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**Cerebum** · 07-05-2018, 11:54 PM

These competitions are brilliant. The need to increase the boost rate means I can ask questions that have probably been asked a million times before without anyone tearing me a new one

OK. I have a sigma 28-80mm macro and it is 'orrible! However, when I looked at what it produces I was very pleasantly surprised. The Chinese toy plastics hide a really useful and fun lens that is great for newbies as it is also ridiculously cheap (mine was £25). Which leads me to my question. Do you have a favourite sigma? Is there one that in your opinion everyone should own? Is there an undiscovered gem that can be acquired for very little outlay?

I have a tremendous kit in so far as I have my focal lengths covered (pentax 10-17, 18-135 & da-l 55-300) and I have a big box of vintage primes. I was looking at the 18-250 but decided against it but I am open to previously unconsidered cheap non-pentax brands if they come Pentax forums recommended. I would also like an AF wide-ish angle, The only AF prime I have is the smc da 35mm. So, is there anything I should be looking at?

**pepperberry farm** · 07-06-2018, 12:41 AM

my favorite Sigma lens is my 28mm f1.8 EX DG - great color/sharpness/bokeh and it's close-focusing ability make it a very versatile lens...

**Cerebum** · 07-06-2018, 01:52 AM

Originally posted by pepperberry farm

my favorite Sigma lens is my 28mm f1.8 EX DG - great color/sharpness/bokeh and it's close-focusing ability make it a very versatile lens...

This is going to be one of those "...and you can get one for just $500!" Situations isn't it! You get me all enthusiastic then I see the price

OK, time to check it out

thanks

**pepperberry farm** · 07-06-2018, 03:48 AM

Originally posted by Cerebum

This is going to be one of those "...and you can get one for just $500!" Situations isn't it! You get me all enthusiastic then I see the price

OK, time to check it out

thanks

I rarely purchase new lenses and even then I tend to pick/wait/stumble across bargains...

I did purchase this lens new, but it was a discontinued/clearance item from Adorama at $239...

**Cerebum** · 07-06-2018, 04:11 AM

Yep, as suspected, £400+. Although the 35mm art lens is reasonably priced

---------- Post added 07-06-18 at 04:17 AM ----------

Originally posted by pepperberry farm

I rarely purchase new lenses and even then I tend to pick/wait/stumble across bargains...

I did purchase this lens new, but it was a discontinued/clearance item from Adorama at $239...

Same here, and i have had some real bargains off fleabay. I am up around the 30 lens mark, of which one was new, my fantastic Pentax fish eye which was on offer at £295. It is nice to buy new though as you get all the lovely paperwork that you subsequently throw away

**tonezime** · 07-06-2018, 05:46 AM

The Sigma super-wide (24mm f2.8) is great if you can find an AF version. MF is usually $60-100.

**TER-OR** · 07-06-2018, 05:46 AM - **2 Likes**

I have the Sigma 28mm f1.8 macro as well, it is a nice lens.
I've played with the Sigma 8-16 as well, and that is decidedly not an inexpensive lens. It's unique, though.

I've heard a lot of good things about Tamron's 90mm macro in comparison with the Pentax 100mm and Sigma 105s. I think they'd all suit someone doing insect work.

**Skodadriver** · 07-06-2018, 06:08 AM - **1 Like**

I do not have many Sigma lenses but one of them is a gem. The 50mm F:2.8 macro.
1:1 macro is great for small insects and flowers, I will not bore you with lots of images or even my favourites, just this recent one.
Mine is a manual focus lens that looks like it has been through the wars, the painted on distance markings are not quite all there. I understand they do an AF version too.

bm75 · 07-06-2018, 07:03 AM

I have\had got Sigma 10-20 f3,5 APSC lens, 70-200 2,8 EX DG HSM , 24-35 f2 Art. All of them are good to exceptional lenses in their own way. Sigma lenses are now as good as original manufacturers. Some lenses exists just in sigma lineup 18-35 1,8 50-100 1,8 24-35 2,0 and their fast primes are marvelous.

**pres589** · 07-06-2018, 07:26 AM - **1 Like**

The Sigma Mini-Wide is a 28mm optic that didn't come in an AF version. The Super-Wide came in three versions; original, Super-Wide II, and Super-Wide II AF. The IQ is supposed to improve with every version of the Super-Wide. I don't think the Mini-Wide is anything special although it's not bad either.

I like the 28mm EX as previously mentioned although it's large, heavy, and I don't think the AF is especially accurate (I have been told that this is not the case, your mileage may vary). I had an older copy of the 17-70 which was really useful for travel.

I kind of want a Super-Wide II AF as a 35mm equivalent on a crop body. Here's what I would do after reading your post and considering the lenses you already own;

I can't see any reason to consider a super-zoom like the 18-250. The 18-135 and 55-300's are great. Consider a lens like the DA 15 or Sigma 10-20 or 8-16. I don't get a feeling for what else you're missing; are you okay with focusing those vintage primes? If so, I think we're done here. If not, what focal length are you most interested in? 50mm on crop is nice for portraits and subject isolation; the DA 50 1.8 punches well above its weight here, in my estimation. A used DA 70 would also be nice here.

