70-200mm Tamron or Sigma

Well quiete a dilemna now, after months without being able to buy a 70-200mm both Tamron & Sigma versions are now available

Tamron http://www.cliftoncameras.co.uk/mod/Products/Tamron_70-200_mm_F2.8_Di_LD_(IF)_MACRO?gclid=CIK51q6mrJQCFQ6T1QodQx3Ftw

Sigma http://www.srsmicrosystems.co.uk/ProductDetails/mcs/productID/705/groupID/7/categoryID/71/v/78897173-98ec-4c7a-83ee-2d202e6e5347

So which would you go for??? Or should I go Pentax 50-135mm decisions decisions....

I have the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 & really like it so I am leaning to the tamron but the only review I have read says the autofocus is slow & hunts in low light, I shoot music gigs & festivals so this is essential, I have yet to read a Sigma review, but judging by the previous version this is the one to have.

AFAIAA, neither lens is actually available as yet, despite what the stores show. They both have projected release dates in August, though I contacted Intro2020 last week and they still have no idea when it will ship. The Sigma has also been delayed at least once so far.

As to which is better - probably trying both out will only tell. I'm quite interested in the Tamron as it's a little shorter, lighter and has better magnification for macro. That and I'm coming to quite dislike Sigma lenses.

That said, DepressingReview recently tested the Canon version of the Tamron and say that they found significant problems with the focusing mechanism. However, since it's probably going to be different for the Pentax that may be moot.

The Sigma is also meant to have what they called HSM (SDM) whereas the Tamron will be a screw-drive for the Pentax.

Lastly, you could also consider the Pentax 50-135mm which they seem to pitch as the equivalent when you take into account the sensor crop (I don't, but it seems to be their thinking). This lens seems to have proven to be of very high quality and solid manufacture from what I have read. It also sports SDM and full weather sealing which neither of the other two will offer. Oh, and it is definitely available now and SRS have a cracking price for it at the moment. May be a bit to short for me, though.

I read that review of the Canon lens, I thought the Sigma may have been released as SRS have only been taking deposits previously.

I feel the Pentax maybe to short, I tried my 135mm 2.8 at Glastonbury & felt it was short.

Its a tough call, I only have 2 local camera shops near me & neither stock Pentax fit lenses so I have to rely on internet reviews or recommendations sigh...

I love my 50-135, I was out in the rain on Sunday, happy in the knowledge it was fine, the lens hood even prevented rain getting on the front element so I could actually shoot in the rain! I have a Kenko 1.5 converter which takes it to a 75 to 200 f4 lens and retains SDM, though it does seem to hunt in low light, though I have not fully tested this. The Pentax SDM converter could come in a 1.4 version and might be weather sealed.

I have to say that my Sigma 18 to 200 does not give me 200 at close range, the angle of view is even very slightly less than the 50-135 ! It is better with a further subject. This does cast a doubt on Sigma for me.

Have you though about a prime such as the Pentax DA*200? At you gigs and festivles, how close do you get to the action?

Well, I could come and take them away for you if it'll make you happy!

(Especially that 500mm!)

Except for the 500m So far it's the only one that doesn't have swathes (exaggerating) of dust inside the lens.