If you are not those sooooooooo critical with distortion
Nikkor 24-85mm f/2.8-4 AF-D is a good walk around lens
Example taken using D3 at ISO3200, f/4
On D700 and D3, you can easily bum up to ISO3200 and get very good quality
without flash and freeze the indoor event.
With macro capability, this is what you can get
Haven't both macro which can focus at 2cm, I find this lens quite versatile
given it can give u a range of 24-85
Okay... it doesn't have VR, so you better keep your shutter speed fast.
Day time ? No problem, night time, bum up your ISO and do NR using your
CaptureNX. If your target audience is on the net, basically resampling will
keep the noise down.
On D700 and D3, I find the noise generated are just pleasing instead of annoying.
So any ISO between ISO3200 and 6400 are fine, at ISO1600, it's just good to go
for prints.
If you are those photographers frequently covering indoor events, since you are
earning from the equipment, make sure you own the Nikkor 24-70 f/2.8
No excuse and no regret getting it. It's heavy and large, so unless u like weight lifting,
then I seriously advice u don't use it for your daily going around lens.
Besides... the lens is just way too attractive and attract alot of audience.
I personally find when you are taking photos, it's best if you and your camera is
invisible. It's BEST if no one notice there is a photographer and nikon camera in the scene
so that they are at their best composure and feel natural. Once you have a bulky
flash plus such a big and attractive lens roaming aroung, the magic are all gone.