theredbaron

I need some lens advice. Despite my love for prime lenses, I have decided it's time for me to get a zoom.

The first one I looked at is The Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS. It's a fine lens. Nice range, superb quality, and FOR SOME REASON it has image stabilization. Three stops!

Thing is, for about $130 more I could just get the L series Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8. I had an amazing experience with the last L series I bought (the 35 f/1.4 I use as my walk-around lens now). They are absolutely amazing quality. However, the 17-55mm I mentioned above is supposed to have near-L series quality. And If i go the L-route, I lose the image stabilization, but gain weather proofing.

Here is what it comes down to:
I've never owned a wide-angle lens. Do any of you have information on how useful the range from 17-24 is? Is it great to be able to go that wide? Or do you find it rarely useful.
Has anyone used a lens with image stabilization? Does it work as well as people would have me believe?

Alternately, do any of you happen to have experience with either of these lenses?

All advice is appreciated.


*edit*
It also seems that the L-series lens can manage macro shots. Cool!