In rec.photo.digital.slr-systems Ray Fischer wrote:
Praying They Don't Educate Themselves wrote:
Alan Browne
Likewise, the softer wide open shots only show as soft at 8x12" or so
(for a 35mm cropped sensor camera)

This is only true for all poorly figured DSLR glass. The same cannot be
said for true diffraction-limited glass (the most precise lens polishing
that money can buy), as is found in nearly all higher-quality P&S cameras.

LOL!

Simple test:

If somebody claims that a $400 camera has optics that are as good as
those in a $2000 lens then they are a liar or a crackpot.

If the optical design playing field was level. Which it most certainly
isn't in this case.

Cost depends on the optical problems the lens has to solve. A DSLR
lens has to deliver its intended quality while leaving enough room
between sensor and rear lens element to accomodate the mirror. That
adds a lot to the cost of lenses of shorter focal lengths.

--
Chris Malcolm