So I thought to buy a Nikkor 17-55/2.8, which I tested with extremely fine results; but considering the cost and the fact that I normally need much more frequently the 24-70 range, I decided to save money and to buy instead the stabilized version of the Tamron 17-50, the 17-50/2.8VC (450€).
I was immediately really impressed by the image quality of this lens, especially wide open, and I have made some initial tests in low light situations.
I would like to share a couple of shots with you:
My wife Milena on the couch at night, D90 Tamron 17-50/2.8 @ 50mm wide open 1/60sec. ISO 3200
My wife Milena at the window in a cloudy afternoon D90 Tamron 17-50/2.8 @ 50mm wide open 1/40sec. ISO 1600
If you are interested, I will send more samples with this interesting lens; from my part I can say that I'm really surprised by the image quality it delivers; I made some comparison shots between the Nikkor 24-70/2.8 and the Tamron in very low light situations. My first "quick" results are that at slow shutter speeds (i.e from 1/10sec. to 1/100sec.) the Tamron is sharper, due in my opinion to the very effective VC stabilizer.
If you think that a deeper comparison could be usefull, let me know, I try to do my best in order to post further results.
Cheers
Elio