Review 5 of 5
Summary: The Tamron 1.4x TC + 300/4 produced a 420/5.6 with better optical performance than the Tokina 400/5.6 AT-X AF. However, AF was tediously slow. When used with a zoom, even one considered to be good like the 80-200/2.8D, I found that image quality deteriorated.
I think two factors play big roles in whether or not you are happy with a TC. The first is the lens you match it to. The second is technique. Throw this thing on a cheap and slow 100-300mm zoom and shoot hand-held, and you won't be happy. Use the same combo on a tripod, and you may be more-pleased with the results. I used it a fair amount with a tripod-mounted 100mm macro lens, to increase my working distance just a bit, and it delivered blisteringly sharp images edge-to-edge. I never got results I liked with this TC plus a zoom (even on a tripod) - images always looked soft. So, try it with the lens you're going to use it with most, and realize that it may give better or worse results with different lenses. Strengths: Inexpensive.
Flush front element means it fits just about any lens.
Good performance (see "The Bottom Line" for details.
Nikon D compatible.
Weaknesses: Slowed down the autofocus speed on my 80-200/2.8D and 300/4. (Keep in mind that these lenses are not known for focusing speed, so take this with a grain of salt.) Similar Products Used: I once owned a suspiciously similar Promaster 1.7x AF TC - it matched the Tamron's magnification, but was even slower to AF. In 1.4x:
Nikon TC-14b - superb, but manual-focus only and pricey. Fits only telephotos.
Sigma APO 1.4x EX - excellent, supports AF and AF-S (albeit still rather slow on the above lenses), fits only telephotos. Customer Service: Not needed.
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