Because of the increasing popularity of digital SLR cameras, Tamron has been upgrading their line of lenses to the "Digitally integrated" (Di) standard, employing methods discussed in our Technology sidebar.

BACKGROUND I had been looking to replace the so-so kit lens on my Canon 400d and agonised over the possible options for several weeks. I wanted a lens to broadly replace the kit lens range of 18-55mm - with a good wide angle and some telephoto zoom, but not too much of a range so that optical...

Image sharpness; constant f2 .

Some distortion at widest setting; motor noise

Originally posted 2006-06-26 on Optyczne.pl In February 2006 Tamron introduced three new lenses. Of these, the Tamron SP AF 17-50 mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD ASPHERICAL [IF] looked especially interesting, which like all Tamrons models, could easily compete in a long name contest.

visible chromatic aberration; vignetting at the whole focal length range (although the vignetting is even bigger for competitors at the same price range,; visible coma at f/2.8

I bought this lens in Edmonton from the new Vistek store in August this year. I thought that I would try it out first. The bench test reports are true to their words. This is an excellent lens and it only cost a fraction of the Canon brand. I realise the Canon lens has IS.

The Tamron AF 17-50mm f/2.8 SP XR Di II LD Aspherical [IF] VC is a very promising lens based on its specifications. However, it falls somewhat short of the high expectations especially when considering the excellent performance of its non-VC variant.

The Tamron AF 17-50mm f/2.8 SP XR Di II LD Aspherical [IF] is a very serious performer capable to deliver very sharp images at all focal lengths. Vignetting and distortion are about average for a lens in this class. CAs are a bit on the high side towards the short end of the focal range.

There are many similarities between the Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR zoom and Sigma's 18-50mm f/2.8 EX, not least because both use professional-grade optics. Deeper under the skin, they share a seven-blade iris and have almost the same dimensions and mass.

Compact and keenly priced

Slight stiffness on zoom ring

Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD ASPH (IF) is one of the first 3rd-party standard zoom lenses designed for the APS-C size bodies. Prices at about US$370 (as of October 2007) the lens is quite affordable for the mainstream consumers.

Finally, a fast, stable lens at an affordable price.

Consistent Output; Durable; Easily Interchangeable; Quick Focus; Sharp Focus; Strong Construction

In one day after placing the order i realized that the UV filter i chose was wrong. They replaced it with a right one (which was more expensive) and did not charge me additionally! The camera and lenses were in brand new condition. Delivery was fast. The price was amazing.

Very fast and flexible