SL + M lens vs. M + M lens

[Einst_Stein]

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I was hoping Leica to add M10 in the M9 sensor corrosion trade up. Unfortunately or fortunately, it is not in the options but SL price was dropped below M 240. So 8 took SL instead.

 

SL to me is a little ugly compared to M. At the first glance, it also looked too bulky to match M lenses, though still acceptible. But to my surprise, it actually feels better than M9 to hold it.

 

After a few weeks trial, thus is what feel:

1. The biggest drawback is the incapable of detecting MATE FL Switching. It can only recognize the MATE lens, but fan not know which FL is selected.

2. It is very tempting to use R lenses since it is much more convenient to do so compared to M + EVF.

 

Some people may think using MF lenses on SL is under utilizing or wasting SL. I think that is a big joke , especially given that SL Costs much less th@n M.

 

However, I am trapped in the troubles of desperately wanting the SL 24-90 and 90-280. I have an illusion that using fast M primes and SL zooms will be the irrefutable perfect combinations.

 

If you are considering switch from M to SL, be aware.

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[Lazytiger]

Some people may think using MF lenses on SL is under utilizing or wasting SL. I think that is a big joke , especially given that SL Costs much less th@n M.

 

However, I am trapped in the troubles of desperately wanting the SL 24-90 and 90-280.

 

To me, M-lenses are better used on the SL. But this is because I love to shoot with a shallow DoF. Focussing is much easier and I appreciate the fact that I see what I'll get while I'm framing

 

As to the vario lenses: If you love shooting M- and R-glass and not in need of AF, you might consider skipping the 24/90. If you use it you will enjoy its convenience, but due to its not that fast maximum aperture many of your shots below 75mm will end up with a larger DoF than you might wish for artistically. 90/280 on the other hand, while numerically offering the same aperture, is barely inferior to comparable primes in that regard AND profits from an incredible IS, which is the more useful the longer a lens gets. So there is really no point in using primes over it, except size and weight of course, if that's bothering you. At least that's what I told myself when I bought mine last week

 

 

[Vieri]

I love using M lenses on the SL, I think the S is actually the best platform for them unless you are  rangefinder fa and love the rangefinder experience. If you don't, then the SL is the way to go. Perfect focussing and perfect framing, great colours and sharpness.

 

The WATE, of course, is not auto-detected: you always get 18mm no matter what the actual focal length. You can manually select the actual focal length via the menu though.

 

About the 24-90 & 90-280, they are both amazing optically, by far the best zooms I ever used in that range. As Lazytiger said, while you have many prime (and R zooms) options to replace the 24-90mm if you don't like its bulk and weight (without IS, though, if that is important for you), for the 90-280 there is simply no better alternative at that price and size for the SL.

 

Best,

 

Vieri

[Einst_Stein]

I will use M lenses for what I am familiar with. They are my old dogs, or my old shoes that make me feel comfortable.

 

I am sure the two SL zooms will become my new dogs. The IS and weather seal will also open many new possibility.

[Vieri]

I will use M lenses for what I am familiar with. They are my old dogs, or my old shoes that make me feel comfortable.

 

I am sure the two SL zooms will become my new dogs. The IS and weather seal will also open many new possibility.

 

That makes a lot of sense. I did the same, and ended up selling my digital Ms. The SL is the perfect platform for M lenses, unless you are much attached to the rangefinder experience - in which case, I shut up I kept a M2 though, and run a few rolls of film through it every year when I miss the whole rangefinder thing.

 

Best regards,

 

Vieri

[Einst_Stein]

I still miss the elegant form of Leica M body. In this regard, SL is not that Leica-ish.

Almost all Leica M you encountered would have the Red Dot taped to hide, although it is aways even more screaming.

 

With SL, ehh, If I tape to cover the Red Dot and the Leica label, it would be far less suspicious.

 

Good or bad? it is your judge.

[robgo2]

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I have never used an M body, but I can tell you that manually focusing M lenses on the SL is fast and easy, and for longer lenses, I'm sure that it is more precise. Once you get used to the EVF, focusing becomes a totally different experience. Peaking and magnification are tremendously helpful.

 

Rob