Las Vegas, NV—Sigma Corporation of America launched two new Global Vision lenses—the improved and redesigned 18–200mm f/3.5–6.3 DC Macro OS HSM and the 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM. Their availability and pricing have yet to be announced.
“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, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “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.”
Sigma 18–200mm f/3.5–6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary Lens. Designed for APS-C DSLRs, it is the successor to the 18–200mm f/3.5–6.3 II DC OS HSM that was launched in 2011. The smaller and lighter lens (15.2 ounces and 2.8×3.4 inches versus 17.3 ounces and 3×3.5 inches) now offers macro capabilities with a minimum focusing distance of 15.4 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3, as opposed to the earlier minimum focusing distance of 17.7 inches and max magnification ratio of 1:3.8. Its minimum working distance is 14.7 inches, which makes the lens suitable for close-up shooting with natural light.
The macro lens was also updated to incorporate special low dispersion (SLD) glass elements with a high refractive index to correct chromatic aberration at the telephoto end. Aspherical lens elements, including double-sided aspherical lenses, help ensure a compact size and distortion correction.
Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens. Reengineered and redesigned, this staple focal length lens is built for full-frame DSLRs and various types of photography, including portraits, landscapes, studio work and still life. It was updated to include SLD glass and optimized for 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. It also provides a matte finish, an improved AF on/off switch, close focusing at 15.7 inches and a 1:5.6 maximum magnification ratio. It is constructed of 13 elements in eight groups, compared to the previous eight elements in six groups.
Both lenses incorporate Sigma’s hypersonic motor (HSM) system to produce quiet, high-speed autofocus, “super multi-layer” coating to reduce flare and ghosting, and compatibility with Sigma’s USB dock and Mount Conversion Service. sigmaphoto.com
