Sigma 24-70 f/2.8 EX HSM

[Tony-S]

The new HSM model is now available, and I'm still learning how to use it... :o

Here's a shot at 70mm, f/2.8, 1/80", ISO 200 on the 5Dii with the 580EX II and Stofen attached. The lens is capable of very creamy bokeh, is a little warm, but easily managed. In this shot, I bumped up the blue channel +15, did a curves adjustment with just the tiniest 'S' curve, then did a 100/2/3 unsharp mask. EXIF data should be intact.

[joruiz]

wow.. almost $500 more for HSM?? that's insane!!

is there any other advantage over the non HSM version?

[Tony-S]

wow.. almost $500 more for HSM?? that's insane!!

I think they're principally aiming it at the Noink crowd (almost $1,700 for their 24-70 f/2.8 ), but keeping it in range of the brick ($1,200) for us Canon folk. I suspect it'll be down to $800 or $750 in a year from now. But it's tough to know for sure.

is there any other advantage over the non HSM version?

It is more compact (it's tiny compared to the brick) and supposedly has better optics. I've not seen the non-HSM model so I cannot provide a direct comparison. The zoom is also in the opposite direction from the non-HSM (and now the same as Canon's). It sure feels beefy. I'm hoping to get out for more shots, but work has me rather swamped ATM.

[4g63photo]

How is the weight on this lens? How about the build and quality?
I was looking at it on the BH site. It looks small.

[Tony-S]

It is very nice and compact - a lot smaller than the brick and Noink's 28-70. It has the typical Sigma EX build and feels quite solid.

[bReed]

post more pictures i want to get lens!

[engrmariano]

can you post unprocessed image at 100% crop?

tanks in advance... :)

[Tony-S]

Here's a full-frame (5Dii) and 100% crop unprocessed at f/2.8 and 70mm. I don't have too many others yet. It is warm, which is typical of Sigma lenses, but otherwise I'm very, very pleased with it.

[Tony-S]

This 70mm series is from f/2.8 to f/8, shot from a bit further away than the previous images (around 8 feet to subject) on the 5Dii. Other than levels adjustment, no pp applied. As you can see, contrast and sharpness improve as the aperture gets smaller.

f/2.8:

[Tony-S]

f/4:

[Tony-S]

f/5.6:

[Tony-S]

And f/8:

[Tony-S]

I've spent some time with the lens today and here are a few observations:

1. The lens has excellent control of chromatic aberration - there is virtually none.
2. It has excellent flare control (better than my 17-40L) and the hood does a very good job of mitigating flare.
3. It vignettes at 70mm until f/8, and 50mm until f/4.

A couple from today.

[Tony-S]

And a couple more.

[jcp2000]

i wish i had enough for the hsm one aha i had to settle for the macro its so noisey!! but ehh it works. im liking the samples in here already, might have to upgrade to this one in the future

[Tony-S]

Here's the vignetting at 70mm comparing f/2.8, f/4, f/5.6 and f/8. The second image is the f/2.8 shot with devignetting applied in Aperture. I now have a preset for this, so it's pretty quick to remove from multiple images.

[Tony-S]

i wish i had enough for the hsm one aha i had to settle for the macro its so noisey!! but ehh it works.

This is all that matters, anyway; so if it works then that's great.

I'm hooked on USM/HSM, which is one of the reasons I chose the Sigma over the Canon. $300 more in my pocket was another reason. :)

[jcp2000]

i am too but im sure if i can save enough i will go with the L if not hsm it is. im already loving the focal length im happy i sold my 50mm for this

[poah]

here are some samples straight from the camera with sharpness set to 7.

taken with a 5dmk2 iso 100 links are full sized jpegs


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3624/3332289093_c804680ee0.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3624/3332289093_c1448caba4_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3584/3333126486_7b08db367f.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3584/3333126486_52128ae150_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3573/3332287503_9079720df1.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3573/3332287503_d2e2066dc4_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3635/3332286997_f6f59183de.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3635/3332286997_616dacaf4a_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3650/3332286531_1549ca6027.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3650/3332286531_0460f31812_o.jpg

[tuan209]

Any more updates Tony?? I am seriously considering this lens.

[Tony-S]

I am extremely happy with it. The only issue is the full frame vignetting noted above that is easily and quickly rectified in pp. It will be with me for some time.

