Sony ZA 16-80mm vs...

[Harpooner]

I fancy upgrading the 18-55mm SAM that came with my a550 (a fool and his money are easily parted!)

I've spotted Jessops have the Sony ZA 16-80mm for £399 at the moment, which looks to be an excellent deal. I was considering the Sony 16-105mm, though one shop (LCE) has said it's no longer available from Sony and it is more money (£470).

Any other options to consider? I see there's a the Sigma 17-70mm f2.8-4 (DC Macro OS HSM) at £329.

Thanks,

Chris.

[Birma]

Hi Harpooner - I saw that Jessops price on the 16-80 ZA and it is tempting . I don't know if you've seen the rumours that suggest a replacement for the ZA 16-80 (new one with SSM?) is possibly just around the corner and this may account for the reduction in price.

Tamron and Sigma have nice lenses in this range. The Tamron 17-50 / 2.8 seems well thought of (including by me ) as does the Sigma 17-50 / 2.8. I do find 50mm a little short for a walk-around sometimes. I have a Minolta 24-105 which is a nice range, but I am rarely happy with pictures beyond the 70mm range, although this may just be me.

The Sony 16-105 is probably discontinued (i.e. they are not making new ones) but I suspect there is still stock about - see here http://camerapricebuster.co.uk/prod1061.html where it suggests that Jessops have it for £449.

[Harpooner]

Hi,

Yes, I saw the other post on here about the patents and a possible SSM model.

I'd like to go a little bit longer than 50/55mm to for the classic walk-around use.

Thanks,

Chris.