[kxuser]

Does anyone know why this lens is on backorder everywhere? Is it being updated? Is it just in high demand?

I would like to get my hands on one to test it out, but it is nowhere to be found. Any insight would be helpful.

[omega leader]

I believe Sigma is replacing it with the OS (stabilized) version.

[kxuser]

Looks like you are correct.

I did some searching around the web, and all the major retailers have the OS version of the lens. Even Sigma's site labels it as "new!" I will probably have to spend the extra $80 and test this lens out.

Follow up question. Is the OS very helpful? I understand that it is an in-lens anti shake mechanism, but can anyone say from experience that the OS is much better? Also, with the OS on lens is it best to keep the K-x/K-7 shake reduction turned on or off?

Thanks

[FHPhotographer]

Here's the first review I've seen of the new 17-70 OS and some sample test shots (Canon). I'm sure there will be more.
Edit: I downloaded the church shots and looked at them up close and, unless I'm doing something wrong, they're all soft. Interested in getting some other opinions,
Brian

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Last edited by FHPhotographer; 04-10-2010 at 02:30 PM.

[kxuser]

Was doing some googling and found this.

Sigma’s Optical Stabiliser system reportedly offers a shutter speed saving around four stops. It’s compatible with the build in anti-shake function found in Sony and Pentax bodies also.

I don't know how trustworthy the site is, but I found it here

[jct us101]

I love the original 17-70mm, it is literally the sharpest lens that I have ever used. Apparently the Pentax mount is even sharper than my Canon mount lens that I had. If I could get an 18-135mm range lens with that sharpness I would never sell it.

[Arpe]

It's only compatible because you can use one OR the other. Sigma themselves tell you to use only one of them at a time.

[bdery]

I can only say that I love mine, it's my most-used lens. Excellent design, good balance between features, no real flaws.

[GeneV]

I love the original 17-70mm, it is literally the sharpest lens that I have ever used. Apparently the Pentax mount is even sharper than my Canon mount lens that I had. If I could get an 18-135mm range lens with that sharpness I would never sell it.

The peak range is around 17-70 for a high quality zoom on APS-c. Manufacturers seem to be able to make inexpensive zooms and even superzooms that perform well at the wide end, but aren't all that "super" at the tele end. However, the second number keeps growing, when a far more useful vacation lens range would be a high quality lens at 16-135.

[kxuser]

It's only compatible because you can use one OR the other. Sigma themselves tell you to use only one of them at a time.

Thanks for that answer. Thats what I was wondering.

[bc_the_path]

It is the only lens that I regret having sold.
Recommended without reservation (with or without stabilization, if it is of the same optical formula).

[jct us101]

I've had some lenses in this range that didn't turn out so nicely, but I agree that after 100mm things start to go downhill pretty fast.

[phillipb]

I just picked one up in the marketplace for a great price and have been quite pleased with the results. I haven't used it too much but I like what I'm seeing so far. It's a bit intimidating because of the humongous filter size when compared to the K-x body, but it gives the camera a real pro look that is actually somewhat pleasing.

[kxuser]

Just ordered the OS version from Amazon. That review gives it real solid marks, and right now I am still using my kit lens for the 18-55 range, so this will be a welcomed upgrade.

[kxuser]

I was able to snag the lens before it sold out again from amazon and took some shots of it, and one of the lens mounted on the K-x.

Now to go test it out!