Going on the portions I could make out, the lens doesn't strike me as being overly impressive. But I'd be glad to be enlightened by anyone who can read the (presumably Korean) content.
the lens strikes me as quite impressive, considering its ~$285US price on the Korean market currently. That's awesome. I would totally consider this lens a viable option if i didn't already have the great Nikkor 85/1.4...
ISO1600, please consider being our tester! You could buy the Samyang, sell your Nikkor, and pocket the boot money. To quote Runamuck's earlier post, such an honor!
If those test shots are any guide, you might be sacrificing sharpness, contrast, and bokeh. But what do those matter, in an 85mm f/1.4?
If you do it, please consider waiting to sell your Nikkor until after you receive the Samyang, and doing some A/B testing for the rest of us. I'd like to see the direct comparison. If the Samyang is in fact totally awsome, I'll be right behind you.
Do please note that at the time of the original post, the eBay offering price for the Samyang was over $700--pretty close to a Nikkor. This was the odd bit. Now the eBay offer is around $500. If those with access to the Korean market can get it for under $300, the question might take on a different slant--bang for buck instead of a straight quality comparison.
Still, I'd submit that most people who buy an 85mm f/1.4 are seeking the last smidgeon of optical performance, rather than the cheapest lens.
I just sold my 35/1.4 and 85/1.4 (both AIS) so that i could get a hell of a deal on a newer, cleaner, AF-D 85/1.4.... i don't have that lens in my posession yet, as it is being hand-carried from Korea by a good friend.
I would like to try this lens out for sure, but don't have the spare cash at the moment to do so, nor do i want to give up my 85/1.4 af-d....
I'm sure this lens would be worth the ~$300 though.
williamkazak wrote:
Rumors again. Who makes these rumors and why?
There is a factory in Malmesbury making them. They sell them £5 each or 10 for £40. But there is a rumour that they are being purchased by a Chinese competitor who specialises in fake rumours. The workers in Malmesbury try to stop it by making rumours about the Chinese factory being shutdown by authorities as the rumour is that if bought, production will be sent to China and it is rumoured that they will lose their jobs.
B&H has the Vivitar "Series 1" version of this lens for $349, what's that about 1/2 the yoyos on Ebay are asking. This lens is being sold under many names. Maybe something to consider, but not in my immediate future.
