For average reviews from users, you can try this site:
http://www.fredmiranda.com/reviews/index.php
It has all the lenses that you mentioned here.

For sample pictures, try this site:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=141406
This one is kind of like the semi-official-Canon forum.

From what I have read, the Canon 17-55 f/2.8 IS is "almost" the best lens for crop body.  This comment is from ppl who have used Canon 24-70 f/2.8L, Canon 24-105 f/4L IS and other third party lenses.  Look into their comments than you will see why.  It is kind of pricey but it produces L-like Image quality.  Also, Canon 70-200 f/4 IS is a little bit sharper than 2.8 IS and even 2.8. with best 4-stop IS system from Canon.

For walk around lens, Tamron 17-50 is also a very good and well accepted thrid party lens.  For wide angle, ppl frequently bring up Canon 10-22 and Sigma 10-20.  I got the Sigma because it is a little bit cheaper.  But if you can affort it, get the Canon.

[ 本帖最後由 usnameless 於 2008-3-5 15:39 編輯 ]

引用:

原帖由 Simone 於 3/6/2008 12:09 AM 發表


Personally I would recommend you to get a 40D (It has a much better body then 450D) +  Canon 24-70mm 2.8 L...in considering your quoted budget.  

You will have better advantage to take shots ...

Hi,

How much is the going price for 40D in HK?  The MSRP for 450D is about USD$899 and the selling price for 40D is about USD$1200, so the diff is about $300.  I bought the 40D a month ago, and I think it is a nice body for the price.  The Canon XXXD series has noticiablely more noise above ISO400, and the new 12mp may make it worse.  If you are going after picture quality, I am pretty sure the 30D will beat the 450D, and they are about the same price????  Will see.