Whoa, this thread is still alive.
@Chaos: I don't plan to use the 18-70 kit lens at all. The 17-50 cleanly replaces that lens easily, the 20mm lost at the tele-end is not a big deal for the sheer versatility of an usable f2.8 and tack-sharp f4+.

Will post pics by 2mro night for sure, this lens is bleeding sharp!
@Yogesh, Anish: I know, I know...am killing the very idea of having a "dSLR system".

But as I keep repeating am not the kind of guy who has the time and patience to take around multiple lens systems. The 18-250 SAL (an optimized Tamron 18-250), is actually rated better than the highly famed 18-200 VR. The distortion at 18mm is present as is softness at 250mm...but seriously, it's hardly a compromise when the sheer versatility of an all-in-one daylight lens is taken into account.
Anish, am not too sure of the 50mm prime.

Though the Sony 50 f1.4 is a really good lens (look at the test shots!), and the Sigma 30 f1.4 is a great "50mm FOV" aping lens...right now, I miss the 150+ telephoto the most.
@bikey:

Thanks!
Pics to follow tonight!
Payne