Using old lenses on new hardware?

[scotchegg]

Basically, I currently have an Olympus OM-10 SLR, which as you might know is a 35mm film camera. I have 3 lenses that were made for the OM-X line of camera's.

I am considering picking up a Canon 550D or similar, as I would like a digital SLR. What I am wondering, is could I use those old Zuiko lenses on the new DSLR?

Another question: should I use them? With such powerful sensors these days, would any dust or defects be amplified (I dont see any dust on the film I get processed, but I know the lenses are a bit dusty) and so the image ruined? Nowadays good lenses cost quite a considerable amount of money (I recently purchased a 65-200mm Zuiko lens for ~£20 on eBay, a comparable Canon one today would be into the hundreds no doubt), but would it be worth going for them?

Thanks.

 

[Edwinrgarland]

I don't see any reason why not to use an old lens.
I've got a Sony and I've purchased an old Minolta lens from ebay for under £10. Obviously not as good as a new lens but it lets you build up a lens collection on a budget.

 

[gunnar]

a comparable Canon one today would be into the hundreds no doubt

Well, not hundreds actually. 55-250 IS consts about £120 new, £90-100 used. And a very good lens it is.

 

[Oggy]

Virtually every Pentax lens ever made will work with Pentax DSLRs, but the chances of an OM lens working on a Canon body are minimal.

 

[mumrar]

Virtually every Pentax lens ever made will work with Pentax DSLRs, but the chances of an OM lens working on a Canon body are minimal.

You can buy cheap AF confirm adapters for Canon EF mount for cheap on ebay. I have an OM 28mm f/2.8 and 50mm f/1.4 and the results are fantastic unless in lighting conditions which will show up the older coatings a little.

Examples below

OM 28mm

OM 50mm

Enjoy, it makes it more fun I reckon