0
\$\begingroup\$

I'm struggling to figure out whether there's a teleconverter (available in the UK now) that will go between a Sony Alpha A77 and a Tamron lens. There seems to be some recommendations I could find, but either the product doesn't seem available anymore, or it's quite restricted; e.g. you're running on manual for AF (which isn't the end of the world if that's all I can get).

Any ideas?

Improve this question
\$\endgroup\$
3
  • 1
    \$\begingroup\$ Wouldn't a Sony Alpha-mount teleconverter work? Put the TC between the camera and adapter for the Tamron? \$\endgroup\$
    – Håkon K. Olafsen
    Commented Dec 12, 2013 at 11:21
  • \$\begingroup\$ Sony's own teleconverters are quite pricey, but surely they will do the job. Sigma makes teleconverters with Sony mount too. I don't really see the problem here. \$\endgroup\$
    – Esa Paulasto
    Commented Dec 12, 2013 at 12:21
  • \$\begingroup\$ You could try the Sigma 1.4x or 2x converters, as a cheaper alternative to Sony's, but please be aware that there are limitations to these, not being compatible for AF on many lenses...! \$\endgroup\$
    – Jack
    Commented Mar 2, 2014 at 13:37

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
1
\$\begingroup\$

The Sony TCs are designed specifically for Sony G lenses and CANNOT be used with other lenses without risk of damaging both the lens and the TC - this is due to the extremely tight tolerance (about a mm gap) between the lens' rear glass and the TC's front glass.

Likewise the new Sigma APO TCs are specifically tailored for a limited set of lenses such as the two Sigma 70-200 f/2.8 lenses. It is possible that they could work with the old or new Tamron 70-200 but I would take yours to a shop and examine them very closely, with the Tamron at each end of the zoom range, before shelling out. Tamron's own SP TCs (identical to Kenko's pro series TCs) get a wide variety of opinions, ranging from excellent to junk.

I use one of the Tamron 1.4x TCs on my Sony 100mm f/2.8 macro (making it a 140mm f/4) with fairly good results - rarely has to hunt for focus much more than the lens on its own. It does exacerbate the corner chromatic aberrations of the lens a bit, but shooting at f/8 (i.e. f/11 with the 1.4x) eliminates almost all of this.

Note that many older Tamron/Kenko 1.4x TCs and 2x TCs will not AF with digital cameras. If it has 8 contacts it should be fine. If it has 5 then steer clear.

Improve this answer
\$\endgroup\$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.