How good are Sigma and Quantaray zoom lenses for 35mm SLRs?

Question

I don't need top quality, but I do want a crisp clear photo with no strange artifacts.

Answer 1

Lately, Sigma has been getting good reviews with their current lenses. Quantaray hasn't got there yet, I would myself stay away from it. If you are not doing expensive professional work, it would be fine for its price.

Here's a site on a review for it:

http://www.topicpoint.com/sigma_18-50mm/

Answer 2

While they will produce crisp, clear photos with no artifacts, remember a couple of things.

* it is the 12 inches behind the camera the makes the shot, technically and creatively

* it is the lenses you buy that are your real investment and should be expected to last for at least four decades ... DLSR's are evolving every 18 to 24 months, so have to be replaced from time to time because their technology becomes outdated, not because the start failing to do what they were designed to do.

* third-party lenses do not have all the hardware and firmware in them that the OEM lenses do ... 3rd  party lens designers are not privy to the secret advanced features that are built into say Nikon or Canon lenses for future DLSR offerings.