Chainring/F.Derailluer question

[benb]

Does anyone have any experience switching from 53/39 rings to 52/36?

I have only run 53/39 and 50/34. I am just curious if switching from 53/39 -> 52/36 is more seamless than going all the way down to 50/34, especially if it doesn't require a new front derailleur.

I've got the bug to try some shorter cranks right now, and one of my bikes has recalled Shimano cranks on it so that's a good candidate. What I am noticing is that anything new I buy I have a much smaller chance of finding the 53/39 rings in the newer group sets. It seems like it's easier to find in D/A but I have Ultegra on that bike.

It seems like switching down to 52/36 would make sense with going to a shorter crank anyway.