Canon Announces EF24-70mm f/2.8L II USM Lens

Building on the strengths of the previous model, the new lens delivers improved image quality throughout the zoom range with edge-to-edge sharpness. The optical design includes three aspherical lens elements, one Super UD lens element and two UD lens elements for minimising a wide range of aberrations. UD lenses also suppress colour blurring around the subject to ensure high image resolution and contrast. Lens coatings have been optimised for accurate colour balance and minimal ghosting. The iris diaphragm closes to a circular aperture to provide attractive bokeh.

The EF24-70mm f/2.8L II USM lens is built for durability and reliability. Fluorine coatings on the external lens surfaces repel oil, water and other contaminants and enable easy cleaning with a dry cloth without the need for solvents. Dust and drip proof seals protect the mount, switch panel, focusing ring and Zoom Ring Lock Lever, enabling the lens to be used in challenging conditions.
Smaller and lighter than its predecessor, the new lens weighs just 804 grams and is 10.5 mm shorter and 145 grams lighter. Despite the large diameter of the front lens element it measures just 113 mm in the wide-end position. A Zoom Ring Lock Lever keeps the lens locked in the wide position to prevent unwanted extension.
Advanced autofocus (AF) features include a ring USM drive, a high-speed CPU and an optimised AF algorithm for fast, silent autofocusing. Full-time mechanical manual focusing is available in AF mode. This lens will focus down to 38 cm across the entire zoom range. The EF24-70mm f/2.8L II USM will be available in Australia from April 2012 for $2899 (RRP). For more information visit www.canon.com.au.