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Lens review

Pentax smc DA* 55 mm f/1.4 SDM

13 May 2009
Arkadiusz Olech

7. Coma and astigmatism



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As for the correction of coma, we have a good few reasons to complain. The picture of a diode placed in the corner of the frame is strongly distorted and the influence of the defect can still be seen after stopping down to f/2.0. Although we don’t like what we see at all, it’s worth to say that Zeiss Planar recorded even worse results in this category. On the other hand, Sigma 1.4/50 HSM performed much better.

Pentax smc DA* 55 mm f/1.4 SDM - Coma and astigmatism


Fortunately, it’s much better with astigmatism. Its level amounted to slightly less than 5% which makes us approve the tested lens in this category.