I went with the non VC. I got it for 450 from BH. I saw it for 399 at some other places but I wanted to make sure I could return it if it was a bad copy.
Got it today! WOW! Great lens. Very sharp. I got a "made in Japan" copy too so I think it's a good one. I took some pictures just messing with it and the 430EX flash:
Looks pretty good lighting wise! My only real complaint is I think the background is less than flattering (the store and other cars on the right being particularly distracting).
We have a lot of bridges in this city, but by far the coolest looking one is St. Johns Bridge. It's got a really cool Gothic design. I went and shot some pics yesterday. Let me know what you guys...