Same here.
The beam pattern is a bit 'ringy' when focussed to a tight beam, but that's pretty much what you would expect from an XR-E emitter without a textured reflector - can't really blame LED Lenser for the nature of the emitter. Well..... other than to repeat that it's time they looked at other emitters, but for what they are using, some rings are only to be expected. It's not like you'll see them at a distance anyway.
If you do happen to feel the need for a light with adjustable focus, this is as good an implementation as any, and better than most. If you don't want adjustable focus, so be it, but don't de-value the light for those who do like this feature. It's all personal opinion and the users choice at the end of the day. There is no right or wrong, just what is right for the individual. Yes there are better lights out there, yes there are lights out there that are better value, but if you take the adjustable focus of the LL lights as being their defining feature, then this is one thing that they do well, with smooth flood to long throw.
LLs could easily be classed as too expensive for what they are, but then, Germany tends to be quite an expensive country.
LL have been knocked for not using re-chargeable cells, and that is now being addressed. They have also been knocked for not being regulated, and that is being addressed. I think that the modes need a rethink - things still aren't all I would like them to be - but it is a definite step forwards.
With li-ion cells now being used, and other lights rated for use with NiMH cells, a re-jig of the modes available on the regulated lights, and a newer LED with better heat sinking, I think you could actually have a very good light on your hands - if still overly expensive, and (big IF) if you were after a light with focus adjustment.
The thing that gets me is that, despite the changes that are being made to improve the LED Lenser range, people still talk about their weaknesses as if nothing has changed. I still see a lot of people criticising the aspheric lenses, despite the fact that newer LL lights haven't used those for a while. It seems that many people looked at the older designs, didn't like them, and have never bothered to look again, so aren't aware of the improvements that have been made. Oddly though, despite a lack of interest in keeping up to date with LL's developments, they seem more then willing to take the time to criticise the lights (often with out of date information) in every thread discussing LED Lenser.
So to sum up, no they aren't the best general purpose lights out there, and they are expensive, but they are now advancing, and the company do seem to be addressing the criticisms that people have made about them. A light with focus adjustment may not be to everyone's tastes, but for those who want one, LED Lenser do it well. With a bit of luck, and a couple more updates, we will hopefully have a genuinely modern focussable light. When that time comes, maybe higher volume sales will allow the prices to start coming down, and everyone can be happy.
