philz Loc: Rockaway Township NJ

I purchased the 17-70 from B&H at Photo Expo three years ago as I liked the length even at f/4. But I found it was not as sharp as I hoped. So I returned it and purchased the 17-50 which I have used as my on camera lens ever since with results I find to be excellent. I solved the reach difference by using a Kenko 1.4x extender that makes the 17-50 a 24-70 at f/4 without adding bulk and still getting excellent quality. Essentially this gives me 27 mm to 112 mm on a full frame basis on my Canon 80D. Complemented with my Canon 70-200 mm f/4 L I have a system that works well for walkaround (using the 17-50 and for dedicated shoots with both lenses and the 1.4 extender. Quality has been outstanding.

dsmeltz Loc: Philadelphia

The 17-70 does not come in a constant 2.8. Sigma does make a 24-70 in a constant 2.8 for $1,299.00.

Royce Moss Loc: Irvine, CA

Thanks everybody for you answers to my question. Looks like I will go with the 17-50. I can check it out and if I don't like it I can always return it.

Photocraig

I've had and used the 17-70 for a few years. I like it so much that I replaced a stolen one with the same model. So nice I bought it twice. I found it was crisp, sharp, rendered good color and focused fast. Initially I was concerned about the variable aperture, but at 55mm or so-70mm, the f4 gets me the shots I want. The bokeh at 70mm f4 is pleasing and adequately isolates the subject. The IS OS is great and allowed me to get location shots at blue hour and slow shutter speed flash in the Studio Workshops. My only gripe is it weighs a pound.

I can't comment on the 17-50, but if the 17-70 is any indication you should expect good results. I rather think that the 17-70's added reach for an APS-C body should add some flexibility for club work. The thought brings back memories of 2 stop pushed Tri X at the Village Vanguard in the late 50's as a generously welcomed underage guest and listener. "Coca Cola for the young man."

Royce Moss Loc: Irvine, CA

Hey Craig thanks for the info. I really don't need much reach when i'm in the clubs mostly tight spaces so the 17-50 I think will be it. I think the constant would be best suited for the dark clubs. Ah the Village Vangard. We checked it out on a vacation to NY. I could feel the presence of Trane, Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers (my favorite) and Miles Davis playing, We also checked out The Blue Note, The Apollo, Birdland and Smalls. Greatest vacation I ever had.

wlgoin

I have the 17 -50 on a d7100 ,i use it for my main lens love it

Royce Moss Loc: Irvine, CA

Hi. you responded to my question about the Sigma 17-50. Mostly because of you comments I purchased one. Your right the lens is perfect for what I need it stays on my camera.

suntouched Loc: Sierra Vista AZ

Glad it was a good fit for you :)