Can 500D + 70-200/2.8L IS replace a dedicated macro lens?

[shakyhand]

Hi,

I have a 30D and the 70-200/2.8L. I used to have a tamron sp90 and later a sigma 180mm f3.5 macro lenses of another mount.... since I have jumped to Canon, I tried to simplify my line up. If possible I want to keep only 2 to 3 good lenses only.

I do macro a lot.... especially on flowers and bug... the sigma 180mm just so good for doing macro on bug due to the working distance. I heard that a canon 500D is a good alternative if mounted on canon L lens....

My question is can the combo rival or at least almost similar level with true dedicated macro lens?

Thanks

[Scottes]

Personally I never cared for my 500D. I felt that it was very limiting - there was a very narrow range that the lens had to be from the subject - like +/- 2 inches. I also had a set of extension tubes and ended up using them quite a bit. I ended up selling the 500D but kept my tubes.

Take a look at these 2 threads, some tests I did with tubes and a 500D on my 100-400.
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=26572
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=28037

[shakyhand]

Thanks Scottes.