Sigma 100-300mm f/4 (D) EX DG IF lens

[Greg Beetham]

This is another Sigma lens that is really interesting, being constant aperture through the zoom range it's not such a worry about compatibility with the Minolta/Sony flash system, except for accurate reporting/interface of focus distance for ADI, the compatibility with the focus distance/zoom/magnification and SSS might also be an unknown, but might not be a major hassle...perhaps.
Just wondered if anyone has had a look at one or owned one...
Greg

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/3 ... ccessories

[David Kilpatrick]

If you can afford it... it's twice the price of the 70-200mm f2.8 Apo HSM II, and it is not HSM yet for Sony - that will come soon. The performance of this lens is WAY better than even the 70-200mm f2.8 and it is probably one of the best lenses made (absolute - one of the best lenses, from any make). Contrast is exceptional. But then, it is priced accordingly and the 82mm filter size plus nearly 1500g weight is not trivial. I've tested this lens in Sigma SA form and more recently on the Nikon D3, but not on Sony.

David

[Heidfirst]

The performance of this lens is WAY better than even the 70-200mm f2.8 and it is probably one of the best lenses made (absolute - one of the best lenses, from any make).

I have the older non-DG version of this lens & despite it's stellar reputation I've never been that impressed by it - possibly I have a poor copy.
I recently got the Sony 70-400mm G SSM & that does impress me, it's noticeably sharper than my 100-300/4.

[David Kilpatrick]

The DG lenses were a significant improvement, not just recoating. We compared the old 70-200 and new 70-200, and you could see the improvement easily even in the 6 megapixel images which were around at that time.

David

[Heidfirst]

So what did they improve other than just coatings, many of their lenses appeared to keep the same optical layouts?

[David Kilpatrick]

I don't know what the improved - maybe some small changes to mount design and assembly? The DG lenses are not necessarily identical designs, as some rear element curvatures react very badly with the sensor cover glass, and they will have taken steps to increase or reduce the curvature of the rear glass - presumably compensating with an opposing face.

David