I have the Oly 18/3.5 and I must say tha the focal length is perfect for me, the quality out of it is amazing and having just picked up a 5D Mk2 I am now yearning for more I guess.
The vignetting with a 49/72 or 49/77 step up ring is driving me nuts so I am looking at the ZE as an alternative but as far as I can see it's not out yet and when it is will it have filter threads?
The Oly 18 is a landscape lens for me so I really would love to have front filter threads so that I can use my gnd's.
Any input appreciated, even if it is "keep the 18, here's how you solve your vignetting issue."
I though you mentoned something about filter thread issues on your Zuiko? I didn't have any problems attaching standard 49mm accessories to the front of mine. I had the Oly 49-72mm ring/hood, but also tried a standard 49-72 step up ring, with a empty (glass removed) 72mm filter ring, to extend the front threads and act as a small hood. From what I remember, the standard step up ring worked without vignetting. In fact, I think I need to add the extra ring on the front so I could install a front cap or filter without hitting the front element. I'm sure I still have it around here somewhere if you would like to give it a try.
I think the Zeiss ZE 18mm has 82mm filter threads. It also weighs in at a full pound. It's a lot larger than the Zuiko.
Zeiss said they think to introduce it in the second quarter 2009. That probably means it is available in about 9 months.
As for the vignetting: it has an 82mm filter thread and my old Contax UV filter works very well. The hood attaches by means of a bayonet.
On the other side I never had a lens which vignettes more than the ZF 18mm. If you stop down to f11 no problem of course. The vignetting of the lens is one reason I cant be without a (Canon) zoom and even try to sell my ZF now, its simply not worth the investment for me. I'd wait for the 21 ZE
pdmphoto wrote:
I though you mentoned something about filter thread issues on your Zuiko? I didn't have any problems attaching standard 49mm accessories to the front of mine. I had the Oly 49-72mm ring/hood, but also tried a standard 49-72 step up ring, with a empty (glass removed) 72mm filter ring, to extend the front threads and act as a small hood. From what I remember, the standard step up ring worked without vignetting. In fact, I think I need to add the extra ring on the front so I could install a front cap or filter without hitting the front element. I'm sure I still have it around here somewhere if you would like to give it a try.
I think the Zeiss ZE 18mm has 82mm filter threads. It also weighs in at a full pound. It's a lot larger than the Zuiko....Show more →
Thanks for the information, Andy!
So, I may have to reconsider the decision to purchase the ZE 21 Distagon right away then... I am looking for a wide for landscape (to complement the 17-40L), and it may be the case that the 18 would be a more sensible purchase (the 17-40L is quite good from 20 upwards and become really excellent for me at 24, whereas the performance is much worse under 20).
Some vignetting would be fine with me, but I want great sharpness and contrast, even in the corners...
But if the 21 Distagon is too excellent, there is no way I will resist.
dcmiller wrote:
How does the CZ 18/4 distagon perform? It's a bit more pricey than the OM but probably less than the new zeiss.
Excellent in the center, but corners need f/8 to f/11 for reasonable sharpness. I very much like this lens, especially the colors (blue skies in particular) and contrast. I don't believe it works with the 5D.
