Thanks for the feedback. I checked out the Ephotozine test on the Pentax version (
Pentax HD Pentax-D FA 24-70mm f/2.8 ED SDM WR Review) and compared it with the Tamron version they tested earlier in 2012 (
Tamron SP 24-70mm f/2.8 VC USD Lens Review). It goes to show how we might be mislead in lens choosing from charts. If I have these Ephotozine charts correct, the Tamron test reflects what I'm finding - it does show a similarity to the DA*16-50 characteristics that I know well. It does not reflect their 24-70 test results.
I'm not especially stressed up by my findings so far (it *is* early days with this set). I had hoped to move to FF and have a lens that I didn't have to think about as I said. The reviews suggested I would have a flat response etc. But we know these reviews have their flaws, don't we ?
Whilst I don't obsess with the 100% view on screen, I am aware that the prints I make and sell regularly (with K-3 bodies), are appreciated for their sharpness. I've just made and framed an A1 sized commission (taken on K-3 /DA*50-135 - a detailed misty woodland scene ) and my customer was very pleased with the finished product, going on and on about the detail in the twigs and debris that littered the foreground and extremes of the shot. It is why I *do* spend time looking at the periphery of a shot at 100%, and why it does matter to me. This worked OK with the DA* 16-50/50-135 gear. I now appreciate I'll be concerning myself with the 24-70s variations as I've had to do before. Although, as I've said, the 1:1 crop option in firmware 1.3 does offer me a lot of new compositional options, which will probably negate some of the 24-70's frame softness at the extremes.
Much to learn from the lens, sadly. Just as things get busy for me as we move into the autumn/fall season and the run-up to several Christmas events I'm at. Nothing's easy ...