p.1 #10 · 50F1.4, 85L, 135L, 300F2.8, 300F4 on MPEX
MPEX is reliable, but be a bit careful. On some lenses I've ordered in similarly "9+" condition there was no damage, but there were smudges on the front and rear elements that I needed to clean. Not a big deal and the 9+ rating was warranted after cleaning, but something to consider.
That said, the price for the 135 is about $75 cheaper than the going rate here and the 50 is $50-60 cheaper so it's certainly worth it if you're looking for these lenses. Heck, whoever buys these will probably just resell them here for a tidy profit.
The other prices are more in line with what's typical around here and probably aren't worth getting too excited about.
p.1 #12 · 50F1.4, 85L, 135L, 300F2.8, 300F4 on MPEX
Air, followed by Pec-Pads with a drop of Eclipse. Wipe gently with one side, refold and repeat with unused side. Then discard pad and repeat with new one as necessary. The smudging wasn't severe, but I'm kinda anal about wanting clean elements. I've also used lens cleaning tissue, but Pec-Pads absorb any excess Methanol and seem to avoid the streaking that can occur with tissue.
I've also done this once with my much used 400/5.6. I prefer not to use UV filters and over a season of use found that I'd gotten a few spots on the front element. The technique above worked well. Despite this I wouldn't advocate scrubbing down your lenses all the time. If you're not careful it's possible to scratch the front element by rubbing dust around. Occasional careful cleaning only when necessary is about as far as I go.
p.1 #14 · 50F1.4, 85L, 135L, 300F2.8, 300F4 on MPEX
Their "9+" is more in line with keh's "excellent" based on my two times experience with them. It could have small dings and moderate dust inside. Notice that they do not have any EF lenses that is rated lower than 9+ ? Maybe it is just a very loose rating system.
p.1 #15 · 50F1.4, 85L, 135L, 300F2.8, 300F4 on MPEX
MPEX is a great company. Being from Columbus, I've bought quite a few things from them. Their ratings are generally pretty accurate, at least as far as the glass is concerned. I would recommend that anyone interested call. They're a little slow to answer emails sometimes, but very nice to deal with.
Marc
