Need lens recommendations

[minicoop1985]

OK, here's the deal. I want to get my wife a better lens for all around use for her birthday. She has an Alpha a230, and the 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 kit lens just can't seem to produce a perfectly sharp focus to save its soul, even on a tripod using the timer to avoid any wiggle with a stationary subject.. The viewfinder doesn't help much with manual focusing either. So what I'm looking for is something that will help produce a sharper focus. Do you guys have any recommendations on fairly inexpensive (I know, my wallet is already crying) Minolta AF or Sony branded lenses good for all around, general, non specific use? Thanks, everyone. I appreciate the help.

 

[DiskoJoe]

Tamron 17-50 f2.8. This is a good lens and on the fairly cheap side, around $280 new.

 

[minicoop1985]

Thanks. Gonna keep my eyes open for a good deal on a used one on eBay for her. I was dumb enough to give her my login info, so I may have to change my password...

 

[Stevepwns]

I have a 16-50, its a good recommendation IMO.

 

[minicoop1985]

Ok, this is what I'll be setting my sights for then. Perfect. Thanks