Sigma introduces new contemporary high ratio zoom lens with its 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM zoom

Sigma introduces new contemporary high ratio zoom lens with its 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM zoom
Gentec International, the exclusive Canadian distributor of Sigma lenses, announces the new 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM | Contemporary, a brand new lens in the Sigma lineup. This compact, versatile lens includes Sigma’s optical stabilization (OS) function and is ideal for all types of photography, offering an incredible 16.6x zoom range with coverage from a wide-angle of 18mm (equivalent to 27mm on a full-frame camera) to a telephoto of 300mm (equivalent to 450mm on a full-frame camera), as well as macro. The Sigma 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM lens has a suggested retail price of $699.95 and will be available for Canon, Nikon and Sigma in November; Pentax and Sony versions will follow later this year. The AML72-01 Close-Up lens has a suggested retail price of $79.95 and will also be available in November. SPECIAL FEATURES Excellent optical performance to satisfy experienced users The new 18-300mm incorporates 4 FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements in addition to 1 SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass element. These new elements help to minimize chromatic aberration, especially toward the telephoto-end, and provide clear image quality with high colour fidelity. Newly Developed OS System Sigma engineers have worked closely on the image stabilization system, from construction to firmware algorithms, in an effort to achieve 3.5 stops of compensation. New close-up lens attachment offering magnification ratio of 1:2 This lens features a minimum focusing distance of 39 cm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3, making it possible to shoot subjects as close as macro lenses. To get even closer, Sigma has developed the AML72-01 close-up lens (sold separately), offering a maximum magnification ratio 1:2 while maintaining outstanding quality. High-performance throughout the entire zoom range This lens incorporates Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements that have a high refractive index to effectively correct chromatic aberration at the telephoto end. Aspherical lens elements, including double-sided aspherical lenses, ensure a compact size and excellent correction of distortion. This also helps to produce superior rendering performance throughout the entire zoom range from wide-angle to telephoto and macro photography. ADDITIONAL FEATURES Contemporary line lenses can handle all kinds of photo opportunities Sigma is organizing its interchangeable lenses into three product lines: Art, Contemporary, and Sports. Featuring the very latest technology, and combining high optical performance with compactness, the Contemporary line covers a wide range of needs. The 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM is the latest all-in-one addition to the Contemporary line, covering everything from wide-angle to telephoto, as well as macro photography. Optical stabilizer (OS) Sigma’s optical stabilizer (OS) system offers superior stabilization, making it possible to compensate effectively for camera shake, even in macro photography where a small blur can easily compromise a photo. (The OS function is not incorporated in the Pentax and Sony versions.) Designed to minimize flare and ghosting Advanced optical design and Sigma’s Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting and provides sharp, high-contrast images, even in backlit conditions. Attaching the supplied petal-type lens hood provides extra protection from flare and ghosting. Rounded diaphragm The 7-blade rounded diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out-of-focus areas of the image at large apertures. Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) The Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) ensures quiet, high-speed autofocusing. With the enhanced AF algorithm, smoother autofocusing is achieved. Brass bayonet mount A specially treated brass bayonet mount ensures maximum precision, greater strength, and superior durability for long-term use. Ease of use The new ergonomic design offers comfortable grips and unobtrusive yet easy-to-use controls. For improved handling, the design of the lens hood, lens cap, and AF/MF changeover switch have been updated. Newly developed “USB Dock” (optional) exclusively for new Sigma lenses Designed for the newest Sigma lenses, proprietary Optimization Pro software allows photographers to update lens firmware and adjust parameters such as focus. Evaluation with Sigma’s “A1” MTF measuring system Replacing an MTF measuring system using conventional sensors, Sigma now employs a proprietary MTF (modulation transfer function) measuring system (A1) using 46-megapixel Foveon direct image sensors. Previously undetectable high-frequency details are now within the scope of Sigma’s quality control inspections. Made in Japan All Sigma’s manufacturing, including molds and parts, is carried out under an integrated production system entirely in Japan. Sigma is now one of the very few manufacturers whose products are solely “made in Japan”, with each product reflecting a combination of expertise, advanced technology, and genuine craftsmanship. Mount Conversion Service This lens is eligible for Sigma’s Mount Conversion Service, a paid service that lets you change the mount to use the lens on a different camera body. For program details, visit www.SigmaCanada.ca. Canadian Warranty Like all Sigma lenses, this lens is backed by a comprehensive seven-year Canadian warranty.   Specifications: Focal Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18-300mm Minimum Aperture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .F22 Lens Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Elements in 13 Groups Angle of View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76.5°- 5.4° Number of Diaphragm Blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 (rounded diaphragm) Minimum Focusing Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 cm / 15.4” Maximum Magnification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:3 Filter Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 mm Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Diameter: 79 mm / 3.1 ” x Length: 101.5 mm / 4.0” Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .585 g / 20.6 oz Mounts (AF) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Sony, Sigma Includes: Lens Hood (LH780-07) Appearance and specifications are subject to change for improvement without notice. Note: OS function is not incorporated in Sony and Pentax versions.