[jcp2000]

why is the macro version of this lens thread suck!! aha no one posts but me getting boring. i think i have to switch over to the hsm now!! (if i had the money ha)

[Kruzkal]

How is the AF of this lens? I am also very interested in this lens. It is one of the reasons why I have yet to purchase the Canon L.

[poah]

I had to dial in some miroadjust on my 5dmk2 not tried it on my 40 or 20D yet


vignetting on FF quite large but its simple to fix in raw

[rjg5]

Any one have thoughts or experience of this vs. the tamron 28-75

[Gliderparentntn]

you keep discussing the viginetting on a FF what about a crop body? i use the 1.6 and 1.3 bodies.... anyone notice it with either crop body?

[Tony-S]

you keep discussing the viginetting on a FF what about a crop body? i use the 1.6 and 1.3 bodies.... anyone notice it with either crop body?

I doubt there's any vignetting on a crop sensor camera. The vignetting on FF is only in the far corners.

[Gliderparentntn]

Thanks Tony I'm going to look into this lens and as you save 300.00 unless i can find the Canon cheap enough then I'll just go Canon

[Contra]

Tony, Don't you find that bokeh is ugly with this lens?
I am looking at the bench shot, where background is complicated and challenging for lens bokeh capabilities. I wonder whether you shot the same scene with this Sigma and 50mm and compared its bokeh? After all, bokeh is one of the most important factors.

[Tony-S]

Tony, Don't you find that bokeh is ugly with this lens?
I am looking at the bench shot, where background is complicated and challenging for lens bokeh capabilities. I wonder whether you shot the same scene with this Sigma and 50mm and compared its bokeh? After all, bokeh is one of the most important factors.

It seems to be ok. Here are a few others and a crop showing the 9 blades. There's a bit of a halo to the very bright spots, but I think it does fine.

[Tony-S]

A couple more.

[Tony-S]

The Dominici building on the U of New Mexico Medical School campus with crop.

[Tony-S]

you keep discussing the viginetting on a FF what about a crop body? i use the 1.6 and 1.3 bodies.... anyone notice it with either crop body?

No appreciable vignetting on a 30D at 70mm and f/2.8.

[Tony-S]

And a couple of West Spanish Peak in SE Colorado.

[Tony-S]

Gateway Natural Area near Fort Collins, CO.

[inthedeck]

Doesn't the 5D2 have a way to fix the vignette in camera? I thought there was a function for this, so you wouldn't have to correct it in post?

Nice images, nonetheless. ;)

[Tony-S]

Doesn't the 5D2 have a way to fix the vignette in camera? I thought there was a function for this, so you wouldn't have to correct it in post?

Isn't that only for JPEG images in camera? I think for raw images you have to do it in pp.

Nice images, nonetheless. ;)

Thanks much!

[inthedeck]

Dunno...That's why I asked. Too bad if it's only jpegs. But, I understand why, and yeah, it's not difficult to clean up, at all.

[poah]

A couple more.

what you doing RT-PCR on?

[Tony-S]

what you doing RT-PCR on?

Cytokines and virus.

Here's a couple from Galveston this week. Some old mansion at sunset and the Galveston National Lab.

[poah]

what virus, I work at the MRC virology unit in glasgow.

100% crop 24mm f4 5D2

http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/3218/f424mm.jpg

[gte357s]

Myrtle electronics is selling the HSM version for 394.98, I think it is too good to be true ... isn't it?

[Tony-S]

Yeah, sounds like a very, very, very great deal. I suspect it's the non-HSM version.

[Tony-S]

Just to demonstrate its sharpness. Full-frame and 100% crop shot at f/8.

[algee]

Thanks for the shots Tony!

Are we all tight on cash or is this lens isn't as good as I'm thinking it is; no one else seems to be posting pics.

