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z28quetzal
10th of April 2005 (Sun), 08:33
Hello

I am so hooked on this 'bug' abouot photography!! I have been doing tons of reading and research as to the best way to spend my money. Soon, I'll be a member of the club when I buy my first digital SLR. Please, forgive me for the following questions:

What does "DSM" mean in terms of lenses? I have seen this name attached to several lenses I have been looking at.

What is the difference between "USA" only and non-USA lenses? I have seen this at the B&H site. For example I was looking at the price of a 50mm lens and they have two available, a non-USA and a USA version.

thanks folks, and if I am asking the same question as others, please just point me to a thread and forgive me for being a pest.

Regards,
joe
pcasciola
10th of April 2005 (Sun), 08:41
I haven't seen DSM, but USM is Canon's term for Ultrasonic Motor, and Sigma has HSM (Hypersonic Motor). Those are generally the fastest, quietest focusing lenses.

USA and non-USA or "import" usually refers to the warranty. If you buy equipment marked as "imported" from B&H, for example, you have to return it to them if you have any problems.
z28quetzal
10th of April 2005 (Sun), 08:42
Sorry!!! I meant USM...

too many terms to learn!!!
pcasciola
10th of April 2005 (Sun), 08:49
No problem. I thought I was about to learn a new term for a minute. :lol:

Regarding the B&H import thing again, you really have to weigh the amount saved. Some lenses are only about $10 apart, so that doesn't really seem like it's worth it. But others, like the 70-200/2.8L IS, is $100 different, and you can add a 3 year Mack warranty for like $40-50 which seems like a better option, especially with an IS lens.
z28quetzal
10th of April 2005 (Sun), 09:27
Thank you Philip.

I went over to the B&H site and checked some prices. Indeed some have a very small price difference - makes sense to buy the 'USA' versions.

I've narrowed my decision to the 20D. No my problem is picking the lens.

thanks,
joe
Andy_T
10th of April 2005 (Sun), 10:18
Joe,

good decision - you are not going to regret it.

For lenses, take a look at the 'recommended starter lenses' thread in the User recommended lens section (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=56752).

If you don't want to spend too much initially and still have a half decent wide angle lens, it makes sens to also order the EF-S 18-55 kit lens.

Best regards,
Andy