Tamron Adds VC to 17-50mm f/2.8 Lens

September 7, 2009: Tamron has announced the impending release of a new SP AF17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II VC LD Aspherical [IF] lens, which features the company’s proprietary tri-axial Vibration Compensation (VC) mechanism.
Covering the popular 17-50mm focal length range (equivalent to 26-78mm in the full-frame 35mm format), the new lens consists of 19 elements in 14 groups. With a minimum focusing distance of 29 cm at all focal lengths, it supports a wide f/2.8 maximum aperture across the focal length range. The VC mechanism moves the internal optical components electromagnetically, in response to signals from three steel ball bearings, which support the lens elements. They provide almost frictionless movement, which is smooth and provides stabilised viewfinder images. The system also improves tracking performance.

Tamron’s new SP AF17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II VC LD Aspherical [IF] lens. (Source: Tamron.)
The fast maximum aperture makes this lens ideal for low light photography and also provides great potential for depth-of-field control. Tamron has used XR (Extra Refractive Index) glass to optimise the power distribution in the lens, while reducing its overall size and providing good correction for common optical aberrations. Two LD (Low Dispersion) lens elements are also employed to correct axial chromatic aberrations and chromatic aberrations due to magnification. The fall-off in peripheral brightness that limits resolution in wide-angle shooting is also well controlled.
The latest BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) multi-layer coatings reduce reflection within the lens, increasing light transmission. Internal coatings have also been applied to all the cemented surfaces of lens elements to minimise flare and ghosting. The new SP AF17-50mm f/2.8 lens is only 94.5 mm in length and weighs 570 grams. It accepts 72mm diameter filters and has seven diaphragm blades. A zoom lock is provided to prevent unwanted extension of the barrel when the lens is carried pointing downwards. A petal-shaped lens hood comes as a standard accessory.
Tamron’s SP AF17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II VC LD Aspherical [IF] lens will be available in November with a Nikon mount and December for Canon cameras. It is expected to sell for $995 (RRP). For more information, phone Maxwell International Australia on 1300 882 517 or email sales@maxwell.com.au. Product details can be found at www.tamron.com.