The 17-85 IS, despite it's higher price, isn't all that good a lens. The sigma 17-70 f2.8-4.5 is reported to be as good if not better optically, at under half the price of the 17-85, but doesn't have IS. If IS isn't a consideration you would be better to but the 17-70 and spend the difference on a 50mm f1.8 lens ($100-150 depending on wher you buy), they are a very good lens for the money and on a 2/3 format DSLR they make a nice fast protrait lens as well.
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