Hello TDP-ers.


I'll try to make this as sweet as possible.


I have narrowed down the list of candidates to 3 lenses in purchasing/preference order:


1. Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD IF


The above lens faired well against the other two in this list and Henrys.ca pricing is $470.00+taxes. The proof is in the pudding, Bryan's review and this review gave this particular lens a passing mark on a price vs performance standpoint. The knock against this lens would be the so called *loud* AF motor and some CA at 17mm.


2.Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens


The above lens is fairly new and honestly speaking I like Sigma. This lens is listed at Henrys.ca for $879+taxes, however I've read mixed reviews here and here. I like the fact that it has OS and comparable to the Canon 17-55 2.8 IS USM - don't they all - LOL!


3. Canon 17-55 2.8 IS USM


Let's face it, this is the lens that all others are compared against in this focal range - the defacto! And though I would not disagree with others, where IQ is concerned, I do have reservations about the design and the premium pricing for this glass. Henrys.ca has this listed for $1299. As for the design, I must apologize but I do not like the so called trombone design. I had the 28-135 and though the glass was satisfactory the lens barrel did suck in dust - not much, but I found myself removing the front element to clean behind it every now and then.


I'm leaning towards my first entry, theTamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD IF not only of the price (half of the Sigma and a 1/3 of the Canon) but because the IQ at this price range. I have spent some good coin on the 24-105 and the 70-200 2.8 MII but with our Italy trip booked for 2 weeks and the cost incurred for that trip, I need to budget where I can. The Sigma 17-50mm F2.8 EX DC OS HSM Zoom Lens would be perfect but I cannot fathom the idea of spending near $1000. TheCanon 17-55 2.8 IS USM is out of my price range.


As for opinions, anyone out there in TDP world that has this particular lens and if possible, can you please provide images and opinions on this glass?


In typical fashion, thanks.


*edit* - fixed the links.