What wide primes do you guys recommend for these high res sensors? The 20's and 24's from Nikon (under $600) don't get great reviews when used on the D800. The next widest and affordable is the 28 1.8G, which I like, but reviews complain about mid frame softness just outside the center and some focus shift issue?
Rick - The 20mm f2.8D is a little too soft for my taste. The 24mm f2.8D was ok but I no longer have that lens since I've sold it already. I used it with my D700 before but I dislike changing lenses out on the field which is why I prefer zoom lenses.
I would just get one good lens at a time instead of buying recycled dated lenses with your D600. I still have a Nikon 20-35mm f2.8D and it doesn't even come close with the newer zoom lenses that I have.
The Nikon 28mm f1.8G does have a focus shift and my copy is pretty darn sharp. It is a fun and light lens that is wide enough to do landscape and group photos.
I'm not a fan of the 50mm but if you must, you can get the Nikon 50mm f1.8G and not the D lens.
If you don't mind manual focus, try the Voightlander pancake lenses. i.e 28mm f2.8.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/890582-REG/Voigtlander_bd296a_28mm_F_2_8_SL_II_Lens_Nikon.html