This lens has far surpassed my expectations in every way. It has performance very close to the newest ASPH version of this lens which costs over twice as much. Beautiful, creamy bokeh, sharp from corner to corner from f 2.0 on, able to capture available light, near focus capability and a short focus throw make this lens very useful for taking pictures. It has become my new standard lens and hardly leaves the camera. Others have mentioned that the weight is slightly more than the E43 version, but I have not noticed this out in the field. The black paint version that I have is drop dead gorgeous and the perfect compliment to my camera. It is by far the best lens I have ever handled. If you have the opportunity to purchase on of the E46 lenses, I highly suggest you buy it!!!