Concerning the equivalence issues, discussed above,
this is a pretty good resource to digest ("Equivalent Speed"):
https://www.opticallimits.com/Reviews/986-equivalence
That is indeed one of more clear and concise essays on equivalence that I have seen. Thanks for sharing it.
At the risk of going "off topic," the wild card for me is the physical size of the pixels on the sensor, and what the "sweet spot" is, which may vary for different individuals depending on a range of factors, most especially how high you crank up the ISO. The quality of the glass you use in front of the sensor is also very important. I'm not sure that all expensive super telephoto lenses are equally up to the task of resolving details on sensors with high pixel density. Seems like it might also sometimes matter whether the lens has been
designed specifically for the sensor size... In any case, I think it is understandable that the "equivalence" topic generates so much confusion and discussion. It really is pretty complex with a lot of factors to consider.
Back on topic...
As you probably know, the 150-400 is supposed to come with a built-in 1.25x switchable TC option, and Oly will also introduce a 2x TC ... And yes, I believe they are supposed to announce two other longish lenses in development. I really prefer zooms myself because I need the flexibility to shift between different types and sizes of subjects. ...
I can completely understand that. Historically zoom lenses and teleconverters usually meant a compromise in image quality. However Olympus has a reputation for making zoom lenses with almost zero compromise. I recall reading so many good things about their older "Super High Grade" zooms. For me personally, the extra complexity of a 150-400 zoom would be mostly wasted and just serve to make it more expensive, but I know lots of people really need/use the wide end. My first telephoto was a Nikon 200-400mm. I never looked back after I sold it and I still sort of crave a bit more length for small birds, but maybe someday I will come back to a zoom...
Olympus have a number of new camera/imaging technologies and features for which they need a body, and the electronics required to implement the technologies may require more space than is available with the current body.
This and much of the rest of what you said makes a lot of sense to me. I've read that the future of imaging is going to increasingly shift to processing inside the camera. I like that Olympus is sort of bucking the trend, ignoring the "megapixel race" and maybe leading the way in this regard.
The rumors says it's an f4, Olympus 150-400mm f/4.0 PRO.
... that will be pretty big. Nikon/Canon similar lenses with bult in TC are 3kg+ in weight
and costs 10000k.
Yeah I don't think we know for sure whether it is a fixed f/4 all the way out to 400mm, but I had the same thought... I hope Olympus doesn't price it at $10K...
Hey, the Olympus forum has come to life and we have a lively discussion with several participants. How about that!
Happy new year everyone.
Dave