Zoom Lens Special: Speed Is In

WHY LOOK: One of the widest available, this digital-only, pro-quality, high-speed zoom scales up to (approximately) a 16.5–24mm full-frame equivalent on most DSLRs. It offers several handling perks: a simple-to-use AF/MF push/pull switch, near-silent autofocus, and very well-damped AF and MF rings.

CERTIFIED TEST RESULTS (November 2008): Our SQF tests found sharpness and contrast in the low- to mid-Excellent range, but distortion control proved truly remarkable. At 16mm, it produced only Imperceptible barrel distortion (0.06%)—amazing for so wide a lens. At 11mm and 14mm, barrel distortion rose into the (still remarkable) Slight and lower Visible ranges. L ight falloff left the edges by f/3.5 at most apertures, more evidence of a superstar.

STREET PRICE: $600.