Posted by Jesse Speer on September 19, 2008 at 11:55 AM
The best news I've heard from Photokina yet ...
dpreview has some good news for many of us who are hoping for more high quality, wide angle options to match the high resolution Canon cameras. The original Distagon 21mm 2.8 is the sharpest lens ever made for the 35mm format. They have been hard to find and cost well over $2K. I've been dreaming of one for about a year now. This new version is definitely a lens to consider, for those of you who are building high megapixel systems now. I know I'm saving for one ...
Posted by Paul Gana on September 19, 2008 at 12:08 PM
sorry not me right now, I can barely afford the bare essentials
Posted by Todd Caudle on September 19, 2008 at 12:20 PM
I know it's a moving target, but what does 1399 euros translate, USD-wise?
This is great news indeed. I might wait to see if they release an 18mm next year, but maybe not. Now the question will be, which to buy first, the 5D-!!, or the 21mm?
Posted by Jesse Speer on September 19, 2008 at 12:25 PM
Just under $2K right now. At least it's cheaper than the current version - and no adapter needed. Pricey, but it's the type of lens you'll keep forever.
Posted by Todd Caudle on September 19, 2008 at 12:46 PM
...it's the type of lens you'll keep forever.
...and pass on to your heirs.
Posted by Jimmy Gekas on September 19, 2008 at 12:51 PM
Very cool. Once you get one Jesse, we can do a side by side comparison to my original copy
Posted by Bill Pelzmann on September 19, 2008 at 1:26 PM
I know it's a moving target, but what does 1399 euros translate, USD-wise
Todd, I don't think a straight exchange rate translation is a proper estimate, based on the typical price differentials on other camera gear. Others have speculated that the US MSRP will be $1600, with a street price of $1,300. That would make it very appealing.
Posted by Morris McClung on September 19, 2008 at 4:56 PM
(To use the vernacular) Dude! I can't even afford the 17-40L. Ah, with a fixed lens you have to move all over the place to get a comp anyway, where as with a zoom, you can be lazy like me.
Posted by Guy Schmickle on September 20, 2008 at 12:44 PM
Yeah, that's a tough call. If I'm gonna spend that kind of money I think I'd still prefer the Nikon 14-24 and adapter. I saw a comparison between the two and IQ-wise they rated pretty even at 21mm. I'd much prefer the convenience of the zoom, but the Nikon does have the issue with filters (can't really use them due to its bulbous element). Of course, it'll take a while before I can afford either of them!!
Discussion
8 repliesdpreview has some good news for many of us who are hoping for more high quality, wide angle options to match the high resolution Canon cameras. The original Distagon 21mm 2.8 is the sharpest lens ever made for the 35mm format. They have been hard to find and cost well over $2K. I've been dreaming of one for about a year now. This new version is definitely a lens to consider, for those of you who are building high megapixel systems now. I know I'm saving for one ...
This is great news indeed. I might wait to see if they release an 18mm next year, but maybe not. Now the question will be, which to buy first, the 5D-!!, or the 21mm?
...and pass on to your heirs.
Todd, I don't think a straight exchange rate translation is a proper estimate, based on the typical price differentials on other camera gear. Others have speculated that the US MSRP will be $1600, with a street price of $1,300. That would make it very appealing.