An affordable wideangle lens?

[systemA]

Hey all,

I'm looking to fill up the sub-17mm (as my current widest lens is the Sigma 17-70mm). I will be using it for interiors, buildings, and some landscapes, so I'm definitely looking for a rectilinear lens with little or no distortion. The distortion isn't THAT bad on the sigma, but I'd prefer not having to correct it in PP.

These are the lens I'm looking at (and the obvious choices):
10-20mm/4-5.6 - Sigma
12-24mm/4 - Pentax

I'm probably going to get heat for this, but compared to the different systems, it seems that to get a lens in this range will undoubtedly cost more, for ex.

12-24mm/4 Tokina (which I've read is the base model of the Pentax 12-24mm) just sold on the bay for $335 for the nikkor mount.

Then, eying the Sigma, I notice that it also sells for considerably less (around $50-100) and has HSM which the k-mount version lacks. Is this the cost of having a k-mount Pentax?

Rant aside, and since I don't mind using manual lens, is there anything that can bridge the gap (well, more pave the entrance) to my sub-17mm focal range that is a bit more affordable (~$300 or possibly sub $200)? I'd even settle for a prime at this point!

[deadwolfbones]

The HSM version of the Sigma is also available in K-mount, iirc.

The non-HSM version can be had for as low as $400 or less after cashback from 47th St. on eBay, but yeah, in general Pentax is more expensive than other mounts for wide-angle. Not sure why. Very frustrating when the Tokina is identical to the Pentax and the Pentax costs ~$250 more.

[PrimeObjectif]

I love my DA 14 f/2.8 even though it doesn't get the attention that the 12-24 and the 10-20 get. I haven't used the 12-24 or the Siggy, which seem to be darn good lenses lenses. If you look around, you may be able to pick up a used DA 14 for around 400. The 14mm focuses pretty darn close for a wide angle, and I think that makes it very versitile for a wide prime. You also won't have to go nuts doing PP corrections.

[ManixZero]

There is another alternative - Tamron 10-24mm

I have just bought one of these - too early to give an accurate review but I am happy with first impressions.

Don't know about US pricing but its the cheapest wide zoom here in Blighty

First couple of shots follow ---





I will be heading off next week to put it through its paces so more info then

Cheers MZ

[kibipod]

I have used DA 12-24mm in the past and can vouch for it. It is a fantastic lens. IQ is great. The downside I found was 77mm filter size - expensive investment in good quality filters.

[clawhammer]

I'll second a vote for the DA 14. I've used the sony variant of the sigma 10-20 on my brothers a700, and while the DA 14 isn't near as wide, I like the image quality better. It's built like a tank and can take some abuse.

[systemA]

Thanks everyone. The 10-24mm Tamron is certainly looking like a good option, as is the da 14mm and da 12-24mm, though they are out of my price range at the moment.