**ChipB** · 07-06-2018, 07:49 AM - **1 Like**

Over the years I've owned several Sigma and Tamron lenses - along with many Pentax lenses. Eventually, I pretty much settled on the Sigma 17-70 f2.8-4.5 DC Macro Lens (non HSM) as my main, go-to lens (Sigma calls it "macro", I call it "close-up"). Very good images from near to far. Very reasonable price-wise - can usually be had for less than $150 USD.

stevebrot · 07-06-2018, 08:10 AM

Originally posted by Cerebum

Do you have a favourite sigma? Is there one that in your opinion everyone should own? Is there an undiscovered gem that can be acquired for very little outlay?

I own two of their lenses (both recent build) and am quite happy. I don't shop vintage Sigma, however. The mini-wides have their fans on this site, but most of their stuff prior to the last decade or so (pre-2005) was a bit "down-market" at the time it was sold.

Steve

**tonezime** · 07-06-2018, 08:45 AM

Originally posted by pres589

The Sigma Mini-Wide is a 28mm optic that didn't come in an AF version. The Super-Wide came in three versions; original, Super-Wide II, and Super-Wide II AF.

Sorry, yes, updated my post. I meant the Super-Wide. I've used the Super-Wide II in MF and I've read that the AF is just as good.

**tonezime** · 07-06-2018, 08:47 AM

Originally posted by pres589

I kind of want a Super-Wide II AF as a 35mm equivalent on a crop body.

You're in luck, KEH has one right now (EX, $168): Sigma 24mm F/2.8 Super-Wide II Macro Autofocus Lens For Pentax K Mount {52} at KEH Camera Store

**pepperberry farm** · 07-06-2018, 08:50 AM

Originally posted by TER-OR

I've heard a lot of good things about Tamron's 90mm macro in comparison with the Pentax 100mm and Sigma 105s. I think they'd all suit someone doing insect work.

agreed - Tamron's 90mm macro, all the way back to the Adaptall mount and going forward, is an exemplary lens....

07-05-2018, 11:54 PM	#1
Cerebum Site Supporter Join Date: Oct 2017 Location: Lancaster Photos: Gallery Posts: 3,829	Sigma/Tamron lens recommendations These competitions are brilliant. The need to increase the boost rate means I can ask questions that have probably been asked a million times before without anyone tearing me a new one OK. I have a sigma 28-80mm macro and it is 'orrible! However, when I looked at what it produces I was very pleasantly surprised. The Chinese toy plastics hide a really useful and fun lens that is great for newbies as it is also ridiculously cheap (mine was £25). Which leads me to my question. Do you have a favourite sigma? Is there one that in your opinion everyone should own? Is there an undiscovered gem that can be acquired for very little outlay? I have a tremendous kit in so far as I have my focal lengths covered (pentax 10-17, 18-135 & da-l 55-300) and I have a big box of vintage primes. I was looking at the 18-250 but decided against it but I am open to previously unconsidered cheap non-pentax brands if they come Pentax forums recommended. I would also like an AF wide-ish angle, The only AF prime I have is the smc da 35mm. So, is there anything I should be looking at?

07-06-2018, 05:46 AM	#6
tonezime Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2015 Location: Pittsburgh, PA Posts: 445	The Sigma super-wide (24mm f2.8) is great if you can find an AF version. MF is usually $60-100. Last edited by tonezime; 07-06-2018 at 08:44 AM. Reason: mini -> super

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07-06-2018, 12:41 AM	#2
pepperberry farm amateur dirt farmer Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: probably out in a field somewhere... Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 41,781	my favorite Sigma lens is my 28mm f1.8 EX DG - great color/sharpness/bokeh and it's close-focusing ability make it a very versatile lens...

07-06-2018, 01:52 AM	#3
Cerebum Site Supporter Join Date: Oct 2017 Location: Lancaster Photos: Gallery Posts: 3,829 Original Poster	Originally posted by pepperberry farm my favorite Sigma lens is my 28mm f1.8 EX DG - great color/sharpness/bokeh and it's close-focusing ability make it a very versatile lens... This is going to be one of those "...and you can get one for just $500!" Situations isn't it! You get me all enthusiastic then I see the price OK, time to check it out thanks

07-06-2018, 03:48 AM	#4
pepperberry farm amateur dirt farmer Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: probably out in a field somewhere... Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 41,781	Originally posted by Cerebum This is going to be one of those "...and you can get one for just $500!" Situations isn't it! You get me all enthusiastic then I see the price OK, time to check it out thanks I rarely purchase new lenses and even then I tend to pick/wait/stumble across bargains... I did purchase this lens new, but it was a discontinued/clearance item from Adorama at $239...

