Individual Circular ND Filters or 1 Variable ND Filter

[Trblmkr]

Currently both of my lens uses the same size filter (52mm) so I only need one size of CPL, ND8 and ND400. System works perfectly until now.
I'm going to be buying a new lens to replace my Kit lens and the new lens is a 77mm filter. So I'm looking at either buying 1 Variable and step down rings, on just buy the same ones I have in 77mm.

the other issue I've heard of is the X on the variable and it's even more exaggerated on wide angle lenses.

What is the general consensus of the forums on this?

 

[Braineack]

I can't imagine the variable ones actually resulting in great IQ.

 

[Trblmkr]

Unless you're willing to shell out $400-$500 for the Tiffen one, which I'm not. I can't see spending more money on 1 filter then for a new lens.

 

[480sparky]

I can't imagine the variable ones actually resulting in great IQ.

Like any filter, buying cheap ones will kill your IQ. But spend the money on good ones, and you'll see the difference.

 

[lonewolfsx]

I have a 82mm variable ND from "polaroid optics" or something, it was the cheapest multicoated one I could get. I bought it exclusively for video, and it's great for that because the quality isn't really as big of an issue as still images. If you're doing it for that, it's a great tool to have... for stills, don't even think about it. Even the really really expensive ones suck for that, you get this cross X pattern past a certain point due to the way the twin polarizers work. I tested it and at max on my filter you can plainly see the pattern, and it would ruin any nice photos.

 

[usayit]

Unless you are shooting video, you are better off with a couple ND filters. There is very little need the granularity of control offered with a variable ND at the expense of cost and quality

 

[EIngerson]

Look into the Lee set up. Great filters and good quality.