dSLR Dad

Imaging Resource has published their review of the Sony SAL-100M28 100mm f/2.8 Macro Lens:

When mounted on the A700, the Sony 100mm ƒ/2.8 macro provided excellent results almost across the board; the only possible objection would be that it wasn’t tack-sharp at ƒ/2.8, but at 1.5 blur units, to ask for more would be very demanding. The 24-megapixel sensor of the A900 taxes the optics of the 100mm macro quite heavily, requiring some level of stopping-down to get the best results (our optimum setting being at least ƒ/5.6, if not ƒ/8 for the absolute sharpest).

Otherwise, distortion is non-existent, chromatic aberration is well handled, and there is virtually no light falloff. Focus handling options are very good, making the lens an excellent platform for macro work.

You can read the entire review at SLR Gear.

Photozone has released another in-depth lens test. This time, they are focusing closely on Sony’s Macro Alpha Lens, the 100mm f/2.8 Macro (available now at Amazon and B&H Photo).

The Sony 100mm f/2.8 macro is able to produce very sharp results combined with a negligible amount of distortions, vignetting and lateral CAs. However, longitudinal (axial) chromatic aberrations can be quite a problem in out-focus areas (f/2.8-f/5.6) resulting in a magenta to greenish tint in some situations – this is not unusual but unfortunate nonetheless. The build quality of the lens is fine although it doesn’t win any crown when looking towards the competition a la Micro-Nikkor 105mm f/2.8G ED-IF AF-S VR or the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro. Same goes for the AF speed which does still rely on the slotted drive screw rather than Sony’s faster SSM (ultrasonic AF drive). The biggest problem of the Sony 100mm f/2.8 macro is probably its price tag – at around 600US$ it is substantially more expensive than the third-party alternatives without offering much if anything on top.

Regarding the third party alternatives referenced above. For around $200 less, a Sony dSLR Dad looking for value should check out the Sigma 105mm f/2.8 EX DG Macro Lens. You can read the entire review over at Photozone here.