Best lens for concert photography

what is the best lens for low light concert photography on a 1.6x? I would think one of the 50mm or 85mm primes but what do I know, I am just an amatuer.

Depends on how close to the stage you plan on being? If you are right up front, I have found the 17-55 F2.8 IS to be an awesome concert lens. If you have abit more room, then perhaps the 85mm F1.8 would be cool.

35L, 50 1.4, 85L, 70-200 IS would be a great kit. But for only 1 I would choose 85L

I would say.. 17-55 IS and 70-200 2.8 IS.
And you already got half of it.

17-55 IS and 70-200 2.8 IS = perfect combo!
but u might need 2 bodies if u want both range, cuz concerts are so dark...

Speed is king in many cases as lighting can be very challenging. Focal length depends on the venue and how close you'll be to the stage.

I just got a 85 1.8 for that very reason. For the price its tough to beat.

I think the 85L is suitable. Altho mine is OTW but Im sure that is the most perfect lens.

Another vote for the 17-55, F/2.8 and IS

i would recommend 1.8 or 1.4 primes before anything else. shooting with such large apertures will allow you to freeze the subject even better or reduce your ISO. Just my 2 cents.

I would recommend a 50mm prime, 85mm prime, or that 100mm prime, depending on the working distance.

I think ideally you need a fast prime and a fast zoom, but if you can only go for one, then the prime is the best option.

I use the 24-70mm f/2.8L and the 70-200mm f/2.8L (non-IS), and I couldn't be happier.

I will, on occasion, use the 85mm f/1.8, but I find the f/2.8's are plenty fast enough, and also give me the flexibility of varied focal lengths...

Depends on the venue you're shooting (how big, how wel lit), and the type of image (close up, overview).
The 70-200 f/2,8 is nice, as are the 50/1.4 and 85/1.8.
Sigma 30/1.4 should be nice as well, as is the 20/1.8
I use anything between 20 and 200mm on my 1D2.

Have a look at the 'Performing Arts" FAQ.