how about Tokina 16-50 2.8, it doesnt have VC.. do u think VC is important ?? Nikon 17-55 is way out of my budget for now.. I am looking for something less than 1000 bucks, and for the tamron 17-50 AF problem, its a subjective problem.. not everyone has it..
If your budget is 1k, perhaps consider tamron 17-50 f/2.8, new one costs around 900, don't forget the filter perhaps another 50 bucks (depends which brand and shop you buy from). And do your homework before buying.
Ok so the two major contenders coming out are 18-200 nikkor VRII and Tamron/Sigma 17-50 ... Is it worth it to spend 300 extra bucks to get the VC version for tamron ? I don't think Sigma has a VC version ??:think: