70-200 2.8 IS + 2x TC rumors???

I have read alot of reviews that the 2x TC degrads IQ ALOT when paired up with the 70-200 2.8.

I am planning to use the 2x TC outside in good light at the zoo. Can someone confirm that this combo will work decently or should I stick with the 1.4x TC?

Opinions please!

ErikM wrote in post #2912583
I have read alot of reviews that the 2x TC degrads IQ ALOT when paired up with the 70-200 2.8

It works a lot better 1 stop down at f8 (effective), both in terms of sharpness and contrast (especially). Most will say it's not good for them, but there are others that are just fine with using the 2x on it. Try it out and see for yourself. Using a 1.4x is quite good still.

i was not happy with the 2xtc i thought the images had less color less contrast and less sharpness my mates 100/400 was better by a fair bit - the 1.4 is better and gets close to the 100/400 IQ although shorter reach.
Rob.

I agree that it works a lot better stopped down.

I've posted a few shots in the following forums. Not sure the usefulness of the pics however...

(The one of my cat was shot wide open)
https://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthre​ad.php?t=290933
https://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthre​ad.php?t=291167

Given the fact that I don't go that long very often and the fact that I do not want to carry around another big and expensive lens, I think the combo is perfect for me.

IQ-wise, it really isn't that bad. I'm sure there's some loss if you compare with and without the TC, however it's still "good enough" for my taste. And I plan on using it outside only so plenty of light to stop it down...

I'm going to bring the combo with me on a trip this weekend. I'll see if I can capture something more interesting...

I use the 70-200mm f/2.8L IS with the 2x II TC and so far I've been pretty happy with the results. Sure, you lose two stops of light and some IQ, but in my experience it's still quite useable.

If I needed to shoot at 400mm more often, I'd go with a real 400mm lens certainly.

With the extender I didn't need to buy the 100-400mm or 400mm lenses and maintain weathersealing on the 70-200mm. The extender is smaller, lighter and cheaper than either of those lenses.

Oh yeah, since you have a 30D, then if your goal is to get to 400mm, then you can get the 1.4x.

200 x 1.6 x 1.4 = 448

Actually, I'm thinking about getting a second body (xt/xti/20d) just for the 1.6x crop factor...that would get me to 640mm with the 2x TC...

Thanks! Didn't even think about the 1.6x crop factor... however I am more interested in achieving a TRUE 400mm focal length.

Kinda depends on your own experience with IQ: are you used to great L quality or just consumer zooms? The 2x on the 70-200 is not as bad as many think it should be and I can see people doing it with a smile.

Ok now another question:

Should I go Canon or Kenko?

I'd go with the Canon, personally. It maintains weathersealing for one thing and probably has better IQ (can't say for sure on that as I've never owned a Kenko TC). It's designed by Canon for Canon lenses - good enough for me. I have a Kenko tube set and the fit and finish is nothing to write home about (in fact, I'd say it sucks - but works).

I went with Canon as well. I found the 2x MKII used for a very nice price which made the decision easier.

Nice build. Matches the "L" color. Weather sealing.

Overall a solid product.

Do you guys that use the 2x have any sample images of animals or sports etc?

Not animals or sports, but... Click for larger + info.

IMAGE LINK: http://litpixel.com/ee​/photo.php?photo=840

IMAGE LINK: http://litpixel.com/ee​/photo.php?photo=823

Thanks man those images really help... the sunset shot is fantastic!

ErikM wrote in post #2913024
Thanks man those images really help... the sunset shot is fantastic!

Thanks!

Now for the best part - those images were both handheld!