I had the A35~70/4.0. The focus feel was awful, I didn't care much for the macro or close focusing results, and the corner and edge sharpness and definition was, ummmm, less than stellar. When stopped down a bit the optical qualities improved, but not enough to make it a keeper. I believe it wasn't a true zoom, either, but, rather, a variable focus lens, where some adjustment was needed for focus whenever the lens was zoomed. My memory is a little hazy on that point, but be that as it may, if I'm going to suffer the downside of a zoom lens, I want a true zoom, which will hold its focus throughout the focal length.
Sure, lens hoods that don't work well when used on a full frame or 35mm slr because of vignetting may work quite well with a camera that uses an APS sized sensor. I can only report my experience for 35mm film cameras, and the original poster didn't ask about digi. Shel > [Original Message] > From: Godfrey DiGiorgi > What didn't you like about the A35-70? Which version? > > Just curious ... I recently acquired three 35-70s > > For the D/DS body, a standard screw in lens hood (designed for a > 35-50mm lens on 35mm film) works fine for this focal length range.
