Re: R8, 70-180 f/2.8, 100 f/2.8, 180 f/2.0

["Vahan D. Shahinian" <vshahinian@sprynet.com>]

>anyone out there with information on the R8 performance; also any info
>on the APO 70-180 2.8 or the 100 2.8 APO; or the 180 2.0; I know they're
>quite expensive and somewhat heavy. what about performance?

There have been many positive comments regarding the R8 over the past few
months in this list. In my opinion, the R8 deserves all the praise it has
received. It's a very well made camera, with most all of the modern
conveniences.

I have used the 70-180 Vario-APO on several occasions with the R8 camera.
The combination is quite formidable and could be used as a lethal weapon.
The lens is fairly large and heavy. I find the combination with the R8 to
be about as heavy as I would like to handhold. Optically, the lens is a
superb performer at all focal length and aperture settings. It's the best
quality I have ever seen in a zoom lens.

I have also used the 100 f/2.8 APO for several years. It's a very sharp
lens, with reasonable speed. The bright viewfinder image and shallow depth
of field make easy to focus (particularly with the bright screen in the
R8). In addition, I would recommend the special ELPRO attachment for this
lens, for closer focusing. This lens is extremely sharp; even with the
ELPRO. There is an accessory tripod adapter (STA-1) for this lens. It's
functional and not too expensive.

I have seen and held the 180 f/2.0 APO lens at a show, but I have not used
it. It's fat and heavy, and I would not be surprised if it's very sharp.

Vahan