Gang! I've heard different. An unimportant matter, but look at the cost is there a price difference, I emailed Pentax Canada after I was told here the FA* was cheaper, they gave me their list prices and they reflected that. Another, you see a lens, a bunch, you look a the lowest f-stop number, it's a seller despite what some may admit to. Many also group the SMCP FA 28-70mm f/4 AL with the SMCP FA 20-35mm f/4 AL. I have received different word from Pentax, they are quite apart. The price between them is vast. I got a hood with Pentax on it and a case, you get neither with the other. Also, weight, despite what some may admit to, heavier the better. Bigger is better (unless you really have to travel light, then that's another story) I know many here that are into digital technology, computers, printers, and really know their stuff. But this is a sort of 'old-fashioned' group. Now, nothing wrong with that, but it's there. And really, when it really comes down to crunch time, what's a star (*) worth? More money and everything above. There's no ED glass, they probably designed and made the two AL elements at the same time practically (that I cannot back up at all, but a suspicion). A star (*) is a Nikon or Canon, etc, basically, all that stuff above, and a colour change too. Add a star and you can suck in the big buyers. I said, what's a star (*) worth? I didn't say it's worth nothing. Just ponder things and don't pull up web tech specs. and all that.
But to the core of the matter. Which is better? The SMCP FA 20-35mm f/4 AL or the FA* 24mm f/2 AL? I know the general opinion, and I just won't comment. Except that any difference in image quality is small, very. Perhaps related or perhaps not, someone educate me. Is a SMC the same as an SMC? No working backwards, FA vs FA, they using a special SMC but don't tell you it's a ESCM (Extra)? Also, concerning the SMCP FA 24-90mm f/3.5-4.5 AL [IF], a Pentax Rep I talked to said the formula/design/manufacture of this AL lens is a completely new and higher quality. Anyone? Or are Reps just stupid? My thoughts open for complete debate, no put-downs, insults, but nice civil talk, chatty, friendly. Brad ----- Original Message ----- From: "Paul Jones" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Sent: Friday, November 15, 2002 2:10 AM Subject: Re: Wideangle Dilemmas > > > > > My lens is solid. The SMCP FA 20-35mm f/4 AL. You probably have a 28mm > > around, what's the big difference of 4 degrees? That much money? > > I have used both the FA 20-35mm f/4 AL and the FA*24/2 and the FA*24/2 is > another league in regards to optical performance. > >
