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11/07/2005 08:56:25 PM · #1 |
What is the difference between this lens and this lens?.
Both are 55-500mm f/4-6.3 EX lenses.
According to those links, there is none. But, according the equipment list on this site, the DG has a HSM.
Eddi
P.S. I can get a new RF for about $200 cheaper than on that site which is why I'm asking.
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11/07/2005 09:29:16 PM · #2 |
Not sure if the HSM is specific to the DG version, but I know they are slightly different. The coatings are supposedly improved on the DG version, and there may be optical differences; the DDG has a reputation for being a hair sharper.
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11/07/2005 10:02:03 PM · #3 |
One is an older version. I have the older version. If memory serves me correctly, around a year ago, the newer version came out. Someone here has one or at least posted on it quite a while back. I recall that there was some improvements, however I do not recall exactly what they were.
Attached are some shots with the older version:

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11/07/2005 11:58:53 PM · #4 |
The DG version is identical to the other version except it has ridges vs. gernade type gripping surface on the zoom and focus rings along with a "Digital Glass"? which is a different coating used on the element(s) to reduce CA and ghosting according to Sigma. Other optical designs are identical. Supposedly makes a difference. I like my DG Bigma.
Sigma is currently updating all lenses to the DG versions (except the DC line). I'd recommend the DG version.
Message edited by author 2005-11-08 00:05:28.
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11/08/2005 09:17:47 AM · #5 |
Originally posted by yido: The DG version is identical to the other version except it has ridges vs. gernade type gripping surface on the zoom and focus rings along with a "Digital Glass"? which is a different coating used on the element(s) to reduce CA and ghosting according to Sigma. Other optical designs are identical. Supposedly makes a difference. I like my DG Bigma.
Sigma is currently updating all lenses to the DG versions (except the DC line). I'd recommend the DG version. |
Just got off the phone with Sigma. You are correct. Basically, they are the same lens.
There are 2 differences:
1. Cosmetics. You can see the differences in the pictures. Focus and zoom rings have grips on the RF version, while the DG are smoother.
2. Coating on the lenses of the DG are (as the support rep told me) SUPPOSED to reduce glare.
Now, let me ask. Do these 2 differences justify spending and extra $200 for the DG?
I'm looking at Flash's photos and....well....you can see them too.
P.S. The Minolta mount does not come with HSM in either version. :(
Message edited by author 2005-11-08 09:18:26.
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11/08/2005 09:36:46 AM · #6 |
Originally posted by MrEd: ... Now, let me ask. Do these 2 differences justify spending and extra $200 for the DG? |
If you are only planning on using the lens with a digital camera I'd say get what the maker designed to optimize that camera. It's an expensive lens to begin with so you'll probably keep it for a while. It's not like the DG version was costing twice as much. But it's your money, so spend it wisely.
And I'll add a belated Welcome to dpc. I like your foggy NO pics. Look forward to seeing some challenge entries from you.
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11/08/2005 10:09:11 AM · #7 |
Yes. My 7D is the only camera I'd be using it on (the only 1 I have other than my P&S). Maybe I will wait a bit and get the DG.
P.S. The NO pics were taken with my Revio 5MP. Mom came to visit so we drove down. Wasn't the prettiest day. Cloudy, drizzling, etc etc. But, all in all, it was ok. Mom loved it, all that matters.
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11/08/2005 10:24:55 AM · #8 |
Gee, with that lens I could shoot giraffes and lions without ever leaving home ... |
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11/08/2005 11:09:50 AM · #9 |
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11/08/2005 08:11:36 PM · #10 |
Originally posted by MrEd: Originally posted by yido: The DG version is identical to the other version except it has ridges vs. gernade type gripping surface on the zoom and focus rings along with a "Digital Glass"? which is a different coating used on the element(s) to reduce CA and ghosting according to Sigma. Other optical designs are identical. Supposedly makes a difference. I like my DG Bigma.
Sigma is currently updating all lenses to the DG versions (except the DC line). I'd recommend the DG version. |
Just got off the phone with Sigma. You are correct. Basically, they are the same lens.
There are 2 differences:
1. Cosmetics. You can see the differences in the pictures. Focus and zoom rings have grips on the RF version, while the DG are smoother.
2. Coating on the lenses of the DG are (as the support rep told me) SUPPOSED to reduce glare.
Now, let me ask. Do these 2 differences justify spending and extra $200 for the DG?
I'm looking at Flash's photos and....well....you can see them too.
P.S. The Minolta mount does not come with HSM in either version. :( |
WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT???
How dare you doubt my knowledge!!! :) ha ha ha.
I don't know if there was a problem with the non DG Bigmas and flare/glare/ghosting/CA. I've never heard of that problem with any Bigma/body combo, but I'm not following the KM forums either.
Checking Sigma4less, it's $20 cheaper for non DG, so I'm not sure where the $200 comes from. If the non DG gave me bad glare/CA, yes, if not? no. I'd check the KM forum on dpreview and see. If there is no such problem with KM's and the old Bigma, it seems like a good deal.
Message edited by author 2005-11-08 20:12:53.
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11/08/2005 09:01:55 PM · #11 |
Originally posted by yido: Checking Sigma4less, it's $20 cheaper for non DG, so I'm not sure where the $200 comes from. If the non DG gave me bad glare/CA, yes, if not? no. I'd check the KM forum on dpreview and see. If there is no such problem with KM's and the old Bigma, it seems like a good deal. |
I...um....found a place for about $735 (new...incl shipping) ;) I emailed him to double check. Even threw in a teaser question asking does it have HSM (after calling Sigma, who told me it doesn't)?
P.S. Even though I hinted I may wait and get the DG, I am seriously considering the RF after seeing Flash's photos. We'll see.
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11/09/2005 10:24:04 AM · #12 |
Originally posted by MrEd: P.S. Even though I hinted I may wait and get the DG, I am seriously considering the RF after seeing Flash's photos. We'll see. |
Thank you for the comments on the photos. Mine is the RF version, however it has a HSM designation on the body. I am not clear on what that exactly means. I just know that for my limited budget, it has served me well.

Message edited by author 2005-11-09 10:25:06.
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11/09/2005 04:05:09 PM · #13 |
$735 sounds awfully low for a new Bigma, even if it's not DG.
Make sure it's a reputable place, not like express photo or broadway photo.
Good luck
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11/09/2005 04:34:07 PM · #14 |
I think DG lenses have a nice red ring round top of lens. Seriously, the DG are slightly better glass and sharper.
Steve
Although the DG Bigma doesn't appear to have it??
Message edited by author 2005-11-09 16:35:06. |
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