Sony launches lens duo

24-70mm and 70-300mm optics on their way

31 January 2008 11:09 GMT / By Katie Scott

Two lens launches have followed on from Sony's announcement today of two additions to its DSLR line-up.

First up is the Vario Sonnar T* 24-70mm f/2.8 ZA, which was co-developed with Carl Zeiss.

Thye otherwise named SAL2470Z model is a wide angle 24-70mm zoom lens with a f/2.8 aperture, and is claimed to be best suited to landscape and portrait photography.

It is constructed of 17 elements in 13 groups with two aspheric elements and two extra-low dispersion elements.

Its Carl Zeiss T* (T star) coating technology "provides higher light transmission, and minimizes flare to produce images of luminous clarity, color and sharpness", claims Sony.

Sony adds: "Combined with Sony’s in-camera Super SteadyShot system, this lens is the only compatible large aperture standard zoom with the benefit of image stabilisation available in the industry."

Another key feature is the lens' Super Sonic wave Motor (SSM) technology.

This system utilises a solid-state focus drive motor that features silent, high-speed response with high-torque and fine rotational control – especially important for large, wide aperture lenses.

A mode selector for manual and automatic focus as well as a focus hold control is provided on the lens barrel.

Next up is the 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G optic, which is a telephoto zoom lens ideal for sports and portrait photography.

This lens is constructed from 16 elements in 11 groups, with one extra-low dispersion element.

The use of extra-low dispersion glass compensates for chromatic aberrations.

To keep the lens' size down, Sony has employed an internal focus construction, which also supports a close focusing capability of 1.2m

Alike the 24-70mm optic, the focus drive is provided by Sony’s Super Sonic wave Motor (SSM) technology.

Sony adds that to match auto focus operation to the situation, a focus range limiter can be set to a minimum distance of three meters.

It continues that a lens barrel mounted focus hold button locks focus if desired.

Both lenses will be available this spring.

The Vario-Sonnar T* 24-70mm f/2.8 ZA lens will be available for about $1,750 and the 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G lens will be available for about $800.

There is no UK release date as yet.