I've got the Sigma 14mm rectilinear lens, 180 F2.8 macro, and 400 F5.6 APO
lenses. All three are well made and sharp. Of course, like all Sigma's made
in the last 10 years, they focus in the wrong direction. Sigma lenses have
developed a bad reputation, especially with autofocus camera users. There
seems to be constant issues with lens/camera body compatibility with Sigma
offering free upgrades for lenses that won't work with the newest camera
bodies. Not an issue with us OM users! Sigma did make some lenses that were
never available from Olympus. Lenses like the above and the 500 F4.5, 800
F5.6, and 1000 f8.0 were all modern designs with internal focus and
(supposedly) good glass. Another good thing about Sigma lenses is that
people's low regard for them has suppressed their resale value. I purchased
the 180 macro and the 400 for US$370. When new, B&H sold the 180 for $700.00.
One other thing. Sigma's first version of the 70-210 F2.8 was tested by
Popular Photography with incredible results. It bested or equaled Nikons,
Canon, Tokina, and Tamron's equivalent lenses at every focal length and
aperture. Don't fry me over this! I'm just repeating the test results.
Gary Faulkenberry
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