Thanks all for your replies!


I'm pretty sure now that I'll get the Tamron. I really don't think the IS is critical for this focal length as I have excessive experience using my 24-70L in low light and it works just fine. 1/2 of the price, size and weight of the Canon 17-55/2.8 IS is a huge plus too.


Is the Canon a good lens and somewhat better than the Tamron overall? Sure. But my problem is that it's so hard for me to justfy the extra cost - the Canon simply is too much for what it is.


I'll get the Tamron home quick before my travel starts. I'll compare between at least 2 or 3 copies and pick one that I think is the sharpest.


Ben