I started out with the 2 tamrons 52b & 52bb. Got really good deals on both and only payed $50 for the 2 P/ka's that I attached. This was the beginning of my DSLR adventure also. At that time I really didn't want to deal with manual focus as a beginner so I sold them and purchased the Sigma.
Don't get me wrong, I know the Sigma is a good lens but my expectations are possibly too high. I also want a lens I can't blame. At this point I am not willing to take full responsibility for lack of capability. I can end this by getting the highest resovling lens so I have to take the blame. I am not really out of pocket much at all by playing with all these lenses. I am fairly safe with resale.
Maxwell1295, very good input and all important factors in first post, but more important is you understand, as stated in second post.
arpaagent, F series are near impossible to find. I think the FA is a favorite for many.
Wheatfield, good to know about photodo. I have heard them mentioned but thought they were reputable. Actually helps a lot knowing this because I now do not question the numbers on the FA from photozone.
Urmas R, It is hard to tell the difference between the Sigma and the Viv resolving wise. I really like the focus throw on the Vivitar though. It seems like it resovles better because it is actually in focus because of the throw.
dave9t5, no comment
kristoffon, you are right . I do spend far too much time in front of the computer. It does come down to knowing your gear, not by facts but by use.
Marc, if I had those then I wouldn't be here on my duff right now. You can end this madness by lending them to me so I can do a real world comparison myself.
Damn Brit,
monochrome, if I had known AF really wasn't an issue and the P/ka's weren't a pain I would still problaby have them, or not
Thanks for the help.
pcarfan, I seen you purchased the focal 2X tc and I though to myself if I had know you wanted one of those I would have just given you mine. I will finally get some use out of it now that I know there is a use. Let me know how you dissemble if you will.
I think now it is a search for a good copy of the FA 100.