ClutchDisk Loc: Fayetteville, NC

I was looking at the Tamron 150-600mm lens for Nikon FX. From what I have read seems like a fine lens. On the Tamron site they had a service update. The update I have attached to this post from the Tamron site. My question addresses VC "on" and "off". From what I seem to understand is that the switch either "off" or "on" that the "VC" is on regardless. I have no problem at all with that. Reading other posts lens stabilization is recommended to be in the off position when tripod mounted. So what does the "VC" on and off do or don't do ? If I understand the update VC will always be on. Btw upgrade is not a you have to have done. Got long winded.
Not a debate about what lens is better. I'm thinking about getting this lens in the very near future. Tamron gives a good feeling in customer service and information on their web site.

Nikon Service Updates

SP 150-600mm VC Panning (MAY 2015)


Dear users and potential purchasers of Tamron interchangeable lenses
for SP150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD (Model A011) for Nikon/Canon.

Thank you for using our well-acclaimed Telezoom SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD.

This lens is a high quality Super Performance-Telezoom for various types of photography. Due to the original design, the use of VC (Vibration Compensation) function could potentially increase the probability of image blur when shooting fast-moving subjects, such as racing cars, using a panning technique.

We are pleased to advise you that the VC function of SP 150-600mm now can be updated to accommodate panning shots with VC Mode “ON”.
Whether you try to capture a stationary subject or something moving at a relatively high speed such as automobiles, the system automatically selects the optimal VC mode by detecting the motion of the camera/lens outfit. Thus, no switch-over is required between “ON” and “OFF” after the update.

The modification can be done by overwriting the firmware data at Tamron authorized service station. For handling procedures please contact our service department at 1-800-827-8880 (option 1) or by emailing us at custserv@tamron.com.

This update only effects lens performance when taking panning shots, so you may continue to enjoy the lens without this upgrade.

Please feel free to inquire any further details. Thank you very much.

Sincerely,
Tamron USA

wolfman

Here's an article that compares the Tamron, Sigma Sport & Sigma Contemporary 150-600's.
http://www.kruger-2-kalahari.com/tamron-vs-sigma-150-600.html
I have the Sigma Sport on order.
One advantage to the Sigma's, is the USB dock, for making adjustments and firmware updates right from your computer.

Bob

Jim Bob

Well what are the other "advantages", if any?

OddJobber Loc: Portland, OR

HEY, BOB AND JIM BOB! This is a perfect example of thread hiacking. He said, "Not a debate about what lens is better."

Thanks for the notice, Clutch. I recently got this lens. The VC problem would probably affect panning with birds in flight, so I'll check it out.

jcboy3

It's heavier, so it's less likely to be blown around by the wind.

OddJobber Loc: Portland, OR

Update for Clutch. That service notice has been out for a while and the newer lenses are being corrected at the factory. I called Tamron customer service and was told that the lens I bought in May already has that update. (Verified by serial #)

The 150-600 was/is very popular and was out of stock/back ordered at most places several months back, so anything on the shelf now should be good to go. :)

ClutchDisk Loc: Fayetteville, NC

That's good to know about the upgrades taken care of. The "on" and "off" switch has me a little confused though. If the switch is in the "off" position and the camera and lens move in a panning motion that the "vc" will come on automatically regardless off or on . I think I'm on the right track.

jethro779 Loc: Tucson, AZ

The way I read it is; When you put the lens on a tripod and pan on the tripod, if VC switch is in the on position the panning motion will be dampened so there is no vibration in the lens while taking the picture.

OddJobber Loc: Portland, OR

There is no auto on feature. Off is off.

ClutchDisk Loc: Fayetteville, NC

We are pleased to advise you that the VC function of SP 150-600mm now can be updated to accommodate panning shots with VC Mode “ON”.
Whether you try to capture a stationary subject or something moving at a relatively high speed such as automobiles, the system automatically selects the optimal VC mode by detecting the motion of the camera/lens outfit. Thus, no switch-over is required between “ON” and “OFF” after the update.

It is the last line. "No switch-over" and etc. got me. Since you have this lens what is meant by "switch over" ? I haven't seen the lens but I do have sigma and Nikon lenses that basically have vr "on" or "off" to say for simplicity sake, sigma has off position 1 and next one is position 2. Before the update with "vc" there was no panning stabilization ? I'm probably off base again. Best I take the 2 hour trip to the camera store. But what I have read seems like a fine lens. Ya'll take er easy. Later.

Bultaco Loc: Aiken, SC

Happens all to often. :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

Bloke Loc: Waynesboro, Pennsylvania

I don't move in the rarified air of these lenses, but I understand that some of the Big White lenses have 2 modes of IS/VC One of them is intended for panning, and it does not try to damp out motions in just a horizontal direction. It sounds like Tamron are implementing something like this, without requiring another switch on the lens.

I imagine that some of the bird shooters would be able to confirm this...

Jim Bob

Nice to be perfect. Thanks.

ClutchDisk Loc: Fayetteville, NC

Sounds reasonable.

edmcdowell Loc: Bonaire, Georgia

My biggest complaint about the UHH website - someone asks a question on a specific topic and others hijack the conversation and the next thing you know the discussion revolves around a completely different subject. Totally disconcerting.