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12-28-2010, 07:30 AM   #1
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Looking for versatile sub $500 kit lens replacement

I currently have the k-x with the 18-55, the A 50mm 1.7, and the 55-300 kit lens. I'm looking for an upgrade from the 18-55.

I find myself trying to use the 55-300 in every situation because I like it better but at times just need something wider. I'd like to find a better IQ lens that I could use for landscape and portraits.

Any suggestions?

12-28-2010, 07:53 AM   #2
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Tamron 17-50 f2.8.
12-28-2010, 08:01 AM   #3
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DA17-70 would be my choice ($479 at b&h)
12-28-2010, 08:15 AM   #4
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DA 18-250

The only lens Pentax made that can be used to replace both the 18-55 and 55-300 under $500.

12-28-2010, 08:16 AM   #5
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Tamron 17-50 or 28-75 - Both are awesome lenses depending on your need (I ended up having both)
12-28-2010, 08:25 AM   #6
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+1 for Tamron 17-50 / 28-75 1:2.8.
12-28-2010, 08:50 AM   #7
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QuoteOriginally posted by boriscleto Quote
DA 18-250

The only lens Pentax made that can be used to replace both the 18-55 and 55-300 under $500.
Sorry if I wasnt clear, I dont want to replace the 55-300. Just the 18-55. Thanks everyone for your responses.

12-28-2010, 08:56 AM   #8
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QuoteOriginally posted by tnis0612 Quote
Sorry if I wasnt clear, I dont want to replace the 55-300. Just the 18-55. Thanks everyone for your responses.
In that case look at the new DA 18-135. You can get it for less than $500.
12-28-2010, 09:03 AM   #9
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QuoteOriginally posted by jolepp Quote
+1 for Tamron 17-50 / 28-75 1:2.8.
+2 for either of the Tamrons.
12-28-2010, 09:33 AM   #10
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how about get rid of all your lens, get the DA 18-135mm WR, and Tamron 17-50/2.8
12-28-2010, 09:45 AM   #11
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I was in the same situation as you. Love the 55-300mm but just wasn't as happy w/ the 18-55mm. That Tamron that is being recommended can be rather expensive... I ended up buying a used SMC Pentax-DA 16-45mm F4 from the marketplace, and it is a considerable step up from the 18-55mm. The difference is not only in quality of pics, but that extra 2mm at the wide end is quite noticeable.
12-28-2010, 10:45 AM   #12
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The Tamron 17-50 1:2.8 seems to go for $414: AF016P700 Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR DI-II LD Aspherical (IF) Standard Zoom Lens for Pentax, 6 Year USA Warranty. Might be a best get this new from a reputable dealer, there have been reports of front/back focusing pieces.
12-28-2010, 12:10 PM   #13
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QuoteOriginally posted by mgvh Quote
I was in the same situation as you. Love the 55-300mm but just wasn't as happy w/ the 18-55mm. That Tamron that is being recommended can be rather expensive... I ended up buying a used SMC Pentax-DA 16-45mm F4 from the marketplace, and it is a considerable step up from the 18-55mm. The difference is not only in quality of pics, but that extra 2mm at the wide end is quite noticeable.
This would be my recommendation as well, as you get that extra wide angle and a constant f4 aperture. You already have a fast prime--the question you should ask is do you really need a fast f2.8 zoom. If you don't I think the DA16-45 is the way to go.
12-28-2010, 12:27 PM   #14
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If low-light performance is important : 17-50mm f2.8

if not: either Pentax 17-70mm or a 18-135mm cover a pretty useful range.

Michel
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