[il Dottore]

Especially the last picture+crop says to 5DMkII owners: "You definitely need one!". :)

[poah]

whacked a 13mm extention ring on the lens and shot my landrovers wheel bolt. included is a 100% crop too.

http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/2135/5208.jpg

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/8767/5208crop.jpg

[poah]

another one

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3564/3414308277_8ac3816aa5_o.jpg


crop

http://img11.imageshack.us/img11/3144/eyes1s.jpg

[il Dottore]

Some shots taken with this lens by Piotr from Polish forum www.foto.recenzja.pl:
http://picasaweb.google.com/itrigue2/20090329Chrzciny#
http://picasaweb.google.com/itrigue2/20090328Sigma1#
And here some Piotr's samples with vigneting, flare etc...
http://foto.recenzja.pl/sigma_24_70_mm_f_2_8_ex_dg_hsm-t-17590/
Glass looks fine but I prefer the primes anyway. :)

[bwhited]

I'm thinking about getting this lens... instead of the Canon 24-70L... the Canon is only like 200-300 more... So I might just get the Canon. Any suggestions? :p

[jdlloyd67]

This lens just got a great write up in the latest Popular Photography magazine. The article says that this version is a major upgrade from the macro version. I was thinking of upgrading from my Tammy 28-75 to the Canon "Brick" but after reading the review I am definately considering this instead.

[datadump]

anyone know how this lens holds up in some light rain? i know its not really weather proof...

[Tony-S]

I've had it in light sprinkles, but no steady rainfall. I'm a bit paranoid - more concerned about the 5Dii than the lens. But then again, that's why I have insurance for my gear.

[Stealthy Ninja]

Just to demonstrate its sharpness. Full-frame and 100% crop shot at f/8.

Incredible sharpness!

I'm getting this lens. :lol:

[Tony-S]

A few more...

[Tony-S]

And more...

[Tony-S]

And still more...

[Tony-S]

And even more...

[koljaho]

up for this thread!

[engrmariano]

Doesn't the 5D2 have a way to fix the vignette in camera? I thought there was a function for this, so you wouldn't have to correct it in post?

Nice images, nonetheless. ;)
YES, for canon lenses only.

[Tony-S]

YES, for canon lenses only.

It works with any lens, but it requires the file is recorded as jpeg. It does not work on raw images (which must be done in post processing).

[koljaho]

more samples?

[uniu]

yes , please

[NeoTokyo]

I cant wait till Canon counters with the 24-70mm II IS-L

:)

[Stealthy Ninja]

I cant wait till Canon counters with the 24-70mm II IS-L

:)

You mean the 24-70 f/2.8L IS ?!


Gotta get these things right ya know :p

I wonder if they'll call it a Mark II or just IS?! ???

[Tony-S]

I cant wait till Canon counters with the 24-70mm II IS-L

They'll have to rename it to "The Boulder". :)

[Stealthy Ninja]

They'll have to rename it to "The Boulder". :)

Don't you know that the new nano-coating makes it 50% lighter?! :p :lol:

[koljaho]

upz upz! any more pics?

[juan_lau]

hello my sample:p

[juan_lau]

2nd

[koljaho]

nicE!~ very clear night shots! more!

[Stealthy Ninja]

hello my sample:p

Are you in Hong Kong? That fire hydrant looks like the ones in Hong Kong. :)

[juan_lau]

thx will work harder on this lens



yes
taken in lingnam university hong kong

[calledthestig]

Wow definitely considering this lens.

So the HSM lens is THAT much better than the non-HSM lens?

[redwaters]

Hi all lens users, i am little bit confused. Don't you feel the absence of an OS system on a cropped body. I am in dilemma between this f2.8 minus IS/OS thing and/or canon 24-105 F4 IS.

[Tony-S]

If you're on a crop camera, you should consider the 17-55 IS lens if you need the IS and f/2.8.

[redwaters]

thanks Tony-S for suggesting that option too. But i doubt when i upgrade to full-frame in future if i will be able to use this EF-S lens on it. What you say.

[Tony-S]

Well, if you plan to ff in the near future then the 17-55 probably isn't a good choice. But if you're two years away from that I'd still recommend the 17-55. It'll have a nice resale value and you should get 80% of your cost out of it - perhaps more. I sold my 2 year old 50mm f/1.4 for the same amount I bought it since Canon's prices went up.

But otherwise, you'll need to decide which is more valuable to your shooting style - f/2.8 with no IS and better bokeh, or f/4 with IS (and a longer range).

[Tony-S]

A couple from Mesa Verde National Park last week.

[Tony-S]

A couple more from Molas Pass in SW Colorado.

[Tony-S]

Nymph Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park.

[brambo76]

very nice shots tony. I am getting used to the lens. love the color and sharpness.

