15mm Port options

Im planning to purchase a Sigma 15mm FE lens. My question is this.... Ike says it will work in the #5503 port ,but recommends the 8" dome. Has anyone used it either of or both of these ports? I would prefer to use a smaller port because of the logistics of travelling,but absolutely do not want to sacrifice any quality. How do the optics compare? Also, have heard a few comments about the handling and bouyancy of the 8" dome being a little different underwater. Is this a concern or a non issue that one soon gets used to?. Thanks in advance for any info you can give me.

I just did 6 dives with my new Ikelite D200 housing and the 8" dome. The rig was barely negative with dual DS-125's and it handled great...I didn't perceive any upward roll from the port at all.

I would highly recommend the 8" dome because it can be used with the 10.5mm, 15mm and 12-24 by changing to different size stalks. I'm very impressed with the corner sharpness with the new port.

Karl

Hi Karl,

Did you just get back from the Flower Gardens? If so, how was it?

I guess this explains why you and Kimberley didn't enter the HUPS contest this month - you were diving!

Cheers

James

Hi James......I went to Ft. Lauderdale to dive with Ryan.....unfortunately, Kimberly had to work all weekend in Georgia.

First dives with D200 went great!...We'll have to enter again next month, after we get back from Lembeh!

Karl

I think optically both the 6" and 8" ports are great with the fisheyes. The place where the 8" port helps optically is for zoom lenses with longer minimum focus distances. People have reported sharper corners with the 12-24mm range lenses with the larger port. It also helps with split-level shots.

The big advantage for me is having less ports to travel with. For only one lens, the 6" dome is the best solution. If you plan to add a 12-24mm range zoom and the 10.5mm (or the new fisheye zoom) then the 8" port is the better choice. I now have one port and 2 extensions to handle all my dome-port needs. Adapting the 8" port system for flat ports handle the 105mm vr and the 60mm with only one more extension ring would be eutopia.