Ikelite 8" Dome Port

So I remember seeing a post where people compared the 8" dome port vs a standard dome port, but I can't find it so I'm asking again. I understand that the 8" is better, but how much better? And why? I plan to use one of these ports mainly with a Sigma 10-20mm lens. ANd I'm taking this to Galapagos in September so "packability" is a consideration (BTW - still have one open spot on this Galapagos trip if anyone is interested)

Thx

J.C.

Here is my comparison with the Sigma 15mm FE. Conclusion, better on full frame. No difference for crop factor cameras.

I have not tested any other lenses behind the 8" dome, so the result may be different if you are using a different lens.

http://photography.willandsam.com/Reviews/...dome/index2.htm

Most of the complained regarding the small port are when using it with WA zoom lens like the 12-24 or 10-20.

In this case there are complains about soft corners that seems to be better with the big port, with fish-eye lens it seems there is no significant change between them.

Thanks. That was very informative. I'm still undecided . I'm tempted to just try the standard port first and leave the 8" as an upgrade path.

Image quality improvements become subjective without controlled testing, but I can tell you that I'll never use anything but the 8" dome in the future.

The 6" was good with the 10.5mm, but IMHO the 8" is superior for the Sigma 15 and Nikon 12-24....it also makes the rig nearly neutral with dual strobes....very easy to handle underwater.

Karl

Is traveling with the 8" dome any more difficult?

not really, i carry mine in a Pelican 1610 and it fits perfectly.

it also makes the rig nearly neutral with dual strobes....very easy to handle underwater.

Doesn't it make your rig want to spin port up?

I have been thinking about getting the 8", but with the 6" and dual strobes, the port wants to spin up. Its not bad and fairly easy to control, but with the added buoyancy of the 8", it may become a hassle.

Any thoughts?

Packing the 1, 8" port and 2 stalks is considerably easier than packing the 3, 6" domes that I had been traveling with.

Like Karl, I won't be taking anything but the 8" and a macro port on a trip for any forseeable future...

This will be even easier to travel with once Ike releases the flat port compatable with the 8" dome stalks.... I'm waiting with wallet in hand.