it appears that i need a superwide for concerts and recitals. i was thinking i did not need one but with the access i can get i should have one. the 20mm f2.8D is $200 more than the 24mm f2.8D, but cost is not an issue. i am still planning on getting a 35mm f2D before November and i dont need the 20mm or 24mm before then either. i will be using them on a D700. what are the pro's/con's of both lenses?

Never used the 24 but have the same 20 you mention. Very nice, like it a lot!! You might want to check it out before you buy, I have shot it right into the sun a few times with more ghosting that I would think. Although I hike around a lot, so I keep a UV on the front. Would probably be noticeably better without. You will probably be pointing it into a lot of stage lights at 20mm.

i think i will try and use it before the show starts for the pre-show shots so i can avoid the ghosting some. i dont have a convenient way of checking it out first. i might be able to go to Nashville (100 miles away) and see if i can borrow one for a day to see how i like it.

Don't know which other lenses you have, but I would have gone for the 17-35/2.8 or looked for a faster prime lens. A little heavy, but excellent glass, and a few available second hand.
And don't forget the new 24/1.4..

Or the old 24 2.8 AIS manual focus.

cant spend 1800$ on a lens or i would try and get the 17-35 2.8. my budget is around 600$ or less. my other lenses are 50mm 1.4D, 85mm 1.8D, 80-200mm 2.8D. does someone make a faster prime at that focal length? maybe i can find a used one.

Warren,

I think Jon's suggestion is good. You won't find better lens quality than Nikon AIS 20/24/28 prime for your D700 - if you manage to get one in good condition. Whatever 20/24 focal you finally choose the AF is not very useful so it could be a good bargain (though they remain expensive on the used market).

Huh?? How so?? What do you mean by no useful?

I think jacques means that with a 20mm on full frame almost everything is in focus anyway no matter which aperture you chose. So autofocus is a bit overrated feature on a wide angle lens.

just ordered the 20mm f2.8D autofocus lens. i should have it friday. thank you all for your suggestions and help. i have read only good things about the 20mm and i am selling a lens i am not using anymore so it am not really out any money once i get paid for the lens.