What is the difference between the 50 prime 2.8 USM and the 50 prime 2.8 II (sometimes called Mark Two). I realize that the USM stands for Ultrasonic Motor but the Mark II is also autofocus. Is the picture quality or noise diffent. I can't find differences between them anywhere. Any help you can give would be most appreciated.

-- Newbie (mshadow818@msn.com), March 11, 2002

Answers

Well, no wonder you can't find any differences. Neither of these two lenses exist. :~)) There are several Canon EF 50mm lenses, but none of them have an aperture of f/2.8.

There is the 50mm f/1.0L. Probably out of your price range. There is the 50mm f/1.4 USM. There was the 50mm f/1.8 that has been replaced by the 50mm f/1.8 II. And there is the 50mm f/2.5 Macro.

Which two are you trying to compare?

-- Jim Strutz (j.strutz@gci.net), March 11, 2002.

Sounds like you got your wires crossed. Maybe you mean the EF 50 1.4 USM and the EF 50 1.8 II? I have a review of three of Canon's 50 mm lenses on my website:

http:// alaike.lcc.hawaii.edu/frary/toolbox4.htm

-- Puppy Face (doggieface@aol.com), March 11, 2002.

http://www.photo.net/canon/50-1.8

Also read all of the reader comments below the review. Mark I had metal mount, dof scale. Mark II weighs less. I have both; optical quality seems equal.

-- Terry (tcdvorak@aol.com), March 11, 2002.