[aerosmith9110]

Tony,

Does this extends / compress when you zoom?
or is it like to the sig 70-200 which doesn't change lenght.

[Tony-S]

It's like the Canon 24-70L - extends on zooming but not on focusing.

very nice shots tony. I am getting used to the lens. love the color and sharpness.

Yes, I've been very happy with it as well. Glad I didn't spend the extra $300 on the Canon.

[aerosmith9110]

tnx,

I already have a tamron 28-75 .. .
Would you say this is a good upgrade? ( IQ and Focusing? ) or will I save the money and purchase another focal length glass

Cause here I could buy 2 Tamron 28-75 for the sigma money

[Tony-S]

I've heard a lot of good things about the Tamron, but I've never used one. The new Sigma HSM model is completely redesigned and is optically superior than the Canon 24-70L from a couple of web comparisons I've seen and two personal views (one of which is my own). Certainly the Sigma HSM will focus faster than the Tamron, but there have been a number of reports that it has a high frequency of front focusing copies on the 5Dii (but strangely not other cameras). Mine ff but I have it mitigated with the 5Dii's MFA. The Sigma is also well-built (EX grade) and compact.

[aerosmith9110]

I've heard a lot of good things about the Tamron, but I've never used one. The new Sigma HSM model is completely redesigned and is optically superior than the Canon 24-70L from a couple of web comparisons I've seen and two personal views (one of which is my own). Certainly the Sigma HSM will focus faster than the Tamron, but there have been a number of reports that it has a high frequency of front focusing copies on the 5Dii (but strangely not other cameras). Mine ff but I have it mitigated with the 5Dii's MFA. The Sigma is also well-built (EX grade) and compact.


tnx... FF / BF not an issue for me.. I live near the official distributor of sigma here in the P.I. ont 20 mins away... so near that I prefer sigmas than Canons..

[brambo76]

here's one from recent trip to new hampshire. it's sharp enough for me.. the detail I can see at full resolution is amazing.

[RFluhver]

Hi all... newbie here.

I stumbled into the forum because I've been doing research on this lens. My conclusion is that based on the price alone, it does not make sense to settle for the off-brand alternative. I've made up my mind: between this new Sigma and the equivalent Canon L, I think I'll go with the latter. The difference is only a couple of hundred $$! Besides, I think the only plus of this new Sigma is its compact size. And I'm pretty certain that the Canon's IQ is will still beat the Sigma any day.

I was originally considering the earlier Sigma 24-70 (without HSM), but the opinions on that are alarming, varying from high praise to downright condemnation!

[Tony-S]

I stumbled into the forum because I've been doing research on this lens. My conclusion is that based on the price alone, it does not make sense to settle for the off-brand alternative.

Funny, I came to the same conclusion.

I've made up my mind: between this new Sigma and the equivalent Canon L, I think I'll go with the latter.

That's great, we're all happy for you. I'm sure it'll give you many years of adequate service.

The difference is only a couple of hundred $$!

Closer to US$400 now.

Besides, I think the only plus of this new Sigma is its compact size. And I'm pretty certain that the Canon's IQ is will still beat the Sigma any day.

There'd you'd be mistaken. The Sigma is sharper by all accounts and my personal experience with both lenses made the decision for me an easy one. I much prefer shaper images over weather sealing (not to mention size). But to each their own.

I was originally considering the earlier Sigma 24-70 (without HSM), but the opinions on that are alarming, varying from high praise to downright condemnation!

What relevance is this?

[RFluhver]

This thing is sharper than the Canon L??

[Tony-S]

That is the consensus. There are two online reports comparing both lenses and there are two of us here on the forums who have handled both lenses. Have a peek here (http://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/739635).

[RFluhver]

Yeah...saw that too. But for some weird reason my instincts tell me that there is something shifty going on there. One fairly technical review I read does partly conclude: "It is two times cheaper than the similar Canon, Nikon or Sony/Zeiss lenses but it is their equal (even more than equal in the case of the Canon) when it comes to optical properties." Read here (http://www.lenstip.com/172.11-Lens_review-Sigma_24-70_mm_f_2.8_EX_DG_HSM_Summary.html).

So now my head is totally hurting. This or the Canon L?! I'll have to do some more reading and even test the thing out.

