Replacement For 18-55 Kit Lens for T2I, Confirming Sigma 17-70 Is Good Choice

[knwnasrob]

So I decided to go for the Sigma17-70 and will be ordering it soon.
Amazon.com: Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM Lens for Nikon Mount Digital SLR Cameras: Camera & Photo

I would just like to confirm that the Sigma 17-70 is a good choice.
I know it is not a L-Class lens but I just wanted confirmation that every aspect of this lens is better then the Kit Lens 18-55mm in EVERYTHING.
Distortion, Image Quality, Vignetting, The works!

Thanks!

 

[knwnasrob]

If you guys know other lenses less then 750$ that are a big upgrade all around I'm glad to hear it!

 

[ScubaDude]

With a $750 budget, I would go with the Canon EF-S 15-85mm f/3.5-5.6. Can be had online (from Amazon or reputable dealer) for $730 or so. Gets great reviews.

 

[Chann]

I have owned this Sigma lens for two years. It has a decent macro ratio of 1:2.7. Mine does not have stabilization but the newest model does along with HSM focusing. These are nice upgrades for the price.

It has good bokeh with narrow depth of field. It feels well constructed and has held up great. It is on my camera nearly all of the time.

When in manual focus mode, there is not much resistance to the focusing ring. Do me, I would prefer more resistance for fine focusing.

Chann