JimBuchanan
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 p.3 #1 · Interesting f1.2 comparison, Rokkor 58/1.2 vs FD 55/1.2 | |
cogitech wrote:
Richard,
I don't own any cameras with tiny pixel pitch (I only have 10D and 5D), but I have shown in the past some comparisons of two different Rokkors wide open on 5D. The results clearly illustrate significant sample variation. Maybe the difference would only be more dramatic on a higher resolving sensor... maybe not. I can post the two for comparison again, if anyone would like to see them.
Either way, I am quite certain than Hinnerker's sample represents the low end of the sample variation scale. As I said, of the 13 that I have used, only one produced results similar to Hinnerker's sample. The majority are significantly better ( only a bit of "glow" wide open) and some are simply fantastic. I can't imagine how a 21MP sensor would manage to tell a different story, but that is neither here nor there because I only own 1 Rokkor 58/1.2 now, so it would be impossible for me to re-test, even if I did have access to such a camera.
Post-processing of that image sample; default "capture" sharpening on the RAW file of 150 (on a scale of 400), "Provia" custom tone curve applied. The full image has some USM, but the 100% crop has none.
Note: Anyone who doubts that my sample is wide open (not pointing the finger at you, Richard) should note the highlights in the banana stand. The Rokkor only gives that sort of funkiness wide open, as many of you are already aware....Show more →
Here we go, again.
To start with, the Rokkor 58 is a favorite lens of mine, because of the cost/performance ratio. It has the halo effect, as any fast lens does wide open. It is worse, the brighter the scene is, as any fast lens. It is definitely optimized for infinity, with some IQ falloff at close range, and has focus shift at close range, just like most fast 50 lenses. The early ones have a loss of light throughput due to the aged glass (radioactive) and a color shift toward the warm side. And, I will repeat, this is a cost/performance leader in fast glass, in my opinion.
I have to discount the sample variability proposal. As stated in this thread, don't expect to get a good one, unless you spend untold time and energy and have the insight to seek out the exception to the ordinary rule, typically being old and ugly? I don't know about that. My thought is to simply target a good condition lens, and if color shift bothers you, get a more recent lens.
I acknowledge there are better lenses than others, but only to a more minor degree. I find the later and better condition lenses are the best in IQ, neutral color and speed. Mostly tampered with, and badly converted lenses perform more inadequately.
I currently have half a dozen Rokkor 58s waiting to be converted on my workbench. I will suggest as long as they are in good condition, they will all be very close in performance.
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