[aerosmith9110]

hey Tony... this is sigma the new version .. Am I right?

this is for 24-70mm F2.8 IF EX DG HSM

http://www.sigmaphoto.com/lenses/lenses_all_details.asp?id=3362&navigator=2

[Skid]

Tony, any chance of some low(er) light stuff please? Pref indoors, early evening - looks like rather than saving for the brick I can cut the saving short a bit and go for this..

[brownbugger]

beautiful , perhaps a tad sharper than mine canon 24-70

[texaspancake]

I'm considering this lens as well... But I'm still up in the air on whether to get the Sigma or the Canon... I want to make the right choice before I make the right decision.

[texaspancake]

And even more...

Hey Tony... Are these images before or after post production?

[Tony-S]

hey Tony... this is sigma the new version .. Am I right?

this is for 24-70mm F2.8 IF EX DG HSM

http://www.sigmaphoto.com/lenses/lenses_all_details.asp?id=3362&navigator=2

Yes, that's the lens. Its street price is about $900. I doubt there'll be a price drop anytime soon. Based upon Sigma's other "pro" lenses (ff EX) they don't drop pricing for a while. In fact, some have gone up. My 100-300 f/4 was $900 three years ago; now it's $1,400.

Tony, any chance of some low(er) light stuff please? Pref indoors, early evening - looks like rather than saving for the brick I can cut the saving short a bit and go for this..

I'll see what I have, but most of my low-light work is done with my fast primes (20mm f/1.8, 50mm f/1.4, 135mm f/2L).

Hey Tony... Are these images before or after post production?

I've noted the processing in most of them. However, the mountain shots are usually HDR or treated with Viveza.

[texaspancake]

hey tony- I've heard people sending there lens back to Sigma to get a new firmware upgrade? Was that the case with you... I also heard that people have some front focus issues?

[Tony-S]

I haven't heard anything about firmware, but the lens has a reputation for front focusing on the 5Dii. What's strange is that you don't hear much about this with Nikons, so I'm not sure what's up with that. My 5Dii is set at +20 MFA which seems to work. I'll probably send mine in sometime, but right now it's doing just fine and I use it too much to be without it. Probably send it in this winter when I'm not shooting so much.

[RFluhver]

Yeah Tone...low light shots with this Siggy would be much appreciated, thanks. Also, any portraits in bright daylight conditions would be good too.

Sorry mate, but forking out money on Sigma just kinda makes me nervous. So I need to be sure. I'd go immediately with Canon but the price difference is big enough for me to actually consider the Siggy.

[texaspancake]

Yeah Tone...low light shots with this Siggy would be much appreciated, thanks. Also, any portraits in bright daylight conditions would be good too.

Sorry mate, but forking out money on Sigma just kinda makes me nervous. So I need to be sure. I'd go immediately with Canon but the price difference is big enough for me to actually consider the Siggy.

I totally agree.

[mtakako]

Just brought this lens couple weeks ago.. Here is couple picture.

[mtakako]

Here is couple more. Used PS and save as Jpg. No sharpening.
All image at f2.8 ISO 400 @ 70mm using Canon 50D.

[sethultimate]

I wanted to see this sigma with my own eyes and the first impressions are very good. one of my immediate concerns was about the AF accuracy and the copy that I have is well calibrated on three cameras (1Ds, 1DsII,1DIIN).
center and corners (also on FF bodies) are even better than the 24-105 and canon 24-70. The lens gives a warm cast (which is annoying).
bottom line ? the price: is still high

not because of the quality but because sigma sells compatible products (mainly) and can't compete against the canon fashion of the red ring (in the case of the canonians)

And that's the way it is.

In order for Sigma to sell the price must be lower, this lens should be cheaper and of course better than the original one (canon or nikon)

Another reason to be cheaper is that the sigmas don't hold the price in the used market.

so: better and much cheaper.

it makes no sense if they keep selling it with such a little discount compared to the canons.

in my opinion.

quality:
direct comparison against the 24-105? at 24-30mm the canon gives a distortion on the sides (left in particular with my copy)
direct comparison against the 24-70? the AF of the canon tends to stay in the background for fast shooting (I had 3 copies of that lens over the years): plus the canon is not really 24mm and 70mm but more like 25mm and 67mm. But the canon takes pictures with a 3D effect that I still have to see with the sigma. I can't explain this better (sorry)

The sigma is sharp , high quality from 24 to 70mm , very good wide open, corner to corner on FF. It should cost around 600 (USD)

[The Moose]

Planning on getting one of those for around AU$1000 towards Christmas... not sure if it'll go to plan because I thought I was going to get the non-HSM earlier this year but I never did! Very much set on a 24-70 being my next lens and I think it'll be this one unless I find a good deal on the L.

[RFluhver]

Mate...Mainline currently has a used L 24-70 for $1295. You could take a look at that.

[Tony-S]

OK, been swamped but time is becoming more available. Here's a shot at f/2.8 under overcast skies, along with a 100% crop. The more I use the lens, the more happy I am with the decision to get it over the 24-70L. I wouldn't recommend it for Canon users unless you have a 5Dii, 7D or 50D (microfocus adjustment). For whatever reason, I haven't heard about front focus issues with Noink or other brand cameras. Strange.

[Tony-S]

A few more from Utah/Idaho in late September. Polarizer on the lens, but no postprocessing other than what goes into the JPEG conversion.

[Tony-S]

Ibid1.

[Tony-S]

ibid2.

[Tony-S]

ibid3.

[MigsVuitton]

And am liking it so far. Without micro adjusting on my 5dmkII, it was HORRENDOUS. I can see why people think this lens is a dud. I adjusted -15 back focus.

At 24mm it's focal point and sharpness is spot on but at 70mm it's slightly off. Is this something to expect from zooms? I normally use primes.

Here are some samples:

70mm f/2.8
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2776/4061771555_717dbf2132_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2450/4062524838_e8f9d88994_o.jpg

24mm f/2.8
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2571/4061777683_74df7d3079_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2592/4062525032_a75e08856b_o.jpg

[MigsVuitton]

oops forgot to post this one:

24mm f/2.8
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2482/4062544378_5fcf0625b5_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2576/4061799121_3f2db26f9b_o.jpg

[Liazon]

I been referring people more and more to this lens. It takes great pictures. Thanks for showing samples everyone.

[juan_lau]

This thing is sharper than the Canon L??
yeah no doubt:cool:

[juan_lau]

i have used this lens for half a yr now
zoom ring is not as smooth as L lenses'
PQ and focus speed is very satisfactory
weight is a problem
ps i dont hv 2470L
will post more sample soon
juan

[AJG1]

Just got this lens as an upgrade to my 18-50 f2.8EX, and for my impending switch to FF. First impressions are very good! Think it may be heading towards my 70-200 f4IS in the sharpness stakes, but I've only had it for a few days, so I haven't really had a chance to use it properly. Got some portrait shoots coming up soon.....

[MigsVuitton]

I ended up returning this lens for the Canon 24-70 which was sharp at all lengths. My Sigma was awful at 70mm even after microadjusting. I then got rid of the 24-70 for a 35L and am not looking back.

I guess zooms are not for me.

[juan_lau]

hello 2

[juan_lau]

:) yeah

[JamieDubS]

has anyone used this on a 40D? How was the night time shooting with this lens? Post up shots with your ISO?? Thanks

[Lantz]

Well I just read the thread since I'm looking for a good lens for my new T1i Christmas present, I bought a 55-250mm although I like the ability of zooming into a far object I feel Im not getting the ability of the camera out of my images with the kit lens or the 55-250mm so Ive been looking for a GOOD sharp walk around lens.

Tony thanks for taking the time with this post, it has been very helpful!

Ive found this lens for $599 in the HSM version and am ready to buy it ;)

I will post some pics once I get it in.

[Tony-S]

Ive found this lens for $599 in the HSM version and am ready to buy it ;)

Wow, that's a great deal. Where did you find it?

[sunbeast]

Wow, that's a great deal. Where did you find it?

Agreed....that's about the price they want for the older model....

[Lantz]

Well after posting I ordered it afterwards I PMed Tony telling him what I was doing and he kindly informed me of the problems this seller has given other customers, Im a little worried now!

So I guess the best thing I can do now is make this whole order as public as possible and hope for the best.
Myrtle Electronics ( http://www.myrtleelectronics.com/item_detail.php?item_id=118684 )

I will keep everyone posted as to how they handle this order, maybe they have started to practice better business ethics now (fingers crossed) If it goes well you all will know, if this goes bad I will post here and then start a warning thread about this company here so the 222,947 members can spread the warning not to buy from them. Again I will say this, If it goes smooth I will be sure to give Myrtle Electronics a BIG thanks for the lens and the price!

