[Von Ryan]

Is the Sigma 18-50mm EX F2.8 (non macro) any good? Or should I get something like the FA 50mm f/1.4?

Cheers

Pete

[platinum]

Sigma 18-50mm EX F2.8 macro is better.

or tamron 17-50

or

pentax 16-45, 17-70, 16-50

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50mm f/1.4 is good but not like Kit lens replacement.

if you can buy a Kit lens replacement + F or FA 50mm f/1.4

[Von Ryan]

Thanks for reply, I think the Pentax DA*16-50 is a bit out of my price range.

[Marc Sabatella]

Is the Sigma 18-50mm EX F2.8 (non macro) any good? Or should I get something like the FA 50mm f/1.4?

No way does the 50/1.4 - or any prime - function as a kit lens replacement. You've got a few options if you really want to do everything the kit lens can do, but do it better (or do more as well):

1) replace kit lens with another zoom that is faster, sharper, longer, or otherwise does what you wish the kit lens did better

2) keep kit lens, add a prime like the 50

3) replace kit lens with a series of primes

Of these, I'd personally pick #2 as the cheapest / most effective way of giving th tools needed to improve your photography.

[Von Ryan]

Thanks again for the reply. I find the kit lens too slow in fading light etc, I do have a flash; which don't use as much as I should (don't like the extra weight when chasing the kids around the garden).

[SpecialK]

I have the non-macro version and it is very good. It will get 5 keyboard keys in a frame, which is close enough for me.

Cameta Camera has them for about $280 via Amazon last time I looked

[Von Ryan]

Thanks SpecialK, unfortunately I live in UK where things are camera gear normally cost a lot more money. I can get a Tamron 17-50mm F2.8 for about £210 (Hong Kong supplier), or locally a 50mm f1.4 for £150. The Pentax 16-45 is about £200.

Hi Pete, you should consider getting the 50/1.4 regardless of what else you decide on. I only say that because it is a well thought of lens and considered reasonably priced and no one knows how long it is going to continue to be available.
Cheers

[Von Ryan]

Damm Brit thanks for advice, I think I'll take the plunge.

Thanks again gentlemen.

Pete

[Marc Sabatella]

Thanks again for the reply. I find the kit lens too slow in fading light etc, I do have a flash; which don't use as much as I should (don't like the extra weight when chasing the kids around the garden).

Note the f/2.8 zooms weigh quite a bit more than the kit lens too. If your goal is low light performance, I personally vote for a prime, which can be f/2.8 or faster and still be light.

[Von Ryan]

Thanks everyone