I own both the CF/FLE 50 and the newer CFi 50. Both used primarily with the CFV-50c.
As others have mentioned, they are optically identical. Although I slightly prefer the CFi, I confess I cannot really see the purported color/contrast benefits the newer lens is supposed to bring. I understand the theory behind it... better internal light control gives you those things. But I don't think they are significant enough to be measurable in the lighting scenarios photographers usually encounter.
I think it's fair to say that either FLE 50 variant is an outstanding bit of glass. And both are exceptional with high-resolution digital backs.
That said, who would begrudge a photographer from buying a new lens? ;-)
Best of luck...
As others have mentioned, they are optically identical. Although I slightly prefer the CFi, I confess I cannot really see the purported color/contrast benefits the newer lens is supposed to bring. I understand the theory behind it... better internal light control gives you those things. But I don't think they are significant enough to be measurable in the lighting scenarios photographers usually encounter.
I think it's fair to say that either FLE 50 variant is an outstanding bit of glass. And both are exceptional with high-resolution digital backs.
That said, who would begrudge a photographer from buying a new lens? ;-)
Best of luck...