> Date: Tue, 1 Dec 1998 12:14:37 -0500 > From: "Michael O'Hara" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> > Subject: Nikon 75-300 [v04.n143/23] > Message: 23 > but I keep getting tempted by other brands > lower prices and claims of better specs. I have NEVER had a > salesperson say anything other than "yeah, that lens is really > sharp." The truth is Michael, that with current construction methods, materials and computerised design techniques virtually all reputable brands today do indeed turn out consistently sharp lenses. Tokina, Tamron, Sigma etc., make some optically excellent stuff. Some of their really cheap end products are only so-so, but if they really pull the stops out they can do it. I had a blisteringly sharp Tamron 180/2.5 a few years ago, and I also used the Sigma 70-300 APO Macro - and sold several full page colour spreads to major magazines from it. However...... that said, I still prefer Nikkors and (heresy!) Canon lenses above all others. They are very well built, tend to have consistent colour balance (one thing you do not get if you mix brands) and you also get guaranteed electronic/mechanical compatibility. Andy C. Highfield
