Pentax Launches High Performance DA* Zoom Lens Range

Pentax today launched the new, high performance smc PENTAX-DA*, interchangeable, zoom lens range. The PENTAX-DA*16-50mm and smc PENTAX-DA*50-135mm are the first model in the range and boast a supersonic motor, providing the smoothest, quietest auto focusing operation have offered. Designed exclusively for use with Pentax’s digital SLR cameras, the lenses bring together Pentax’s advanced optical technologies, including aspherical elements and original lens coatings. The weather and dust resistant coating on the new range also provides a completely weather-resistant system when combined with the Pentax K10D. “Our engineers are rightly proud of their achievements with these new DA* lenses” says Phil Williams, Divisional Head, Imaging Systems at Pentax. “Each one is testament to Pentax’ continuous pursuit of the ultimate image quality in digital photography” Williams continues Expect to see these lenses available from retailers as of May 2007. See below for full specifications – smc PENTAX-DA * 16-50mm F2.8EDAL[IF]SDM Lens mount PENTAX KAF2 mount Lens construction 15 elements in 12 groups Angle of view 83-31.5° (when used with PENTAX dSLR camera body) Aperture control Automatic Minimum aperture F22 Number of diaphragm blades 9 Metering system TTL open-aperture metering Minimum focusing distance 0.3 m Filter size 77mm Maximum magnification 0.21x Dimensions(d x l) 84mm x 98.5mm (3.3" x 3.9") Weight 565g (19.9oz) w/o hood / 600g ( 21.2 oz) with hood smc PENTAX-DA * 50-135mm F2.8ED [IF]SDM Lens mount PENTAX KAF2 mount Lens construction 18 elements in 14 groups Angle of view 31.5-11.9°( when used with PENTAX dSLR camera body) Aperture control Automatic Minimum aperture F22 Number of diaphragm blades 9 Metering system TTL open-aperture metering Minimum focusing distance 1.0 m Filter size 67mm Maximum magnification 0.17x Dimensions (d x l) 76.5mm x 136mm(3.0" x 5.4") Weight 685g ( 24.2 oz) w/o hood / 765g ( 27.0 oz) with hood Got an opinion on this story? Why not post a comment on our news message boards