Novice M8 Lens Question

[smgorsch]

Ok, so I've been debating whether to take the plunge & purchase a new (and hopefully improved) M8. Since I have no appropriate lenses, my question is whether it's advantageous to purchase sperate lenses for each focal length or whether to get the Tri-elmar.

My thinking is that any lens w/ movement (tri-Elmar) is likely to be more compromised when compared to individual lenses. Yes, I know cost & convenience favor the Tri-Elmar, but is there a quality (or any other) difference?

[davidmires]

I would guess that, being a Leica lens, there would be no compromise optically, other than speed. Physical size, I guess, would be another factor.
I think that, if speed were not an issue, the tri-Elmar would be a really nice way to go. No more sensor dust!
On the other hand, I sure do like the 28/2.8 ASPH. It makes the M8 a formidable pocket camera...

[erl]

Regardles of whether you shoot film or sensor, the choice of lens depends on your preference. There is no such thing as the best lens. Only the most appropriate for your photography. You must attempt to narrow down your imaging style before such a question can be attempted.

If you are a beginner (you question suggests that to me) I would reccommend you lookat something between 28mm and 50mm, probably closer to the 28. The tri-elmar is tempting, but its two 'drawbacks' are bulk and (lack of) speed. If those factors are not a concern to you, it would be a good choice.

[ho_co]

Stefan--Welcome to the forum! Good question as well.

I'm very happy with the Tri-Elmar. It is compact and lightweight. Since it offers three different focal lengths, using it means you'll be changing lenses less frequently and reducing the likelihood that dust will enter the body.

If you want to be technical, it would probably rate as 'comparable to' lenses of the same focal length, perhaps not quite 'as good as' the others. (This is only theoretical; I don't see any difference.)

As David implied, even if it isn't up to the level of a 28 or a 35 or a 50 from Leica, it's still going to be ahead of the competition. S Reid's review was quite positive on the lens. It is definitely no 'slouch.'

If you need more speed, you might make another choice; but for me, I foresee that the Tri-Elmar will be my main lens on the M8 I'm waiting for, just as it has been my main lens on my M6.

Unlike Japanese brands, Leica offers only top-quality optics. If a particular lens appeals to you, don't hesitate.

--HC