Dear Sigma...

[ZaphodB]

I see you are making an even newer version of your well regarded 70-200mm f/2.8.

Unfortunately the last time you re-designed this lens it seems you forgot that some people use Pentax SLRs and some of us would like long and fast teles. Indeed when you previously made them for us, they sold, and those who have them are in no hurry to let them go.

No matter. Perhaps you will remember us this time...

Thanks.

[Jodokast96]

I was just discussing this the other day with regards to the 50-150 f/2.8.

[egordon99]

Already emailed Sigma asking (1)if the 70-200mm would be available for Pentax, and (2)if it would have SDM/HSM focusing....I'll report back when I hear back.

Of course, I just purchased the DA* 50-135mm f/2.8, so if Sigma releases the 70-200mm for Pentax WITH HSM, I might just have to scrounge up some MORE cash to buy the Sigma as well.

[dkittle]

Like others, I've settled for Pentax's "80-200 equivalent", the 50-135mm. That said (and even though the 50-135 is fantastic), I'd still love a lens in the range of 80-200mm.

[egordon99]

Another route I may take is the DA* 60-250mm f/4. It's slower, but it seems like I would need the reach outdoors in decent light so I could live with f/4.

The 50-135mm is a great "little" lens, isn't it?

[alib99]

I am expecting that first quarter of 2008 will be full of new options for pentaxians both from pentax and 3rd party.
I have no base of course.

[ZaphodB]

Originally Posted by alib99

I am expecting that first quarter of 2008 will be full of new options for pentaxians both from pentax and 3rd party.
I have no base of course.

Oh the options should be there... Pentax are apparently going to be releasing some teles (according to the rumour mill, the long-awaited 60-250mm f/4 and fast primes), plus Tamron are supposed to be making their 70-200mm f/2.8 for Pentax, and if they can do it then presumably Sigma can (and hopefully this time around they will). So those of us wanting to buy quality long glass will be spoiled for choice. That's the theory... whether we can get our hands on any of those lenses in the first quarter of 2008 is another matter But I'm hopeful.

[blwnhr]

Originally Posted by egordon99

Another route I may take is the DA* 60-250mm f/4. It's slower, but it seems like I would need the reach outdoors in decent light so I could live with f/4.

I am thinking the same thing. If the DA* 60-250 and the Sigma 70-200 landed at the same time I would be torn. However if the 70-200 was HSM and they released a 1.4xTC with it...oh bliss

[jgredline]

LOL
I was about to post the same thing..
New Sigma 50-150 & 70-200: Digital Photography Review
Hopefully they remember us pentaxians

[Arpe]

Are the existing Sigma 1.4x EX compatible with HSM?

[egordon99]

No (at least not the Pentax mount versions)

Remember, up until a few months ago, Pentax HSM/SDM DID NOT EXIST! All autofocus was done via the screwdrive mechanism.

Originally Posted by Arpe

Are the existing Sigma 1.4x EX compatible with HSM?

[ZaphodB]

To be honest I could live with not having HSM, as when I tried the older (pre-DG) 70-200mm it was very fast to focus on my K100d (and presumably faster on the K100d). Just as long as the lens is available one way or another.

Btw for anyone who wants or thinks they might want to buy this lens, please vote and post on Peter Zack's new thread on the same subject.

[m8o]

Well, Tamron definitely is doing the 70-200 f/2.8 (clickme) in Pentax mount, which is supposed to be along the same lines as the venerable 28-75mm f/2.8 ... so I know within one calander year LBA will be striking once more for me, filling the gap in my 'kit'. If Sigma or Pentax don't want to do it, Tamron will...

[Buddha Jones]

Hooray Tamron!!

[jgredline]

Wow
That Tamron looks sweet!!!!!
Can't wait....