Q about Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED-IF AF-S VR

[cocco]

Hi All,

Got a new Nikon 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED-IF AF-S VR and when VR is on at slow shutter speeds (>1 sec) the lens makes a loud clicking noise a bit after the shutter closes, and the view through the viewfinder jolts a bit.

Is this normal? I'm guessing that it's the mirror moving back into place after stabilizing for the exposure, but want to be sure that it's normal before it's too late to take back.

Many thanks,
Cocco

[dakwegmo]

How loud? My 18-200 only makes the slightest of noise when engaging the VR. If it's loud enough to mistake for the mirror slap, then I'd take it back.

[dcclark]

I agree -- how loud? The slight jumping in the viewfinder happens for me occasionally (it's not the mirror -- that doesn't move with regards to VR -- but I think it's one of the VR lens elements coming un-stuck, effectively). It's very unusual though, and no loud clicking.

[cocco]

Ya, it's a bit louder than the sound of a shutter. Going to play with it a bit more and decide. Thanks for the comments. ~C

[SusanGRichardson]

Would you recommend an 18-200 as a good universal lense? I'm very interested in purchasing one but I have a budget around $500. Any suggestions on the manufacturer (with regards to quality vs. price)? I have looked at both the Nikon and Tamron, but there are a couple of versions out there. Any feedback would be appreciated! I shoot a D60.

[cocco]

I'm partial to faster lenses, but will be traveling with my partner who only has so much patience for my stopping and switching lenses, and &c, so I'm using the Nikon as a general lens, with a fixed 50mm 1.4 as backup. The optics are quite good and clear, which I can't say for the tamron. I'd look into a good used Nikon over a tamron. With the VRII out, you might be able to find a deal.

[TFord.LTTP]

Originally Posted by Susan G. Richardson

Would you recommend an 18-200 as a good universal lense? I'm very interested in purchasing one but I have a budget around $500. Any suggestions on the manufacturer (with regards to quality vs. price)? I have looked at both the Nikon and Tamron, but there are a couple of versions out there. Any feedback would be appreciated! I shoot a D60.

I have the Tamron 18-250 and I've been fairly happy with it. A walk around lens like that, even the actual Nikon 18-200, is going to have a little more distortion at both ends then equal quality lens with a smaller range but for most stuff it won't be too bad. With the Tamron the depth of focus is very shallow in most circumstances so have to learn to work around that but otherwise happy with the pictures.

Check your local BestBuy and wherever else might sell the 18-200 Nikon lens though, they've been clearencing them out lately for around $650 which is really phenomal.

[dcclark]

I highly recommend the Nikon 18-200 -- the newer version is essentially identical to the older one, but has a focus-creep lock (which I don't find the need for). In general, among 18-200 (or 18-250) lenses, I've found the Nikon to have the least distortion, and the highest quality. My impression of the 18-250 was that it was very dim, had poor construction, and hunted for focus a lot.