Sony DT 16-50mm F2.8 SSM A-mount lens review by scovell001

scovell001#9576 date: Nov-11-2011
sharpness: 4 color: 4 build: 4 distortion: 4 flare control: 4 overall: 4	tested on: film camera: APS-C: 6MP; 10MP; 12MP; 14MP; 16MP; 20MP; 24MP full frame: 12MP; 24MP; 36MP; 42MP; 61MP
ownership:	I own this lens
compared to:	CZ 16-80 Sigma 17.50 f2.8
price paid:	670GBP
positive:	Sharp at f.28, really sharp at f3.2 onwards SSm fast & silent
negative:	none
comment:	I've been waiting a 'long time' for this lens (or its equivalent) to come out. For professional use on APS C there isn't a better lens available. Used on the A700, the SSM is quick & silent. The range is 24-75, a perfect equivalent to a 24-70 on FF. Mild distortion at 16mm, but in no way bothersome. Slight blue fringing detected at f2.8, which is nearly gone by f3.2. Also vignetting at f2.8 is reasonably strong, however, if your a portrait photographer, you actually 'want' vignetting at these apertures. What I've found really exciting was the colour & the overall exposure. This lens has immediately transformed my A700. I would go so far as to say that this is the no 1 lens for your APS-C Sony. Certainly if you're serious about your photography.