[sunbeast]

Thanks for the info.....hopefully they don't turn out to be the Grinch. Interestingly enough they seemed to have a streak of good conscience earlier in the year, so I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.

[Lantz]

Thanks for the info.....hopefully they don't turn out to be the Grinch. Interestingly enough they seemed to have a streak of good conscience earlier in the year, so I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.

Thanks for the crossed fingers.

[JayStar86]

Thanks for the crossed fingers.

although its not looking good.... i have my fingers crossed for you.

http://www.resellerratings.com/seller21819-p2-s1-d1.html

[Lantz]

I canceled the order from Myrtle Electronics.

They told me they had a Imported version (plastic mount) for $599 & a $699 version (metal mount) but after an hour on the phone they could not find either:???:

So I will watch my Visa card to make sure it doesn't get charged.

None of this has detoured me from buying this lens so onward I go today looking for this lens at a local retailer... lol

Tony sorry if this has hijacked your thread but I do feel the info was helpful to people here on the forum so I posted it up.

[JayStar86]

I canceled the order from Myrtle Electronics.

They told me they had a Imported version (plastic mount) for $599 & a $699 version (metal mount) but after an hour on the phone they could not find either:???:

So I will watch my Visa card to make sure it doesn't get charged.

None of this has detoured me from buying this lens so onward I go today looking for this lens at a local retailer... lol

Tony sorry if this has hijacked your thread but I do feel the info was helpful to people here on the forum so I posted it up.

thanks for letting us all know! maybe give your credit card company a call and tell them that a company may try and charge you and that your not authorizing it.... incase something happens the CC company then knows what the story is before it happens.

[Lantz]

thanks for letting us all know! maybe give your credit card company a call and tell them that a company may try and charge you and that your not authorizing it.... incase something happens the CC company then knows what the story is before it happens.

Good idea.

[Lantz]

Anyone have any more pics with this lens?

I'm torn between this and the Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L USM

I will be putting it on a crop body (T1i) 1.6 sensor and would love to see how wide it will go with the smaller sensor than Tony's FF. Some of the posts didn't say what camera was used and they might have been a none full frame camera? wish everyone would give a little more shot info.

[JayStar86]

Anyone have any more pics with this lens?

I'm torn between this and the Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L USM

I will be putting it on a crop body (T1i) 1.6 sensor and would love to see how wide it will go with the smaller sensor than Tony's FF. Some of the posts didn't say what camera was used and they might have been a none full frame camera? wish everyone would give a little more shot info.

honestly man just look at the regular Sigma 24-70 non-HSM thread.... the FL on a crop and FF is going to be same with this HSM and there way more pics and posters in that thread!

[MMURAD]

well I thought I had made a decision on an upgrade lens from the 18-55 kit and was going to get the tamron 2.8 either 17-50 or 28-75....and then I saw this thread.

I am wondering if Sigma will have better IQ and AF speed to be worth the slightly extra money over either tammy?

I found the Sigma for $569 and the Tamrons for $450 and $440. I have been wanting a flash and better tripod and trying to decide if I should get the tamron and tripod (manfrotto 199pro) or the Sigma.

any input would be appreciated.

[Tony-S]

I found the Sigma for $569 and the Tamrons for $450 and $440.

If you've found the Sigma 24-70 f/2.8 HSM for $569 I would suspect a scam. Be careful with that.

If you're on a crop camera, you should think about the FLs you need. 17mm is much wider than 24mm and 50mm and 70mm aren't so far apart on the fov.

[JayStar86]

If you've found the Sigma 24-70 f/2.8 HSM for $569 I would suspect a scam. Be careful with that.

If you're on a crop camera, you should think about the FLs you need. 17mm is much wider than 24mm and 50mm and 70mm aren't so far apart on the fov.

I agree.... post a link to where you found the Sigma HSM version of this lens for $569.... I would be extremely leary of buying at that price.... its probably a scam.

[MMURAD]

If you've found the Sigma 24-70 f/2.8 HSM for $569 I would suspect a scam. Be careful with that.

