Well IT'S HERE! The friendly UPS guy came bright and early at 9:00am and dropped it off. Next day air rocks!
First impressions:
Compared to my old non-IS lens, the overall build is much nicer. The rubber zoom and focus rings are made with a nicer material from what I can tell, and the turning action is dampened nicer, almost like my 17-40. The IS is PHENOMENAL. I never knew what I was missing, the 4 stop compensation is unbelievably helpful for this focal length. I can shoot at 1/20 200mm and it's as if I'm shooting at 1/320. The IS is a little noisy, but it's not a big deal. The switchgear is different than the non-IS, the recessed switches are easier to use and can't be accidentally bumped. It is also heavier than the non-IS. Not a huge increase, but enough for me to notice it.
Took a couple quick test shots around the house. I have to run some errands now, but I'll post up more shots later with 100% crops.
Temporary duck shot until it gets warmer : /
f/4, 1/60, 200mm
f/4, 1/10, 200mm
