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Pros & Cons of buying long lens or using a converter/extender?

  • 22-04-2011 8:03pm
    #1
    foamcutter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 324 ✭✭


    Thinking of getting a longer lens to get closer to the action at race circuits.
    I'm wondering if I'm better with, for example a 150-500 f5-6.3 or use a 2x converter with a 70-200 f2.8.
    I'd get more use out of the 70-200 and it would be handy using converter if there are no drawbacks (image quality-auto focus etc issues).
    I'm wondering if I'm better sticking with a dedicated lens?


Comments

  • #2
    pixbyjohn
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,250 ✭✭✭pixbyjohn


    When you use a X2 converter with a 70-200 f2.8 your aperture then becomes f5.6 So at 400mm you will have f5.6 , weigh that up with your other option.
    I also think the X2 converter does soften the picture a little. Only my opinion.


  • #3
    Paulw
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 13,381 ✭✭✭✭Paulw


    1.4x TC adds one one stop to your aperture. (f/4)
    2x TC adds two stops (f/5.6).

    I use my 1.4x TC a lot, but rarely use my 2x TC. I believe that the newer models are better, but the 2x TC still somewhat softens the image. I find the 2x TC softens the image a good bit.

    Also, the converters only work on certain lenses, so make sure they are compatible before you buy.


  • #4
    foamcutter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 324 ✭✭foamcutter


    @pixbyjohn @Paulw Thanks for the info.
    It would to true to say that the performance would be quite similar except for the image softening and a longer range with the 500mm?
    The lenses are a similar price excluding the converter.
    I did read some posts about compatibility/fit issues and being unable to autofocus when using the converter (posts were 3-4 years old).


  • #5
    Borderfox
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 10,263 ✭✭✭✭Borderfox


    Dont bother with a 2x, unbearable softness. You can live with a 1.4x on good glass. Converter will slow your autofocus speed too


  • #6
    CabanSail
    Moderators, Category Moderators, Arts Moderators, Entertainment Moderators Posts: 9,047 CMod ✭✭✭✭CabanSail


    I have a 70-200 f2.8 and use it with a 1.7x TC on occasions. This rig works quite well. Cheap TC's will often be soft.


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  • #7
    pixbyjohn
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,250 ✭✭✭pixbyjohn


    I have the Nikon 70-200 f2.8 VR and the nikon X2 converter, I very seldom use the X2 converter but its handy at times for the extra reach but as I and others have said it does soften the image a bit. Lens does autofocus with the converter.


  • #8
    foamcutter
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 324 ✭✭foamcutter


    Thanks for the info Borderfox, CabanSail and pixbyjohn. A little wiser now Cheers.


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