X-Vario Zoom ring

[pvak]

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The zoom ring on my X-Vario is not as smooth as I expected it to be. It definitely feels "metallic", slightly "noisy" and "jerky" as the front element retracts from 28mm towards 50mm and then extends again from 50mm to 70mm. Has anyone else found this to be similar or is the movement supposed to be better damped and so my lens has an issue? I tried out the new T mount 18-56 and the zoom of that lens is very smooth and well damped. However it is unidirectional in its extension from 18 to 56 and does not have the complex internal movement of the X-Vario Elmar, Also, I think that some internal parts of the T lens may be plastic and not metal, which may account for some of the smoothness.

Edited July 3, 2014 by pvak

[thighslapper]

I have two XV's and both are perfect. No focus ring or zoom roughness/sloppiness/tightness ... they seen just right.

 

You need a dealer with a XV to compare .... the insist on an exchange if it seems to be a camera fault.

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[pvak]

Thanks! I'll check with my dealer to see if he has another X-Vario in stock. The focus ring is perfectly smooth and responsive and that is why I noticed the difference with the zoom ring. Initially I assumed that it was because of the complex mechanical movement of the metal barrels but after feeling the smoothness of the movement of the zoom of the T lens, I wasn't so sure.

[wda]

Your experience is not typical. The zoom is renowned for its smooth operation. Speak with your dealer.

[firoze]

The zoom ring on my XV does have more resistance as it is rotated thru the midway point. But I would not say that it is noisy or rough as it passes this point. Two other XV's I tried were exactly the same as mine.