From 75-300 IS to 70-200 f4?

[Paul_O]

I've been using a 75-300 IS USM for a little over a year on my 300D and have generally been happy with the results........ until I borrowed a friends 70-200 f4 :oops:

I'm now very seriously considering getting the 70-200 f4 however the extra 100mm I have comes in handy. I'd have to sell the 75-300 to help finance the 70-200 which is what I consider to be an expensive lens, good value but still expensive so I won't be able to get a 1.4x TC to compensate in the near future.
Now, as everybody knows the 75-300 is pretty soft above 200mm, so the question is would I better off cropping the 70-200mm shots to increase the subject view or stick with the current lens?
The majority of my photography is landscapes and such but I enjoy taking bird pics as well when out and about. Does anyone have any thoughts on which would get the better results?

Paul

[mr.photoguy]

I just use a 1.5x converter till I can purchase a longer lense.. maybe a 100-400 or something of the sort.

works good so far.
I don't know how good a 2x converter would work, but It might degrade the image quality to much. It would be best to ask one of the birding guys.

[mdr]

Changed from the 75-300mm IS to the 70-200mm f4 L IS, and yes, it's absolutely worth it :). Subsequently bought the 1.4x TC Mk I to get that extra reach. Although the lack of IS is a slight loss, the results are absolutely worth it :D.

It's not just the obvious quality, it's also night and day difference if you compare the auto focus and built quality. Even without the 1.4x TC, I would not dream to go back to the 75-300mm IS.

Check the second hand market, as you may be able to lay your hands on a second hand 70-200 f4 L and 1.4x TC Mk I (same optical quality as the Mk II!) for the same as the new price of a 70-200mm f4 L, just like I did two months ago :D.