What are the caveats when choosing a teleconverter brand that is of a different brand than the lens it will be attached to in attempt to maximize image quality?
Lets assume the following to make the domain of this question more palatable:
- The TC will fit the lens
- The lens has a modern AF motor (AF-S, USM, HSM, etc.)
- The lens is fast enough such that the TC will not prevent AF
The fact that modern lenses contain embedded computers which communicate to the camera body is giving me pause. On the face of it, it would seem logical that matching brands between the TC & lens would give the highest level of compatibility and functionality. However, not all brands are created equal when it comes to image quality and so one might be forgoing IQ in favor of functionality. The question is how large is that tradeoff?
The basis for this question is my current quandary of deciding if I should go with a Kenko, Nikon or Sigma TC for my Sigma 50-150mm lens on my Nikon D7000. Image quality, value and compatibility are the three variables that I see in play. Compatibility is my #1 priority and assuming they are all compatible (are they?) then I would be willing to pay 15-20% more for improved IQ.