Kenko 1.5x DG Tele Converter

We picked up a Kenko 1.5x DG tele-converter a couple of weeks ago and the first few test shots are pretty impressive.

We use the Canon XT and 30D bodies with the Canon 70-300mm 4-5.6 IS and Canon 100-400mm L 4.5-5.6 lenses . It works fine with both lenses. Unlike other tele-conveters, the auto focus works without having to do any modifications to the equipment.

One drawback to this is the converter does not register in the EXIF data. Also the camera does not automatically adjust for the exposure difference, so you have to stop down one stop. Neither of these are a problem for us as long as we can remember!!!

The AF does have trouble working in low light and low contrast. So switching to MF does have to be done at times. Also there are times that after the AF locks, it is best to turn off the AF so it does not start searching again.

Another plus is that is much less expensive that other models, and according to some test result, the IQ is better than some others.

Here is a link to a pretty in-depth review of the top tele-converters. Although the review is written in German, the test shots and the final comparison chart are pretty self explanatory.

http://www.traumflieger.de/desktop/telekonverter/konvertertest2_teil2.php

All in all a nice addition to our camera bag.

Here are some test shots. All are straight out of the camera with no cropping or PP.

Canon XT/350D 70-300mm IS @ 300MM

Without converter



With converter



Canon 30D 100-400mmL @400mm

Without converter



With converter



Here are some from the zoo. Minor PP was done.





This one was taken yesterday on a very gray and gloomy day. I had to bump the ISO to 400. I think because of the lower contrast, haze and extreme focal distance it did not come out of the camera as sharp as the zoo shots. After some PP I think it came out OK.



Hope this was informative to some of you.

Mugmar

Impressive piece of kit and great shots, thanks for sharing ..... .........musket

seems to be impressive piece... But I have also heard that Kenko also manufactures lens under the brand name "Tokina".. Low on "budget" but high on "quality" .. Any one has an experience with "Tokina Lens"

Liu

I have heard mixed reviews on Tokina Lenses. I think it depends on which lens it is. WWW.photozone.de has very good reviews of many name brand and off brand lenses.
Mugmar

Always worth surfing as newer lenses and reviews are always about