CharleyS's reviews

  • Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Aspherical IF SP AF

    10 out of 10 points and recommended
    f/2.8 through out gives this lens great low light capabilities. Sharp images. Compact design.
    None so far

    I've read about Tamron's QC problems with this lens and I debated a long time about buying one, but all I can say is this is one GREAT lens!!!!
    I took about 100 test shots to try and find any of the problems I had read about, but I honestly can't find a single complaint.

    The only time this lens now comes off my D80 is when I need more zoom.

    This is the highest quality lens I own, so I don't have a "heavier" lens to compare it to, but the build quality to me is quite good. I could tell when I first picked it up that it is much more lens than the 18-55 nikkor kit lens it is replacing.

    If you are looking for a mid range zoom with great low light capabilities, I would highly recommend this lens. At this price point, this lens is a steal.

    reviewed December 26th, 2006 (purchased for $449)

  • Tamron 55-200mm f/4-5.6 Di II LD Macro AF

    8 out of 10 points and recommended
    Weight, Price, Image Quality
    Almost nonexistent MF ring

    I purchased this lens to compliment the 18-55 kit lens that came with my D80 and it is a good lens, especially for the price.

    At f/4-5.6 it shows it's limitations in low light, but for outdoor general use or indoors with flash, it produces really good images.

    When I can afford it I will be adding the Nikon 80-200mm f/2.8D ED AF to handle low light situations.

    The manual focus ring is terribly tiny, but I use manual focus so rarely it doesn't really effect me.

    If you are looking for a light walk around zoom, I would recommend you give this Tamron a try, I think you will be very happy with your purchase.

    reviewed December 26th, 2006 (purchased for $179)