The Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 USM IS may not be a flawless lens
but it keeps up with the Canon users very high expectations.
The resolution numbers are rated right up there with the
absolute best for being an APS-C normal zoom lens. The
resolution in the center is generally right on even mounted
on the Canon 50D while the borders stay an exceptional
quality level. [redo for g index]
The deformation traits are quite normal for a zoom in this reach (somewhat prominent barrel deformation @ 17mm, restrained pincushion deformation @ 55mm) although lateral CAs are untypically restrained. Vignetting although unfortunate is a problem at f/2.8 and the bokeh quality (portrayal of the out-of-focus blur) is lacking in significance when in in critical circumstances. The len's build quality darn good but there's too much plastic for its price tag. Even the much less expensive EF 70-200mm f/4 USM L sports a magnesium-alloy outer shell. All told the 17-55 is obviously a step up from other standard Canon zoom lenses although a pricey one.
Feb 15, 2011
Features
Canon EF-S 17-55mm
f/2.8 IS USM
Canon's Best
AD and aspherical elements deliver impressive image quality through entire
zoom range,
Image Stabilizer lens groups shift to compensate for image shake even in dim lighting
Large circular aperture produces shallow
depth of field; ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM)
Measures 3.3 inches in diameter and 4.4 inches long; weighs 22.8 ounces.
The Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS USM Lens is a
large-aperture lens specifically designed for EF-S type digital SLR cameras, and that offers a super wide angle to short telephoto zoom range, with built-in Image Stabilization. The focal length is equivalent to approx. 27-88mm in 35mm format.
This lens features Canon's latest optical Image Stabilizer technology, providing up to 3-stop compensation for image blur caused by camera shake and slow shutter speeds. This ensures clear, crisp images, even in dim light.
Designed specifically for digital photography, the lens has specially shaped lens elements and Super Spectra coatings to suppress ghosting and flare, which can be caused by reflections off digital camera sensors.
Note: Only Canon Extension Tube EF 25 II and 12 II fit on this lens.
Note! Not suitable for 35mm film SLR cameras or digital camera with image sensor bigger than
APS-C size, only fits on the EOS Digital Rebel series or
50D,
40D, 30D and 20D SLR cameras.
• Uses optics designed to take full advantage of the small image circle and short back focus in EF-S lenses
• Features three aspherical lens elements (two types) as well as a Super-UD glass element for high image quality at all focal lengths
• Optimized lens coating minimizing flare and ghosting prone occurring with digital cameras
• Ring-type USM provides ultra-quite, super-fast, precision auto focusing and predictive tracking
• Inner Focusing and new AF algorithms, with full-time mechanical manual focusing
• Circular aperture diaphragm produces brilliant out-of-focus characteristics
Lens Includes
• 77mm Snap-On Lens Cap
• Lens Dust Cap E (Rear)
• 1-Year Warranty