A little update on this, the Siggy 16 has been returned
When I tried to register for the lens warranty, it was rejected due to the lens serial number not being listed as an authorised UK import. It also appeared to have a tendency to back focus and I've seen this mentioned on some online user reviews too, so I'm reluctant to order a replacement. The PL15 would be have been the obvious alternative, but since DXO have recently released PL4 with DeepPRIME nr, I'm going to see if that gives me the confidence to push the iso higher, in which case I might get away with the 12-40 f2.8 for my low light, wide angle option. A zoom would certainly be more versatile and PL4 added no additional weight to my camera bag
Interesting.
I had a little photo shoot yesterday (low light, indoors) and used the 25mm f1.8 and 17mm 1.8.
Those had been my low light options so far but I realised they may not be adequate during the darker months. I was taking pictures of a friends kid in christmas outfit, he doesn't understand the concept of sitting still so increasing the shutter speed was not an option. My prime lenses were already pushing the ISO beyond my previous limit, which was 3200. It is the general consensus that ISO 6400 is still decent with the newest sensors, but I still feel ISO 1600 and below is desirable for best quality.
After the shooting I realised I have a new 17mm f1.2 lens at home from Olympus, and how much better it would've been for the shooting. Half of the keepers were shot with the 17mm 1.8, using the larger lens would've allowed me to reduce ISO even further.
Intrigued, I took the 17mm 1.2 out for a shoot today as the sun was starting to set - first time outside the house for this lens.
Wouldn't you guess it, shooting around f2-f4 the images came out with outstanding sharpness and clarity with this lens. The question is how often does one need outstanding sharpness in day-to-day use.
That lens is also a ~700€ resale value as it is still like new, so I'm considering selling it.
I could get a used Sigma 16mm f1.4 for around 250€ and have similar low light capability, and I was seriously considering that option. Heck,
for 700 I could get 2 or 3 Sigmas. And they can change the mount for you if you switch systems, which is a huge plus for the Sigma should the JIP Olympus acquisition turn out to be a dead end.
But these mixed statements about the quality of the 16mm f1.4 are making me reconsider. I adore the Olympus, but it really is a luxury item for me. Who actually needs luxury?