Nikon has updated its AF 80u2013400mm telephoto lens with the new AF-S 80u2013400mmf/4.5-5.6G ED VR.

Today Nikon has announced a highly anticipated update to its incredibly popular AF 80-400mm telephoto lens. The new AF-S 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR telephoto zoom lens has been “upgraded for the new generation of DSLRs”, offering a greatly improved autofocus mechanism, increased VR (Vibration Reduction) compensation and an enhanced optical formula.
 
Designed with fast, high-resolution D-SLRs in mind, the combination of broad 80-400mm range and relatively portable build makes this lens an incredibly convenient way to meet most telephoto requirements.
 
Boasting 20 elements in 12 groups, and crafted to deliver superb results in diverse conditions, the lens is equipped with Nikon’s Nano Crystal Coat, which combats ghosting and flare, as well as four ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass elements and one Super ED glass element. The ED glass helps correct chromatic aberration and optical color defects that longer focal lengths can experience.
 
In order to improve stability throughout the broad zoom range, Nikon’s Vibration Reduction system allows for up to 4-stop compensation (provides compensation equivalent to a shutter speed approximately four stops slower) even at 400mm. In addition, Normal and Active VR modes deliver stable shooting for different amounts and rates of camera movement, while automatic tripod detection reduces vibration from shutter release when the camera is mounted on a tripod.
 
To reduce focusing time, when shooting within a specific distance range, the focus limit switch offers two settings (“FULL” and ∞-6m), whilst the AF works even when a 1.4x teleconverter is attached to an f/8-compatible camera.
 
This lens comes with a lens cap (LC-77), a lens hood (HB-65), a lens case (CL-M2), and a detachable tripod foot that improves balance and enables more comfortable switching between landscape and portrait orientation when the camera is mounted on a tripod.
 
Nikon’s AF-S 80-400mmf/4.5-5.6G ED VR telephoto zoom lens is set to be available on 19th March 2013, with a launch price of £2,449.99. For further information visit the Nikon website.