question about 50mm/1.4

[mrbobco]

hi...

did a search but didn't see any info...but could use a little help in this matter...

just purchased a new canon 50mm/1.4 usm lens...it DOES take beautiful pics...but i notice the motor is a bit noisier (more so than the 25-70L) and the manual focus ring feels rather rough when turning it (not hard to turn but not smooth either)

do i have a bad one? or is this just something that needs to be broken in (for $350 i wouldn't imagine but we've all seen worse)

the lens works perfectly otherwise (i.e. focuses fast and takes pictures wonderfully)

any input would be most helpful...

bob

[JCDoss]

Bob,

Comparing my 50/1.4 to my 28-135IS...

The AF is somewhat noisier, and the focus ring is a little bit "less smooth" on the 50. Also, if you roll the 50/1.4 in your hands, you can feel a "thunk" now and then. All of these are apparently normal.

The 50/1.4 uses a micro-USM motor, whereas the 28-135IS uses a ring-USM motor. This apparently accounts for the differences.

As long as you're not having any performance issues, your 50/1.4 sounds fine. My 50 matches my 28-135IS in regular light, and far exceeds it in low light.

Good luck,
JCDoss

[mrbobco]

thanks jc!

that was just the info i needed to hear...i had a feeling that it was something just like what you mentioned (i.e. different style of motor, etc)

i'm thrilled with the lens and did NOT want to return it unless there was a problem...

thanks again...

bob