Fast standard zooms

[guest4]

Anybody got any ideas on the best choice for a fast standard zoom from the 3rd parties? Will be getting the insurance to replace my Pentax DA*16-50 and am thinking of going for something cheaper and diverting the surplus towards a GX20 instead of getting another GX10.

Am aware of Siggy 18-50 f2.8 and the Tamron 17-50 f2.8. Anybody know anything else that comes in a Pentax fit? Any views of which is best out of those two?

[bones615]

I have a Sigma 24-70 f2.8 and its never off the camera, I think they do a pentax fit. Bit longer than you are looking at but I kept the kit lens in case I needed wider but can not remember the last time I used it. Google it, the reviews I read rate it highly. Only downside is the size - 82mm filters are not cheap.

http://www.sigmaphoto.com/lenses/lenses_all_details.asp?id=3261&navigator=2




Simon

[guest4]

I did have think about that one but I tend to like my standard zooms biased towards the wide end. That seems to serve me better as a walkaround lens.

Anyway, have decided to go for the Tamron.

[jimthetrain]

I've got the tamron and with the 40D it is extremely sharp. Only downside is the plastic end of the lens is loose(where you put the filters on) and won't tighten up and the focus can be noisy but all in all well worth the money. 

[nickt]

I've got the Sigma 18-50mm and love it. I have it on the camera all the time. I don't think you'll be disapointed with it.
Nick

[Colin]

Whilst not quite as fast the Sigma 17-70 is worth a look if you need something a little wider and you are willing to give up some speed.

[Offertonhatter]

I have heard nothing but positives for the Tamron, so if you are going for that, good choice. Personally I don't have it (yet) only the Pentax 16-45 F4, which is great, and the Sigma 24-70 F2.8, which again is great but weighty. Having said that, the Sigma with either the K10D or K20D and grip is well balanced.