If you're on a crop camera, you should think about the FLs you need. 17mm is much wider than 24mm and 50mm and 70mm aren't so far apart on the fov.

upon further review, I was looking at the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 EX DG Macro Aspherical Large Aperture Standard Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras.

is there a big difference between the 2 Sigma's?

I am leaning towards the Tammy 17-50 at this point.

[JayStar86]

upon further review, I was looking at the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 EX DG Macro Aspherical Large Aperture Standard Zoom Lens for Canon SLR Cameras.

is there a big difference between the 2 Sigma's?

I am leaning towards the Tammy 17-50 at this point.

the real difference between the two sigma's is HSM.... which allows super quiet and fast AF.

On a crop IMO you want to go for that 17-50 range... and the Tamron 17-50mm is a real winner on crop cameras.... I say get it! Im in the process of deciding wether I want the VC version or not of the Tammy.

Just remember long is longer on crop cameras and wide is wider on FF cameras.....

[mtakako]

Shot from this morning.

http://i921.photobucket.com/albums/ad53/mtakako/IMG_6530.jpg

[mtakako]

Another one from yesterday.

http://i921.photobucket.com/albums/ad53/mtakako/IMG_6557.jpg

[richierich1212]

I guess not too many people have this lens since its price is so close to Canon's L.

[Tony-S]

They sell a lot of them with Noink's mount. I bought mine because it's sharper than the Canon. Money wasn't an object.

[JF1980]

Does the lens not lose out with a minimum aperture of 22 rather than 32 on the Marco non-USM?

Ignoring the difference in length, focusing speed and price - which of the two is optically better?

[Tony-S]

I try to never shoot at f/22 because of diffraction. That's why I carry ND filters with me at all times.

Optically, the HSM is much better than the non-HSM macro version.

[JF1980]

I'm a little concerned that if I go for the USM I will not be able to take pictures with such a deep DoF or that I'll somehow lose out from not being able to run down to F32. I have no scientific basis for this it just seems that F2.8-F32 is better than F2.8-F22 because it's a wider range.

I quite like using a very small aperture for night shots so that I can take a long exposure and capture lots of movement.

[Tony-S]

Diffraction is a phenomenon in which small apertures compromise sharpness. Have a read here (http://www.bobatkins.com/photography/technical/diffraction.html). For full-frame (35mm) sensors this is f/16-22 and crop sensors it's f/11-16. I try not to go below f/16 on my 5Dii.

If you're shooting at f/32, then you're probably doing landscapes? If so, I wouldn't worry too much about 1 stop.

[JF1980]

Grrr, torn over which to buy, HSM or non-HSM. I had the 24-70mm EX DG Macro for a couple of years, dropped it recently (with the camera) and the insurance company are writing me a cheque as their suppliers can't give me a replacement for 14+ days. Choice is now whether I buy another DG Macro and have a little cash left in my pocket or pay out a bit extra and get the HSM.

I was never completely happy with the DG Macro, I always felt the focus was slightly out which meant some pictures that should have been 'wow' were just average. If I go for the HSM I'm going to have to buy it from Hong Kong as the UK prices are crazy (may as well buy the Canon L for what they want). Problem is it's then not covered by SIgma's warranty so if the focus is off more than the 50D can compensate for I'm going to be a very unhappy bunny.

Looking at the stats the HSM is heavier and only 1.5cm shorter than the Macro, maybe I'll be better sticking to one of those for almost half the price.

[stang8urmprt]

I'm new to this forum, but thought I'd comment.

I purchased the $350.00 28-70 Sigma f/2.8 ex lens from B&H and as soon as I put it on my T1i, I knew this purchase was a mistake. The images were completely useless at 2.8. The lens was also way out of focus. So I returned that lens and bought the new, much more expensive HSM version. It will be delivered today, and I will let you all know what I think about it.

I am worried about the focus problem others have had with this lens. Seeing my T1i does not have micro focus adjustment built in, I am apprehensive in sending this lens in for adjustment if needed. I don't want to be stuck with the lens if it is never up to par, focus wise, seeing the return policy states it must be returned within 15 days. And if I have to send my camera in with it, I don't believe I would keep the lens.

I'm just hoping for sharpness near my 70-200 f/4l Canon. That lens, by far, has been my best purchase so far.

I will let you know as soon as I try it out.

Nick