Hi,
Dirt Cheap Cameras and DigiDirect have both posted prices in the low $1800 range for the new Sigma 70-200 OS. I rang them and was told a few weeks until stock arrives but will believe it when I see them on the shelves. CR Kennedy is still saying June for Canon and Nikon mount versions.
After owning 3 of the 4 L variants in this focal range, the 2.8 IS is the only one i now still have.
If you want to save money just get the f4 version, not worth the price hike for IS imo.
But as it now seems you're leanings towards the best version (albeit the Mk II). This will give you the versatility to do it all including action, portraits etc.
I'ld even upgrade mine to the Mk II version when prices drop from the ridiculous new premium.
Canon User
I've also decided on the f4 IS.
Just need to find a well priced one now. 2nd hand will be fine for these beauties..
Canon EOS 400D (aka. Rebel XTi / KISS Digital X)
EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 II (Kit lens)
EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 II (Kit lens)
EF 50mm f/1.8 II
Kenko extension tubes
Well, I'm not a Canon owner but if the Photozone tests on full frame and cropped sensor cameras are anything to go by ( I reckon they are ) the new version of the 2.8 is the ants pants. Get the credit card out boys and girls.
Jayde
Honest CC whether good or bad, is much appreciated.
Love and enjoy photography, but won't be giving up my day job.
Flickr
Well, I've just been on the hunt for a 2nd hand Canon 70-200L f2.8 IS lens. Couldn't find anyone wanting to give one up.
So I went and bought a brand new Sigma 2.8. It's not IS -cause I can't wait that long
However, one thing I noticed in all of these threads is people saying that the f4 is not as shallow as the 2.8. That maybe so, but you can still set your 2.8 @ f4
By purchasing the 2.8 you are giving yourself more options. And adding a IS into the mix, gives you even more.
And the weight is really not that much. The sigma I own is 1.5 kg and I can hand hold it for a quite a while - I rented a canon one which is the same weight and ran up and down a football ground sideline with it for the whole match. I left my monopod too near the sydney football team and they chucked it under their water table for the match! So I had no choice - and I was fine.
And I don't even have big muscles!
I think if you can, go for the 2.8 IS and if you can hold out for a couple of months - go for the Sigma - there is not much difference at all from the Canon - especially on the crop sensors.