Lens recommendations please

[AndyBorzi]

I'm umming and arring over what to spend some money on!! Options are: New PC, New camera (30D or 20D) or new lens! Don't think I can justify spending 800-900 on new camera or PC though.

I have a 300D and I want to upgrade from the kit lens for general purpose use. I have come across these lenses in my initial research which will suit my style of photography:

Canon 50mm f1.8 - is a given!!

Sigma 18-50 F2.8 - approx £300
Canon 17-85 IS F4.5-5.6 - approx £400
Canon 17-40 F4L - approx £530

I know SDK recommends the 17-40L but does anyone have any experience of these other lenses? Or can anyone recommend another similar?

Also what web sites do good reviews/tests of lenses?

Cheers

AB

 

[AndyBorzi]

Just seen another which got a fairly decent write up on PhotoZone: Sigma 17-70 F2.8-4 - tis only around £240 as well.

Does anyone have any experience with the Sigma 18-50F2.8 or the 17-70

I like the idea of the 17-70 reach though