Billbobboy42 Loc: Center of Delmarva

I read somewhere, probably not here, that the Tamron SP 90mm Macro f/2.8 was/is a very good lens and somewhat more economical (read cheaper) that the equivalent major manufacturer's model.

However, I'm not clear as to significant differences between two versions currently being offered for sale:

The less expensive model's nomenclature is "Tamron SP Macro 90mm f/2.8 DI" and priced below $400.00.

The more expensive model has "VC USD" added and is priced in the mid $700.00 range.

What is the "VC USD" and is it worth twice the price of the other model?

In case anyone is interested, I would be using it with a Canon 20D and a 6D.

Bill

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

VC stands for Vibration Compensation (IS in Canon speak) & USD is the acronym for Ultrasonic Silent Drive(USM in Canon speak)...Whether or not it is worth it to you likely depends on whether or not your camera requires a motor in the lens in order to auto focus or not...

DOOK Loc: Maclean, Australia

When I bought my Tamron 90mm Macro, VC was not yet available on that lens. Mine works great without it, & this lens is inherently tack sharp. IMO, you don't need VC on this lens, but either lens will make you happy. If you can afford the dearer version, go for it. :-)

wj cody Loc: springfield illinois

the tamron macros are lovely lenses. but best used with your camera on a tripod. so vibration issues, in that particular situation, would not be an issue.

Screamin Scott Loc: Marshfield Wi, Baltimore Md, now Dallas Ga

Depends on the subject & if they are using additional illumination. Insects don't sit still long enough in most cases to set up a tripod. Adding a light source allows you to stop down your aperture to increase your DOF (which is woefully thin as it is) plus it has the added benefit of stopping motion, be it the subject or the camera...

wj cody Loc: springfield illinois

hmmmm. never had that problem