Need to make a decision on lens pairing with a D90

[anonmouseuser]

Howdy folks,

I need to make a decision on paring a Nikon D90 with either:

Option 1: D90 + Sigma 17-70

http://www.amazon.com/Sigma-17-70mm-...=37SCX0ANSC3J8

Total cost = $788 + $449 = $1,237

Option 2: D90 + Nikon 18-200 VRII

http://www.amazon.com/Nikon-VR-II-Te...1348553&sr=8-1

Total cost = $1,459 (after $250 instant rebate)

What I am struggling with is if the lens in Option 1 above will allow me to cover *most* situations. I understand that the advantage of the 18-200 is the insane zoom capabilities but am not sure if I can justify the extra $222. Though, if I ever changed my mind about buying a zoom lens, I would be spending an incremental $500 at the least.

Any suggestions would be helpful!

Thanks.

Edit: Another option is the $1,119 D90 + 70-300 bundle from Walmart:

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=10779153&sourceid=09982000672189533331

 

[ProfJohn]

Ummm why pay $450 for that Sigma lens when it isn't even 2.8 through its entire range??

At that price you could buy a used true 2.8 and probably end up with better pictures.

 

[soydios]

body: D90
wide zoom: Nikon 16-85mm VR DX or Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 DX OS
telephoto zoom: Nikon 70-300mm VR

 

[OulOat]

soydios mentioned some good lens. They produce better quality images than the lens you mention. However, and this is a biggie, you lose the ability to shoot almost anything with a single lens. The 18-200 allows you to grab the camera and go. No need to bring another lens. No need to switch out the lens. No $50 sensor cleanings. The 18-200 has good, not great, image quality. You have to determine for yourself what appeals to you more: image quality or flexibility and convience.

 

[DaWhim]

i would jump onto the option 2 in a heartbeat! the joy of not having to swap lens. add a prime lens for great images.

 

[anonmouseuser]

Thanks, guys. I went with Option 2. I also applied my employee discount to get the body+lens for $1,338.