Extenders 2x TC question with RF 100-500mm

[lostnomore]

I realize that the RF 2x teleconverter can be only used on this lens from 300-500mm. What is the max. (widest) aperture at 300mm and also at 500mm when this TC is attached?

 

[ChRiSiS]

Frankly, I have the 2X TC and use it with the 100-500. Contrary to what I read on here, the IQ is quite good with the 2X TC. Just like with the smaller apertures on RF lenses that everyone said would ruin the IQ and whole experience, but which turned out not to be an issue, I suspect that mirrorless is different in that regard.

Now, any TC is likely to cause some degradation, and a 2x is likely to cause more than a 1.4, but in my real world examples it is simply not apparent!

Chris

 

[freddijay]

I use the R5 with the RF 2X on an RF 100-500 quite frequently and that combination can provide some quite acceptable images if you are careful about it. Of course, less magnification with the RF 1.4X is a bit better if you aren't in need of the extra reach. It all comes down to balance, IMHO. If you need the shot and the subject is too far away, the RF 2X is a definite option. If you can shoot with a prime lens and no extenders, that's great. Different tools for different situations is the rule. These full-frame images were shot in our backyard with the R5, RF 2X, RF 100-500. For my purposes, they are very usable. If I want to get out the EF 500 f/4 II and mount it on a tripod, I might do better, especially with the EF 2X III extender which is quite sharp with the EF lens.

 

[Jake Shoots Birds]

I have the 100-500mm and both the 1.4x and 2x TC's. I just went back through my Lr catalog and to my astonishment I don't have a single shot with the combination of the 100-500mm and 2x. That could be for a variety of reasons, but the one suspect by omission is that I never got anything worth keeping.

That said, I may need to make it a priority to test out the combinations against a static target in the next couple days.

 

[RedCobra]

Perfect, thanks for your replies. I've read that the 2x isn't quite as sharp as having the 1.4x attached. Any thoughts?

I can verify this. I have both.

 

[SYSO]

One thing I learned in my decades in photography is never stack a 2x TC on a zoom lens. 1.4x TC, on the other hand, works really well with the 100-500. In fact, there's no discernable differences in IQ with or without the TC. If greater reach is needed but without a TC, the RF 800 f/11 is a much better option than the 2x TC for just USD$300-$400 more than the cost of 2x TC. While I have all three -- 100-500, 1.4x and RF 800 -- I've been heavily favoring the RF 800 for bird photography lately. Its IQ is as good as the 100-500.

 

[AKVet]

They are. I'm still thinking about getting one.

Yeah, me too! It is tempting! Oh well, it's only money!

 

[Only RF]

Yeah, me too! It is tempting! Oh well, it's only money!

They don't have medicines for this type of GAS.

 

[ChRiSiS]

I have tried BIF using the R5 and the RF800 F11 as well as the RF 100-500, and also with those two + the 2X TC. It is fine with then 100-500, manageable but challenging with the RF 800, and, for me, very difficult when using either of those lenses and the 2X TC. If you really want a challenge, try using the RF800 plus the 2X TC on a R7! It works pretty well for shots of the moon, but is hopeless (at least in my hands) for any moving object.

By the way, the IQ of the TC plus RF800 is also quite good, considering the extreme focal length and small aperture.

 

[Only RF]

If you scroll around it shows some specs

Canon Extenders | get more reach with a teleconverter

Extender is Canon's name for a teleconverter and increase your lens' focal length, but which lenses are compatible with Canon Extenders?

www.eos-magazine.com