I had the same experience with Sony with my 75-300mm Maxxum lens. They sent me the full price I paid for the lens. I will not buy another one. I feel this was a failure of policy on Sony's side. I like Sony, but I am very disappointed of the way they are supporting the Maxxum equipment.

For me it's time to re-evaluate digital photography against video photography and maybe invest in the latest new video format, the AVCHD (Advance Video Coding High Definition), a joint venture by Panasonic and Sony. Photoshop Elements 5.0 and Premiere Elements 3.0 support this new HD video format. It will also allow me to shoot still pictures.

For now I will just use my 5D with my kit lens and my 50mm f1.7 lens.