p.1 #1 · Difference Between? AF 180/2.8 D IF-ED / AF 180/2.8 IF-ED
Ok, now i know the D provides subject distance information to the camera. But exactly what advantage does this have?
I am debaiting whether to get the non d or the d version (but i am not quite sure on the benefits of the d version?).
p.1 #3 · Difference Between? AF 180/2.8 D IF-ED / AF 180/2.8 IF-ED
Just purchased the non-D version myself, after much consideration of this very issue. From what I understand, the late-model non-D IF-ED version has precisely the same optics as the D version. As you say, the D provides distance information for the camera's 3D matrix metering -- no D = no 3D metering. Of course, that means you retain matrix metering so all is certainly not lost. There are a few examples floating around the photo sites of 3D metering outshining regular matrix metering with flash in difficult-to-meter situations. Except for the D stamped after the 2.8 on the barrel, they're indistinguishable from one another (a distinction often not recognized by sellers on the auction site). There is an earlier AF 180mm non-D version, which is one to be avoided. It has a smooth, jet-black, plastic finish and is generally not rated as highly as the later models and does not have IF. You're absolutely right, you'd be paying about $100-200 extra for the D function if you get the later one. For me, it wasn't worth it. But that's just me.
p.1 #4 · Difference Between? AF 180/2.8 D IF-ED / AF 180/2.8 IF-ED
The difference between non D lens and D lens is not much except for the price. For normal light shooting, I see no difference in exposures or image quality when used on D70, D100, D1x, D2H, D1h.
The only difference I see is when shooting with ittl and your subject is near a reflective object such as a mirror. In some instances the exposure is more "correct" on D-lens vs. non D lens but not by much.
Go with the nonD lens and save some extra cash for more lens.
p.1 #5 · Difference Between? AF 180/2.8 D IF-ED / AF 180/2.8 IF-ED
Re-reading your posts, I see that you're using dslrs. In that case, maybe you'd be able to quickly judge whether the regular matrix metering exposed the scene correctly and adjust on the fly when/if necessary?
p.1 #6 · Difference Between? AF 180/2.8 D IF-ED / AF 180/2.8 IF-ED
Thanks guys, i had asked a few people this question but didnt get this kind of info! Now i saw a demo D version on cameta for around 480-500$ with 12 month warranty. But there is also a non D for the same price (brand new with the nikon warranty). The only trouble was, cameta only have about 2 of these lenses each month so its hard to get one from them!
I havent actually got a flash yet, i am planning on buying a sb800 soon though! Exactly what is the difference between this:
p.1 #7 · Difference Between? AF 180/2.8 D IF-ED / AF 180/2.8 IF-ED
Well, as Nikon calls them, the functions are: 3D Color Matrix Metering II and 3D Multi-Sensor Balanced Fill-Flash. From what I've read, the D chip provides distance data in zones (maybe 7 or 8), and the camera's computer incorporates this info into its metering calculations. Essentially, the D adds this distance information to the meter matrix so that the scene being metered becomes three-dimensional (I s'pose).
As far as the pricing goes, I'd consider the non-D pricing you quoted a little high, even though it is listed brand new (production ended in the '90s, right?, early 90s acc. to http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/180af.htm). The demo price for the D seems pretty nice to me.
BTW, have you checked www.keh.com? They had several of both versions last time I checked (yesterday).
Had a look on the keh website and they have a few for 340:
EX "Excellent" 80-89% of the original condition. Shows moderate wear. May have small dings, pecks and slight finish wear. Glass may have some dust, but no marks.
Trouble is, they dont have the 12 month nikon warranty. But it seems its quite hard to pick one of them up new.
p.1 #9 · Difference Between? AF 180/2.8 D IF-ED / AF 180/2.8 IF-ED
I have heard that these lenses are prone to getting dirt in them? (now i was looking at buying a second hand one from keh). It says excellent condintion, is it a wise idea to buy a secondhand one?
p.1 #10 · Difference Between? AF 180/2.8 D IF-ED / AF 180/2.8 IF-ED
I picked up a used AF non-D version on eBay this spring for $200. Wasn't really planning on this lens, but I tossed out some low offers and for some reason I got the lens.. I love it. It is the older wrinkled finish version and looks like it came of the shelf yesterday. Clean and takes great images. If you buy used, ask the seller questions. If there is a reluctance to be up front with the answers, then shy away from it.This lens and my 300 f4 make me want to go shopping for a few more primes. The older lenses focus a bit slow and noiy on my D70, but I was a manual focus person for years so it isn't such a problem.I belive your your D2H will drive the focus mechanism much better.
