Sigma introduces the perfect all-around lens with its updated 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM zoom

Sigma introduces the perfect all-around lens with its updated 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM zoom
Gentec International, the exclusive Canadian distributor of Sigma lenses, announces the new 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM, an updated version of Sigma’s popular 18-200mm zoom lens. This compact, versatile lens includes Sigma’s optical stabilization (OS) function and is ideal for all types of photography, offering coverage from a wide-angle of 18mm (equivalent to 27mm on a full-frame camera) to a telephoto of 200mm (equivalent to 300mm on a full-frame camera), as well as macro. SPECIAL 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 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM is the latest addition to the Contemporary line, covering everything from wide-angle to telephoto, as well as macro photography. High-performance, all-purpose lens Featuring a versatile focal range that has been in Sigma’s collection since 2005, this new lens has been redeveloped to deliver higher performance in a smaller, lighter design, and it now includes a macro feature. Smaller size compared to its predecessor By incorporating double-sided aspherical lens elements and downsizing the motor, Sigma has reduced the diameter of this lens by 4.6 mm compared to the previous version. The new lens is one of the smallest in the class of lenses with more than a 7x zoom ratio. 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. Close-up photography 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. Thermally Stable Composite (TSC) material This lens incorporates Thermally Stable Composite (TSC) material, which has the same level of thermal shrinkage as aluminum and it has low elasticity, even with extreme temperature changes. Since thermal shrinkage is low, it has a high affinity to metal parts, which ensures precision in the lens construction. It also results in slimmer mechanical parts, such as the zoom and scale rings. ADDITIONAL FEATURES 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. The Sigma 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM lens has a suggested retail price of $499.95 and will be available for Canon, Nikon and Sigma in April; Pentax and Sony versions will follow later this year.   SPECIFICATIONS: Focal Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18-200mm Minimum Aperture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .F22 Lens Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Elements in 13 Groups Angle of View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76.5°- 8.1° Number of Diaphragm Blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 (rounded diaphragm) Minimum Focusing Distance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 cm / 15.4” Maximum Magnification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1:3 Filter Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 mm Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Diameter: 70.7 mm / 2.8” x Length: 86 mm / 3.4” Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .430 g / 15.2 oz Mounts (AF) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Canon, Nikon, Pentax, Sony, Sigma Includes: Lens Hood (LH676-01) Appearance and specifications are subject to change for improvement without notice. Note: OS function is not incorporated in Sony and Pentax versions.