Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2001/05/03
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Unfortunately, 35 is the one focal length in the latest M lineup where you are (in my estimation) forced to make a choice between speed and bokeh (if money is not a factor). Both lenses are so close as to be equal in terms of resolution (Lux slightly better in the center; Cron slightly better in the corners--but who can really tell?), contrast, color rendition, and resistance to flare. Of course the Lux is slightly larger and heavier, but not so much as to make a real difference (to me, at least). So the only significant differences are price, speed, and bokeh. The Lux can occasionally demonstrate double-line backgrounds, and its images have a rougher out of focus rendition than those made with the Cron. If that's important to you (it is to me), you're stuck with a difficult decision: the extra stop vs. smoother bokeh. I got such a great deal (thanks, Joseph!) on a Lux that I opted for speed. But I have to say the 35/1.4 asph has the roughest bokeh of any of my Leica M lenses (the others being the 50/2 and 75/1.4), and I do notice it. Dan