HenryS wrote:
Is there any significant difference between a low-end filter and a high-end filter from the same manufacturer?  I know that the high-end models preach an advanced multi-coating design, but is this a real and practical advantage that will justify their higher costs?...Thanks!

The Multi Resistant coating is supposed to attract less dirt and dust.(slippery?) More resistant to scratching as well. That is what I understand. If you read something different post it please.

* Visual Mindscapes * wrote:
high end filters are thicker... like Henry said, they are multicoated.

Thanks. Any idea if that coating and extra glass and extra cost translate into a better value? 

My understanding is that the multicoatings help to better squash reflections when struck by perpendicular sunlight, but that mighn't be a frequent concern, or a problem oft solved by a sunshade, except on short focal lengths.

alexwh wrote:
If you have the money, buy B&W filters. Quality does not only mean the glass of the filter but the metal that surrounds it. B+w  filters are made of brass and they screw on to your lens with ease.

I personally never use filters in front of my lenses unless I absolutely have to. This means that I may use:

1. A polarizer
2. A deep red filter for b+w infrared film
3. A green filter for making men more manly (1)4.
4. A yellow filter when I shoot b+w landscapes.

I see no actual noticeable use for UV filters or skylight filters if you shoot negative film or digital. No matter how good the filter it still presents another piece of glass between reality and your ccd or your film.

i agree alex i have a few b+w filters and love them.. there made to last as long as you dont drop them on concret.. thank god this hasnt happend yet to me.. lol..

chris