RE: [Leica] One Lens System

["Dan Honemann" <danh@selectsa.com>]

I concur with Andrew, and he will tell you that we can deliberate
_endlessly_ on this topic. :)

The 50/2 was my first choice for just one lens: great value in the Leica
line, and a versatile focal length (for my needs, anyway).

If I had it to do over again, though, I'd start with the 35/2 asph.  That
and the 75/1.4 would likely make a great two lens line-up.

For a 3 lens combination, it's hard to argue with Andre's choices: 28/2
asph, 50/1.4, and 90--though I'd chose the elmarit over the apo 'cron here
for the weight savings, and you'd have a side benefit of having all three
lenses share a common filter size (46).

Myself, I'm planning on 4 M's in my kit: 28/2 asph, 35/2 asph, 50/2, and
75/1.4.  Although I may well replace the 50/2 with either a new 50/1.4
(if/when it comes out), or the 90/2.8.

Dan

> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us
> [mailto:owner-leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us]On Behalf Of Andrew
> Moore
> Sent: Sunday, December 17, 2000 2:16 PM
> To: Terry Sham
> Cc: leica-users@mejac.palo-alto.ca.us
> Subject: Re: [Leica] One Lens System
>
>
>
> > Do you agree to use Noctilux 50mm f/1 as the only lens in the M
> system? Will
> > the Summilux 35mm f/1.4 be better?
>
> We can get you started but you'll end up having to make the final
> decision, because you know your subject matter and shooting style better
> than we do.
>
> Both are excellent all-around performers, and neither outdoes the other in
> terms of low light "hand-holdability".  Contrary to what you might hear
> about the performance of the Noct at smaller apertures, its performance
> there is good.
>
> Personally I would side with the 35 since that length is more useful to
> me, and also because size and weight are important to me.  In fact I would
> really prefer the 35/2 ASPH for a one-lens system, mainly because of its
> size, weight, consistant performance across apertures, flat field, and
> pleasing bokeh.  An all-around winner.  In a pinch you can push film (or
> change it).
>
> I can think of seven excellent "one lens system" lenses:
>
> 35/2 pre-ASPH
> 35/2 ASPH
> 35/1.4 ASPH
> 50/2
> 50/1
> 50/2.8
> 50/1.4
>
> At this it's more approprite for you to ask yourself, not us, because you
> need to weigh factors such as size, weight, preferred length, and each
> lens's own characteristics, all of which can be very subjective.
>
> --Andrew
> NO ARCHIVE
>