80 - 200 f2.8

I realize that this may be a bit of a loaded question, but is the Pentax SMCP-FA* 80-200mm f/2.8 ED IF that much better than the 3rd party lenses in the same range? I mean, the prices....

Has anyone tried both the Pentax and another 80-200 f2.8 ?

A Pentax SMCP-FA* 80-200mm f/2.8 ED IF just went for $900 on eBay... about 50% less than usual...

Not to me though - I was too busy trying to think of ways to justify the expense to my wife...

Still interested in any comments, though...

The 80-200 2.8 is a highly regarded lens, but it's getting a bit long in the tooth. It also doesn't fit the modern scheme, which is to have a short zoom from 16-18mm going up to 45 or 50mm,; then a long zoom from 50mm to anywhere between 135mm (nice and compact) up to 200mm (rather long on digital).

If I were replacing my 70-210, I would get the new 50-135. Relatively small and light (for a 2.8 ), and offering weather-sealing and SDM. I wouldn't look at the 80-200, and that is why the prices for these lenses are coming down.

G

I agree with G, I haven't missed my Sigma 70-200 f2.8 since replacing it with the DA*50-135 f2.8, an altogether more use full range on digi bodies IMO, I still have a DA50-200 for when the extra reach is required.

Wonder what the FA80-200 price will settle at, 9-12 months ago they were fetching well over a grand (before the DA*'s and SDM were anounced).