Need advise on which lens to buy for my Sony a330

[vdubois]

I used to have a Minolta Maxxum 3xi with a sigma 20-200mm 3.8-5.6 which was ok. I stopped using it when I went for a digital camera, Cannon S2IS, a few years ago. I was not satisfied with the S2IS (going from a reflex), so I finally bought a Sony a330 since my lens would fit it. Unfortunately, this lens is scrap: there is a white-ish cloud in all pictures. Apparently the glue in the lenses caused it and Sigma cannot repair it since theydo not have the parts anymore. So, I now have my a330 with the 18mm-55mm it came with. I'd like to get better reach, especially that I am planning a trip to Peru and will want to take pictures of monkeys, birds, etc. So I started looking at what is available and saw the Sony 75-300 at about 225$, which seems to have decent reviews and could complement well my 18-55. Searching for used lenses, I stumbled upon the AF70-210/4 Beercan that seems to have fantastic reviews. I could probably get it around 200-225$ (so similar to the 75-300). My dilemna is the following: for the same price I can get a better lens, used, but with less reach + it is bigger / bulkier. Which one should I get? Remember that I am an amateur and I am not sure how much I would see the difference in a quality lens like the beercan and the Sony SAL 75300, which seems to be better than my old Sigma from what I read. Should I go for smaller and more reach but less quality or get the beercan?

Thanks

[OsmosisStudios]

Honestly: get the 70-210 f/4. It's a constant aperture and even I'VE heard good things about it (and I shoot Nikon). Provided it's in good condition, jump on it!

Of course, some till recommend a tamron, but I'd recommend the one you've found.

[OsmosisStudios]

Honestly: get the 70-210 f/4. It's a constant aperture and even I'VE heard good things about it (and I shoot Nikon). Provided it's in good condition, jump on it!

Of course, some till recommend a tamron, but I'd recommend the one you've found.

[alpha900]

I have both for many years, used on a Maxum 5D, then an Alpha700 and now the A900, both good lenses, the beercan real heavy, (good for a steady shot) super sharp, and much better colour, would be my preference if that's all the cash you want to spend.

[vdubois]

Thanks guys...I guess I'll go with the 70-210 f/4 beercan, which seemed to have better reviews anyways. Again my interrogation was if the extra lens quality + the f/4 was worth the extra weight and lower range. I guess it is...I should see it for myself soon.