Minolta 50mm f1.7 MD
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This was the normal lens for the X-700 and other X series cameras. It has a fair amount of plastic in it. It is lightweight and smaller than Rokkor lenses. Focusing is smooth and positive. Focus throw is 1/2 turn. Aperture clicks at f1.7, f2.8 then 1/2 stops thru f16, then f22. The MD mount is actually an SR mount. It is modified to allow program modes on the X-700. The lens balances very well on the Eos M3. Focusing is easy enough. Minolta decided to jump from f1.7 to f2.8 on this lens. At first I didn't see the point, but after shooting a few pics I realized that f2 would have been a silly addition to the aperture ring. At f1.7 it is sharp but it does show some diffusion. At f2.8 it is legitimately sharp in the center. Bokeh fringing is very consistent. Contrast is excellent w/ good shadow detail. Color rendition is accurate and saturation is rich.
Filter Size
Lens Mount
Aperture Range
Close Focus
Macro Ratio
Year Introduced
Tested with
49mm
Minolta SR
f1.7 - 16
.45 meters
n/a
1981
Eos M3