Sigma 105mm F2.8 EX DG macro

[rraman]

Is someone aware of any comparison of this new sigma DG macro lens to canon 100mm macro? This has supposedly better quality than the previous version of 105mm macro from sigma. Here is some information on dpreview:

http://www.dpreview.com/news/0406/04062001sigmalenses.asp

If this one has faster auto-focus than the previous version, it might be a very good deal at $100 cheaper than canon 100 mm macro.

[Scottes]

If the AF is twice as fast as the current Sigma 105mm EX then it will still be slower than the Canon. So I'd wait and check it compared to a Canon 100mm.

I have the 105mm EX and it is an excellent lens, just very slow to AF and it likes to hunt for AF. If the $100 is important to you then go with the Sigma. It's definitely worth $100 less than the Canon 100mm.

But will this lens be $370? I know the EX is currently $370 at B&H. I don't know if the EX DG will be the same price.

[rraman]

...
But will this lens be $370? I know the EX is currently $370 at B&H. I don't know if the EX DG will be the same price.

B&H has it for $370.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=341918&is=USA

[Scottes]

B&H has it for $370.

Hmm. I had seen that the other day and just assumed it was the older EX. It should be worth every penny I'd say. That should be an excellent lens at a very nice price. The older, slower EX is worth that price so I'd have to think that the newer one will be, too.

Go place your order, post some pics, and let us know what you think.
:)

[ron chappel]

My thoughts are very similar to scottes.
The older sigma EX is dissapointing (compared to the unbelievably good canon) but is still a very good lens.
The new one sounds abit better :)

[ron chappel]

Uhoh :shock:
Looks like the new model still uses that total abortion of an idea for focus switching :twisted: :twisted:
The tamrons use the same basic idea but it actually works on them

[rraman]

Uhoh :shock:
Looks like the new model still uses that total abortion of an idea for focus switching :twisted: :twisted:
The tamrons use the same basic idea but it actually works on them

Ron, could you please explain what's this focus switching thing? I have never used a sigma lens so sorry if it's a dumb question. :roll:

[ron chappel]

I'll explain them all so you can make a choice.
The Older EX sigma had what they call duel focus (DF).It has an electrical switch and also the focus grip has to be engaged by sliding it backwards.BOTH of these things need to be in thier apropriate positions or neither AF or MF will work!

The tamron (as i understand it,i haven't used one) has a very similar idea except no dumb electrical switch.You can switch between AF and MF simply by sliding the focus grip forward or back.Very sensible and easy

The canon USM is dead easy.
Just AF when you want or manually focus at any time without fooling with switches :D .The best way of all for sure

Oh-in case it's relevant...the canon does have an electrical switch to disable AF if that's needed for a special purpose

I'm not certain the new model sigma has the two switch idea,but if it's important you better check