Firstly, I will readily admit that I haven't shot enough frames with this lens
to give a *conclusive* review of it... but I do own it. And I must say that I
love this lens thus far! For one (you didn't ask about it, but) the "feel" and
the build quality are definitely to my liking (I'd say the build is "superb",
but then someone will surely nit-pick behind me).
As for the optics, personally I've been very pleased with it so far. I've only
used it for landscapes thus far, and almost always at or close to the 24mm end,
but the sharpness on the light-table has yet to let me down.
> Is this a good lens optically?
I'd say yes, with no reservations.
> I am comparing it to the tokina atx 28-80mm
> and Sigma 28-70mm and tamron 28-105mm.
Sorry... I can't compare since I only own this one.
> Much distortion at the 24mm end
I haven't noticed any distortion. That doesn't mean "no", but I guess it at
least means that it's not obvious. Sorry I can't give more details, but I'm
honestly not one to "test" lenses... I just use 'em until I find a problem.
> flare well controlled.
I've had no flare issues with this lens (and I'm very good at forgetting to use
the hood with it)... but then I've yet to use it to shoot directly into the sun.
HTH,
jerome
____
http://www.exposedfilm.net
