300 f4 w/ 1.4x connection problem? (1 Viewer)

[dtpavlik]

Hey Guys,

I'm seriously considering getting the 300mm AF-S f4 lens with the 1.4x converter. I have a Nikon D300.

I have a friend with the same combo, and after a year he has a connection problem between the converter and the lens and it will no longer focus. Apparently he knows of two other people with the same problem.

Is this a common problem? Is there an easy way to fix it?

I've read nothing but good things about this setup, but his review is freaking me out. I want to get all the details before shelling out the cash.

Also, my current lens is the 70-300mm VR, hopefully the 300mm f4 is quite clearer/faster to focus because the 70-300 is not the greatest.

Thanks for any opinions,
David

 

[Duke Leto]

Have used that combo for about 4 years now and have never had a problem, it it a nikon tc?

 

[flanken]

I don't think it's a very common problem with the 300/4 AF-S, but it's one that I've run into. Perhaps your friend's 300/4 AF-S is a finicky copy like the one that I have. I bought my copy used off of eBay, and it's clear that it's been through a lot. I've used 4 teleconverters with mine, and only one of them really worked properly:

1. Kenko Teleplus PRO DGX 1.4x (1st copy): displayed incorrect EXIF data (i.e., 300mm, not 420mm), focus would work about 50% of the time, otherwise it would freeze and I'd hear a faint buzzing from the lens, likely an iffy electrical connection
2. Nikon TC-14E I: focus worked properly, incorrect EXIF
3. Nikon TC-17E II: rented a copy for a weekend; lens tried to but could not autofocus; I know other people have been able to use their 300/4s with TC-17s
4. Kenko Teleplus PRO DGX 1.4x (second copy): correct EXIF displayed, autofocus always works

So I had to go through 4 different TCs to get one that actually worked properly; I got lucky with the second Kenko for reasons unknown. If I ever sell this lens, this specific Kenko is going with it, as it seems to be the only TC that this fussy lens will take to.

Also, as I have the 70-300 VR as well, I can shed some light on AF performance. At 300mm, the 300/4 is somewhat (significantly, but not massively) faster, especially if you use the focus limiter switch. At 420mm with a TC, the 300/4 is slightly slower than the 70-300 is at 300mm; the lens still goes through the focus range quickly, but tends to jitter around the final focal distance for a second before locking on. It's still fast enough for some BIF shots in good light, and image quality is much better than the 70-300. Note that the 70-300 will work, and will AF with a Kenko TC, but in my opinion the image quality is mediocre at best with a TC attached.

 

[D. Taylor]

connection problems

I use a 300/4 AF S older model with a Kenko with a 1.4 Pro 300 and after about 6 months I started having connection problems on my D 300 S. The problem is in the TC, it will focus but it will throw off the speed or appature depending on which mode you are using. I tried this TC on different lens all had the same problem, connection between the lens and TC. I cleaned all connections both on the TC and lens but still there is a problem. This is an occasional problem and if I am careful and notice my setting in the view finder I can wiggle the lens and compensate for the problem. I think to solve the problem I need a new TC, can't think of any adjustments to make to tighten up the connection.

I will be watching this thread to see if anyone else has the problem or a solution.
Good luck,
Donny

 

[dtpavlik]

I'm quite certain he has the TC-14E II. It is a shame to see that this duo has connection problems after such a short period of time.

I'm really having a tough time deciding whether to get the 300 f4 or stick it out with the 70-300. I used an older 300 AF f4 w/o TC and the focus was blazing fast compared to my 70-300. My 70-300 seems to be really slow.

I'd love to upgrade, but $1100 is not a small amount of money (for me anyway).

David

 

[Duke Leto]

I use my 300/4 with a 1.4 and 1.7 without issue, with the 1.7 tc in low light or low contrast it may struggle to get af lock but that's to be expected. If I were you I wouldn't worry the combo is very sharp. I did a google on this subject and couldn't find any hard evidence but there were a few regarding the 1.7

 

[swainsons]

I have used my combo 1.4 and 1.7 TC's without any issues for 18months now. No hassles whatsoever.

Maybe try cleaning the contacts a little??

Regards

 

[flanken]

I'm quite certain he has the TC-14E II. It is a shame to see that this duo has connection problems after such a short period of time.

