23
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]On Wed, 23 August 2000, "Simon Coates" wrote: > > I would like to add my input to the above thread. > > I very recently changed from Minolta AF to Leica R, and purchased the > 28/2.8, 50/2 and 100/2.8 APO. I have the Minolta 28/2.8 and 50/1.7 so was > able to test these lenses directly against each other. > > I stuck a two-page newspaper spread on a wall and took pictures of it with > both cameras tripod-mounted at all apertures, which although would not give > me lpm figures, showed how the lenses resolved fine text. My conclusions: > > 50mm lenses > The Leica Summicron at the centre at f/2 (its' 'worst' aperture) was sharper > than the Minolta at any aperture. In the edges the Summicron was far > sharper. I have read tests on the Minolta 1.7 and 1.4 lenses and the 1.7 is > supposed to be a better performer... > > 28mm lenses > My Elmarit is the latest version, and in case you are wondering has a razor > sharp performance. At f/2.8 it almost outperforms the Minolta at any > aperture. From f/4 it is clearly sharper than the Minolta at any aperture. > The Minolta has quite severe vignetting at f2.8 and f/4. The Elmarit has > only slight vignetting fully open, which disappears by f/3.5. > > Overall, the Leica lenses are far sharper than the Minoltas. Of course, > lens sharpness is only one measure of performance. I have used 'el cheapo' > Jessops ISO 200 print film in the Leica and comparing the prints to the > Minolta with Fuji Reala 100, the Leicas show far better colour saturation; I > usually use Velvia with the same result. The 100 apo has amazing colour > saturation! > When asked why I use Leica R, this is what I mean when I say "it's the glass". It has to be seen to be believed. Doug Herr Birdman of Sacramento http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/telyt - -------------------------------------------------- Visit the Northwestern Alumni Association portal page at http://www.nualumni.com to get free web-based e-mail and many other exciting features.