dj dunzie wrote:
Well, I won't argue with you, because I know you know of what you speak...
However let me rephrase then... MY copy of the 70-200VR was noticeably quicker for AF response than my 80-200 AF-S was. Maybe I had a weaker 80-200, although my friend with an 80-200 AF-S always comments that he feels my 70-200VR was snappier, to the point where he was tempted to find a 70-200VR instead. Have you tried using the 70-200VR with VR off in comparison to the 80-200?
To the OP... there are excellent reviews of the 70-200VR and 80-200 AF-S on www.bythom.com, www.naturfotograf.com, and www.photozone.de. Might be worth reading...
Hey DJ. If I could find the snappier focusing 70-200AFS VR I'd take it in a heart beat--lucky you and your friend. I remember that lens was smaller and seemed lighter. Was that me or is it a lighter smaller lens? Basketball starts in less than a month and I'll cross path with my friend who has the 70-200--I'll have to give it another try.