I'm really having a tough time deciding whether to get the 300 f4 or stick it out with the 70-300. I used an older 300 AF f4 w/o TC and the focus was blazing fast compared to my 70-300. My 70-300 seems to be really slow.

I'd love to upgrade, but $1100 is not a small amount of money (for me anyway).

David

The 300/4 AF-S isn't a cheap lens, but in my opinion it has the best image quality in the price range, hands down. I've compared it side-by-side with similar mid-range long lenses (search my posts for details), and it's beaten every single one. Despite the quirks I've noted with my copy, I'd still recommend getting a used copy (I got mine for about $800). Or, if you'd rather not bother with worrying about lens-teleconverter connection problems, a used Bigma (Sigma 50-500mm f/4-6.3) comes relatively close to the 300/4 in image quality for slightly less cost, although this is a much heavier lens.

It might also be that your copy of the 70-300 is unusually slow; my 70-300 is close in overall focus speed to the 300/4, but is slower because it lacks the focus limiting switch.

 

[dtpavlik]

I think I am going to go with the older 300mm non AF-S version. I can get it used for $530 shipped, about $500 cheaper than the AF-S version. Right now it seems to be my best option.

 

[Duke Leto]

just remember that you'll have to use a Sigma or Kenko Tc with that lens. the older 300/4 afd lens is optically superb, built like a tank and has an odd filter size of 82mm I had one awhile ago and loved it.

 

[Aegea]

I think I am going to go with the older 300mm non AF-S version. I can get it used for $530 shipped, about $500 cheaper than the AF-S version. Right now it seems to be my best option.

I have one and am very happy with it on a D90. No connection problems and reasonably good focusing with a Tamron 1.4x TC (basically rebadged Kenko, I think). The variable focus limiter is useful in speeding up the focusing.

 

[dtpavlik]

Just to be clear, there is only one previous 300mm f4 lens before the AF-S version, correct? I just want to make sure I'm purchasing the "right" lens.

This is the one I am looking at, in EX+ condition.

http://www.keh.com/camera/Nikon-Autofocus-Fixed-Focal-Length-Lenses/1/sku-NA06999022397N?r=FE

Also, there is a 39mm internal filter, and you mention a 82mm filter also. The 82mm filter would be on the front of the lens, correct?

Thanks,
David

 

[dtpavlik]

Sorry, one more question. It seems the Kenko Teleplus Pro DGX 1.4x seems to be the teleconverter to get for this lens? It comes at not a bad price either.

 

[Duke Leto]

Yes front filter size is 82mm and I used a sigma tc so can't comment on the tc

 

[flanken]

Sorry, one more question. It seems the Kenko Teleplus Pro DGX 1.4x seems to be the teleconverter to get for this lens? It comes at not a bad price either.

Yes, get the Kenko (or the Tamron like Aegea has; they're identical).

There was only one version before the AF-S model. I think you'll like it; I tested one out a while ago, and it's a nice-handling lens with a great integrated hood.

 

[dtpavlik]

Well I bought it, should be here on March 4th. I'm getting the Kenko Pro1 UV filter as well.

 

[Neil]

Tell your friend to check the screws on the Nikon teleconverter as they can come loose.
Neil

 

[Fozzybear]

I use the DG Kenko with my 300mm non afs and it works very well, very little image degradation at all that I can see. It has very, very occasionally shown focus problems like those mentioned - the connections on my TC are not really tight but a quick fiddle with the lens to ensure it is sitting right has always sorted that out for me. Not something I come across very much but worth mentioning as it 'does' happen. Probably most common when I've pulled the camera out of the tight confines of my pack, although I try to be careful not to put pressure on the lens mount. Likely to be a little pulling between the camera and lens happening even so and that may be the cause.

Not sure if it's common but my 300mm has some odd colour fringing, particularly around highlights and out of focus objects like twigs - can be odd magenta and cyan colours that sometimes are tricky to remove. Usually is pretty benign and in some light not visible at all but in dull conditions around water sometimes can be quite strong. Don't have a filter on the lens other than the internal 39mm plain correction filter and it seems the same with or without that fitted.

 

[Aegea]

I've noticed the same fringing on out of focus highlights - it's called longitudinal chromatic aberration, I believe. Not usually noticeable, just an occasional issue with sparkles reflected from water.