Are these tests accurate? Do you find the SQF tables informative, and more importantly, would you base your lens buying decisions in part or wholly upon these tables?

I ask for several reasons. I just looked up the Pop Photo lens test on the Nikon 105/2.8 macro lens, and it scored exceptionally well. This particular lens was my favorite portrait lens when I shot 35mm film. It never failed to produce crisp, clear distortion free images, so my conclusion on this particular lens matches Pop Photos test results. Same conclusion with Nikons 50/1.4 lens. After purchasing my new D200 body (once I can find it) I'll need to purchase several lenses, and I need a basis to compare Nikon glass to the cheaper alternatives.

More specifically, I'd like to know if anyone has used the Sigma 20-40 f2.8 EX DG AF? It scored exceptionally high and costs a about 1/3rd the price of the Nikon version.
http://www.popphoto.com/assets/downl...2003113315.pdf

Also interested in info. about the Sigma 120-300 f2.8 EX APO IF HSM AF lens. According to Pop Photo, it also earned exceptionally high marks.
http://www.popphoto.com/assets/downl...2003163559.pdf

Also interested in a 20mm prime, such as the Sigma 20/1.8. Anyone?
http://www.popphoto.com/pdfs/2002/11...gmalensesf.pdf

xsquiggy,

In a word, "no" I disagree with some of the conclusions and opinions expressed at PopPhoto.

Do I disagree will all that they say? No, some I very much agree with.

Also look at PhotoDo and independant reviews when making your considerations. Buy from a reputable dealer with reasonable return privilages.

In particular, the article: "Digital Optical Options" does not match my experience.

http://www.popphoto.com/article.asp?...rticle_id=1711

Sorry, I don't have any direct experience with these lenses. I do have a Sigma 18-50mm, f2.8 that is excellent, and works perfectly, and an older Sigma long-zoom that is also excellent, but not compatible with digital cameras. They "can" make very good glass. They also seem to have some quality control issues.

Again, buy from a reputable dealer, with a reasonable return policy, and you should be OK. By all means, let us know your experience.

xlenny er, ah, ziggy53 (Gosh am I that old?)

Thanks for your reply. In the past I've always purchased Nikon glass, and more than likely will do the same once my D200 comes in. I put my name on the list at my local retailer today, and I'm #61 in line .

The guy said he had a D2X in stock and would sell it for $4500. Still too pricy for this bank account . One things for sure, my initial budget for a DSLR setup was $3 grand. After some research, I figure $6 grand is more inline with the body, glass, memory, and flash I want. Working on the wife as I type,,,,,,