07-06-2018, 04:11 AM	#5
Cerebum Site Supporter Join Date: Oct 2017 Location: Lancaster Photos: Gallery Posts: 3,829 Original Poster	Yep, as suspected, £400+. Although the 35mm art lens is reasonably priced ---------- Post added 07-06-18 at 04:17 AM ---------- Originally posted by pepperberry farm I rarely purchase new lenses and even then I tend to pick/wait/stumble across bargains... I did purchase this lens new, but it was a discontinued/clearance item from Adorama at $239... Same here, and i have had some real bargains off fleabay. I am up around the 30 lens mark, of which one was new, my fantastic Pentax fish eye which was on offer at £295. It is nice to buy new though as you get all the lovely paperwork that you subsequently throw away

07-06-2018, 05:46 AM - 2 Likes	#7
TER-OR Site Supporter Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Dundee, IL Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 6,699	I have the Sigma 28mm f1.8 macro as well, it is a nice lens. I've played with the Sigma 8-16 as well, and that is decidedly not an inexpensive lens. It's unique, though. I've heard a lot of good things about Tamron's 90mm macro in comparison with the Pentax 100mm and Sigma 105s. I think they'd all suit someone doing insect work.

07-06-2018, 07:03 AM	#9
bm75 Veteran Member Join Date: Aug 2014 Location: Italia Photos: Albums Posts: 354	I have\had got Sigma 10-20 f3,5 APSC lens, 70-200 2,8 EX DG HSM , 24-35 f2 Art. All of them are good to exceptional lenses in their own way. Sigma lenses are now as good as original manufacturers. Some lenses exists just in sigma lineup 18-35 1,8 50-100 1,8 24-35 2,0 and their fast primes are marvelous.

07-06-2018, 07:26 AM - 1 Like	#10
pres589 Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2014 Location: Wichita, KS Photos: Albums Posts: 4,533	The Sigma Mini-Wide is a 28mm optic that didn't come in an AF version. The Super-Wide came in three versions; original, Super-Wide II, and Super-Wide II AF. The IQ is supposed to improve with every version of the Super-Wide. I don't think the Mini-Wide is anything special although it's not bad either. I like the 28mm EX as previously mentioned although it's large, heavy, and I don't think the AF is especially accurate (I have been told that this is not the case, your mileage may vary). I had an older copy of the 17-70 which was really useful for travel. I kind of want a Super-Wide II AF as a 35mm equivalent on a crop body. Here's what I would do after reading your post and considering the lenses you already own; I can't see any reason to consider a super-zoom like the 18-250. The 18-135 and 55-300's are great. Consider a lens like the DA 15 or Sigma 10-20 or 8-16. I don't get a feeling for what else you're missing; are you okay with focusing those vintage primes? If so, I think we're done here. If not, what focal length are you most interested in? 50mm on crop is nice for portraits and subject isolation; the DA 50 1.8 punches well above its weight here, in my estimation. A used DA 70 would also be nice here.

07-06-2018, 07:49 AM - 1 Like	#11
ChipB Site Supporter Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Eau Claire, WI Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 2,717	Over the years I've owned several Sigma and Tamron lenses - along with many Pentax lenses. Eventually, I pretty much settled on the Sigma 17-70 f2.8-4.5 DC Macro Lens (non HSM) as my main, go-to lens (Sigma calls it "macro", I call it "close-up"). Very good images from near to far. Very reasonable price-wise - can usually be had for less than $150 USD.

07-06-2018, 08:10 AM	#12
stevebrot Otis Memorial Pentaxian Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Vancouver (USA) Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 42,007	Originally posted by Cerebum Do you have a favourite sigma? Is there one that in your opinion everyone should own? Is there an undiscovered gem that can be acquired for very little outlay? I own two of their lenses (both recent build) and am quite happy. I don't shop vintage Sigma, however. The mini-wides have their fans on this site, but most of their stuff prior to the last decade or so (pre-2005) was a bit "down-market" at the time it was sold. Steve

07-06-2018, 08:45 AM	#13
tonezime Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2015 Location: Pittsburgh, PA Posts: 445	Originally posted by pres589 The Sigma Mini-Wide is a 28mm optic that didn't come in an AF version. The Super-Wide came in three versions; original, Super-Wide II, and Super-Wide II AF. Sorry, yes, updated my post. I meant the Super-Wide. I've used the Super-Wide II in MF and I've read that the AF is just as good.

07-06-2018, 08:47 AM	#14
tonezime Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2015 Location: Pittsburgh, PA Posts: 445	Originally posted by pres589 I kind of want a Super-Wide II AF as a 35mm equivalent on a crop body. You're in luck, KEH has one right now (EX, $168): Sigma 24mm F/2.8 Super-Wide II Macro Autofocus Lens For Pentax K Mount {52} at KEH Camera Store

07-06-2018, 08:50 AM	#15
pepperberry farm amateur dirt farmer Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: probably out in a field somewhere... Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 41,781	Originally posted by TER-OR I've heard a lot of good things about Tamron's 90mm macro in comparison with the Pentax 100mm and Sigma 105s. I think they'd all suit someone doing insect work. agreed - Tamron's 90mm macro, all the way back to the Adaptall mount and going forward, is an exemplary lens....

Sigma/Tamron lens recommendations

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