LAS VEGAS — Sigma unveiled at International CES two new Global Vision-series lenses, including the improved and redesigned 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM lenses.
The 18-200mm is listed on retail sites for pre-order at $399. Pricing on the 50mm F1.4 Art lens will be announced later.
“These two lenses are among our most popular, and we’re pleased to reintroduce these products by adding them to our Global Vision lineup,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, Sigma of America president. “The 18- 200mm, in particular, is an exciting new lens as it now has macro functionality, updated optics and a Global Vision design, making it a fantastic alternative to the kit lens. As has been the case with our recent Global Vision lenses, we expect an array of photographers to gravitate to their technically advanced features and slick new look.”
The 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary lens was designed specifically for APS-C DSLRs, and is the successor to the 18-200mm F3.5- 6.3 II DC OS HSM, that launched in 2011.
A smaller and lighter lens (15.2 ounces and 2.8 inches by 3.4 inches compared with 17.3 ounces and 3 by 3.5 inches), it offers macro capabilities with a minimum focusing distance of 15.4 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3. The new lens’ minimum working distance is 14.7 inches, which makes it suitable for close-up shooting with natural light.
Sigma said the 18-200mm F3.5- 6.3 Macro now adds Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements that have a high refractive index and can correct chromatic aberration at the telephoto-end.
Meanwhile, Sigma said its new 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art lens has been reengineered and redesigned as a new standard of performance in the Art line. It is said to be a pro level full-frame lens suitable for portraits, landscapes, studio work and still life.
It has been updated to include SLD glass and optimized for rich peripheral brightness with improved large aperture performance by positioning wide elements into the front groups.
Other updates include an optimized autofocus algorithm for smoother focusing and a floating focusing system to reduce lens movement while focusing.
Under the Global Vision line, it features a new matte finish, improved AF on/off switch and guarantees every lens is tested with Sigma’s proprietary modulation transfer function (MTF) “A1” measuring system before being shipped. Now with 13 elements in eight groups compared to the previous eight elements in six groups, it also has improved close focusing at 15.7 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:5.6
Both lenses incorporate the company’s Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) system for quiet, high-speed auto focus; and Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting.
The 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM lenses are also compatible with Sigma’s USB dock and supported by the company’s Mount Conversion Service.
