I returned my first sample after talking with Thypoch. They said it was in the range for their norms but asked me to send them back (I gave it to their representative at the Paris photo show) and managed for my reseller to send me a new one.
They have been very nice, helpful and incredibly reactive.
This one is exactly like Fred described: as good as the Ultra in the center (even better) with field curvature.
All in all, an excellent lens that will become my main 35mm because it is smaller than the 35mm/1.5 Voigt and has a nicer bokeh than the Ultron.
A few ergonomics details are not perfect (would prefer a matt finish, focusing ring a bit too hard, diaphragm ring a bit too soft, screw in the middle of the 6 bits coding space, engraving should be more white, no mounting dot) but this is not a deal-breaker and I can fix the last 2 or 3 (and did).
A special note for those artistically inclined, is to visit Milan Swolfs fascinating, informed and informative review of the Ksana 35mm. It's beautifully illustrated with his particular artistic style, and runs to several thousand words. Highly commended. As is his whole site.
BTW, I add a removable red dot (like I do on some Voigt) and a short hood. Nice lens, slightly longer than the very small 28mm/2.8 Voigt and heavier but still compact.
I could change the fillings to pure white too but decided against it.
Removed the detent when going below 0.7m is easy too but kept it.
6 bits coding works in a quick & dirty way but I'm working with jin (jinfinance on EBay) to have a better solution.
It's 8:30am in China so there is a good chance they will get back today. And even if not, you'll have a paper trail which they may honor later. Or buy now at regular discount and have it cleared up later.
It's 8:30am in China so there is a good chance they will get back today. And even if not, you'll have a paper trail which they may honor later. Or buy now at regular discount and have it cleared up later.
Might have to. Seems no code is accepted now. For me anyway
