Pentax Announces Five DSLR Lenses

January 25, 2008: Pentax has expanded its range of DSLR lenses to 22 with the addition of five new lenses that have been developed specifically for Pentax DSLRs.
The new lenses include two zoom lenses, two telephoto prime lenses and a macro lens that provides up to 1:1 reproduction. The standard smc Pentax DA 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AL II has been updated to provide improved resolution to match the higher resolution sensors in the new cameras. Covering a focal length range equivalent to 27-82.5 mm in 35mm format, it suits a wide range of shooting situations. This lens will ship as a kit lens with the new K20D and K200D cameras, when they are released in March and April.
The new smc Pentax DA 55-300mm f/4-5.8 ED covers a focal length range equivalent to 82.5mm to 450mm in 35mm format and includes ED elements to minimise chromatic aberrations. It is scheduled for release in May.
The smc Pentax DA* 200mm f/2.8 ED (IF) SDM has a focal length equivalent to 300mm in 35mm format, while the smc Pentax DA* 300mm f/4 ED (IF) SDM equates to 450mm. The tripod mount on the 300mm lens is detachable, for convenient hand-held shooting. Both are high performance prime lenses with weather-resistant and dust-resistant housings. They feature SDM motors for smoother, quieter autofocusing and include ED elements. Internal focusing allows them to be used with angle-critical filters, such as polarisers and graduates.
The compact smc Pentax DA 35mm f/2.8 Macro Limited lens offers a reproduction of 1:1 with a ‘normal’ focal length (52.5mm equivalent). The optical system for this lens was jointly developed and designed with the assistance of Tokina. Constructed from high-grade aluminium it is expected to begin shipping in April.
Full specifications of the new lenses can be found at www.pentax.co.jp/english/news/2008/200803.html. The company has also released a roadmap charting future lens developments. It can be viewed at http://www.digital.pentax.co.jp/en/lens/roadmap.pdf.