Tamron SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD lens announced

 

The new SP 15-30mm f/2.8 Di VC USD lens. (Source: Tamron.)

Designed for full-frame DSLR cameras and offered in Canon, Nikon and (to come) Sony mounts, the new lens joins the existing 15mm ultra-wide and 200mm telephoto lenses that also offer maximum apertures of f/2.8 to provide an extended focal length range coverage. It is the first lens of its type equipped with VC (Vibration Compensation), an XGM (eXpanded Glass Molded Aspherical) lens element and eBAND Coating for outstanding detail and performance. Aspherical elements and LD (Low Dispersion) elements used throughout the optical system to correct most other aberrations.

VC (Vibration Compensation) stabilisation supports shooting at slow shutter speeds and in low light conditions with a significant reduction in camera shake. The 15-30mm zoom range covers subject types as diverse as landscapes, travel and street photography. The fast f/2.8 maximum aperture remains constant across the zoom range and, combined with the 9-bladed circular diaphragm, delivers attractive bokeh effects even at wide coverage angles. Fluorine coating has been applied to the front element to repel water and dirt, and make it easier to remove smudges.

The USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) focusing motor delivers high torque, high precision, and virtually silent autofocus action. A full-time manual focus mechanism permits fine focus adjustments instantly without needing to exit AF mode. A double-hood structure has been incorporated into the lens design to improve the durability of the zoom mechanism. The bundled lens hood provides effective shading of the front lens surface over the entire zoom range to minimise flare.

The lens is supplied with SILKYPIX Developer Studio for Tamron software for converting raw files. The new lens will be prices at RRP AU$1599. Versions with Canon and Nikon mounts will be available in February, 2015, with the Sony mounts to come. For full details, visit http://tamron.com.au/di15-30_a012.html.