1.4x and 2x Teleconverters

**Loupey** · 09-10-2007, 03:03 PM

As you know, I've been a HUGE advocate of the Canon 2xTC since joining this site. After hearing all the talk about the low level of image degradation of the 1.4x TC, I finally decided to give it a try.

The result: either I have one gem of a 2x (most likely) or I bought a mediocre 1.4x (possibly)

Here are some quick examples. Since most people use teleconverters to obtain a certain subject size, I cropped the test sections likewise. Therefore, the amount of crop is different in each shot.

The other thing to recognize is that the 300mm is quite the high resolving lens by itself as the highly cropped portions (without TC's) are not that far (resolution-wise) from the teleconverter versions.

**Loupey** · 09-10-2007, 03:12 PM

Another set. The 1.4x version here looks botched to me - like camera motion blur. Don't know how as this is the type of shots I'm used to shooting and the 2x version doesn't reveal any.

The point is, make sure you test every piece of equipment thoroughly before you accept it.

I returned the 1.4xTC.

**Jaedon** · 09-10-2007, 03:22 PM

Easy answer to the emotion blur ... you took a breath at the wrong moment lol.

Olympus has a 1.4 TC out and they say there's supposed to be a 2.0 out before years end. I am holding off for the 2.0 and I will go test them both at the local camera shop before I purchase. Thanks for the write up and the information Loupey.

**Copy_Kot** · 09-10-2007, 05:22 PM

Loupey, did you return it for another converter, or just to get your money back?

I like having both... it's usually cloudy here in up-state NY and most days an aperture of f/5.6 is okay for a decent shutter speed while f/8 is not.

**Loupey** · 09-10-2007, 06:26 PM

Jaedon - If you can, buy BOTH the 2x and 1.4x when the 2x comes out. Test them thoroughly at home and field and return the loser. My 300mm lens is the 3rd (or 4th?) unit that I handled/tested until I settled on it. Something you can easily do if you build up a good relationship with the shop.

Copy - Returned, no exchange. But I did enjoy that one extra stop that I gained when I did use it for a few real-world sessions. But the 420mm justed didn't have that substantial added reach over the 300mm to seem worthwhile IMO.

Here is another test set. Again, the 1.4x version just looks plain soft. I know the shutter speed and technique is proven. I have to say it must be TC