Maximum Resolution of a Lens

I have read comments in the past that the 1Ds Mk2's sensor is actually higher resolution than what most lenses can resolve.

With this in mind, what is the highest resolution some of the cheaper lens can resolve, is this an issue on smaller sensors (6MP & 8MP) with cheaper lenses? Is there any point in larger sensors, if the lenses are not up to it?

Just a discussion starter!

Look at the question from Canon's viewpoint ...

A) make bigger sensor:
... camera will be more expensive (harder to sell)
... people can continue to use their old lenses

B) increase pixel density:
... they will save money on the camera because of the cheaper sensor
... users will have to buy L lenses

So what do you think, what'll they do

Problem is, if a full frame sensor has too high a pixel density, there's not much more you can do except go for medium format ... and as medium format lenses don't HAVE to resolve that much, they'll also most likely have lower resolution.

Best regards,
Andy

Interesting topic....

Not to turn this into an x-factor thread, but the 20D has a higher pixel density than the 1Ds Mk II (pixels per sq mm of sensor area), and from what I've seen and heard, the 20D is not yet exceeding the resolution of the lens, so the 1Ds Mk II cannot possibly be there yet. But I have also seen a couple of those articles you have refered to, saying that the 1Ds Mk II is reaching that limit, which is confusing. I guess we are getting close now with either of these cameras, so it will be interested to see what Canon does next. Will they sell a 10-12MP 30D and 25MP 1Ds Mk III, knowing that 90% of the lenses they sell will be outresolved by the sensor?

Phil,

it's not necessarily confusing to me, considering that the full frame 1dsII uses the whole area of the glass, while the 20D only uses the 'sweet' center of the lens.

Best regards,
Andy