P3D Re: Belplasca & 7p Realist comparison

["Eric Goldstein" <egoldstein@xxxxxxx>]

> Below f. 8, however, the Belplasca offered significantly 
> higher quality (than the Realist 7p conversion), showing
> greater sharpness away from the
> central portion of the images. (Low-light shots were mainly
> taken on a tripod.) Views that are sharp in the center but
> noticeably softer at the peripheries can be disappointing,
> imho. I wasn't able to test either of the cameras wide open
> (at infinity focus), as recommended by Dr. T.


I think we've had a similar posting to the list a couple of years ago on
this very subject... the realist lenses (tessar-type not withstanding) were
simply not made to cover 7 perf, while the Belplascas were, hence the loss
of corner resolution at even middle apertures.

BTW, I have shot with my Belp wide open and am quite satisfied with the
results even by modern standards. I like the use of selective focus for some
stereo compositions and encourage folks to experiment...

George T refers to the Belplasca as illusive...yet so many stereo shooters
on this list and around the world have them and use them... over 10,000 were
estimated produced. After all is said and done they cost little more than a
7 p realist conversion, and the results are superior... comparable to most
modern twin rigs and most RBTs (save perhaps the S1 and the 109 series with
Tessars, Planars or Distagons).


Eric G.