Commack, NY—Tamron launched the SP 70–200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 (model A025), a fast telephoto zoom lens for full-frame and APS-C digital SLR cameras.
The next-generation lens was developed by substantially enhancing the features of its predecessor. These include the optical, mechanical and electronic designs to increase autofocus speed and precision, reinforce VC (vibration compensation) functions and shorten the MOD. To focus closer, the minimum object distance was reduced from 50.7 inches in the older model A009 to 37.4 inches in this lens.
Newly added features include eBAND coating, moisture-proof and dust-resistant construction and fluorine coating. Compatible with teleconverters, the lens also has a metal-based barrel for improved handling. As a result, model A025 is suitable for a range of photography genres, such as portraits, landscapes, sports and photojournalism.
Tamron SP 70–200mm Highlights
Both the resolution and contrast reproduction performance of this lens exceed its predecessor. Bokeh was enhanced and expanded to deliver artistic background effects across the entire zoom range. Use of a circular diaphragm with nine blades improves these effects.
The optical construction of the lens consists of 23 elements in 17 groups. The deployment of XLD (eXtra low dispersion) and LD glass elements works to eliminate chromatic aberrations that tend to be prominent in high-speed telephoto lenses. These elements also help to ensuring uniform image quality, even on the periphery of the image plane.
The lens is also fully compatible with Tamron’s teleconverter 1.4x (model TC-X14) and 2.0x (model TC-X20), which increase the focal length of the lens to 1.4 times and 2 times the original, respectively. Mounted on a full-frame DSLR they provide a zoom range of 98–280mm and 140–400mm, respectively. On an APS-C-format DSLR the range increases to 152–434mm and 217–620mm, respectively.
In addition, the magnification ratio of the SP 70–200mm G2 is 1:6.1. With the 1.4x teleconverter is becomes 1:4; with the 2.0x, it is 1:3.
VC System Improvements
Additionally, Tamron announced it improved the VC system to provide the “highest vibration compensation ability in its class (5 stops using CIPA standard compliant).”
And it offers thr
ee VC modes. VC mode 1 is the standard mode. It strikes a balance between the stability of the viewfinder image and the stabilization effects of captured images. VC 2 is exclusively used for panning. Additionally, VC 3 prioritizes the stabilization of captured images and forgoes the stabilization of the viewfinder image. Furthermore, with the optional Tamron TAP-in Console accessory, users can customize the configuration of VC mode 1.
In addition, to improve autofocus speed and responsiveness, the lens is equipped with a USD (ultrasonic silent drive) ring-type ultrasonic motor. And thanks to the full-time manual focus override mechanism, photographers shooting with AF can make fine focusing adjustments using MF without wasting time switching the AF-MF mode back and forth.
Tamron Lens Coating Technology
The A025 also employs Tamron’s original eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) coating. This technology combines a nano-structured layer featuring an extremely low refractive index with conventional multiple layer coatings. Optimized exclusively for this lens, the eBAND coating is said to provide superior antireflection performance to reduce flare and ghosting.
Furthermore, the front surface of the lens is coated with a protective fluorine compound that is water and oil repellent. As a result, the surface is easier to wipe clean and less vulnerable to damage from dirt, moisture and fingerprints.
Also new is an electromagnetic diaphragm system that’s now used for Nikon-mount lenses, in addition to its standard presence in Canon-mount lenses. More precise diaphragm and aperture control is possible because the diaphragm blades are driven and controlled by the motor through electronic pulse signals.
Tamron’s SP 70–200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2 will ship in March. It includes a tripod mount compatible with Arca-Swiss-style quick-release plates. The lens will have a suggested retail price of $1,299. tamron-usa.com
