photoxels
The Sigma 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM Contemporary joins the Sigma lineup as an all-purpose lens for all types of photography. It is relatively compact with a versatile 16.6x zoom range with coverage from a wide-angle of 18mm to a telephoto of 300 mm zoom range. It incorporates Sigma’s optical stabilization (OS) function.
It will be available in November for Canon, Nikon and Sigma with a suggested retail price of $699.95. Pentax and Sony versions will follow later this year. The AML72-01 Close-up lens will also be available in November with a suggested retail price of $79.95.
MEDIA RELEASE
September 15, 2014
Sigma introduces new contemporary high ratio zoom lens with its 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM zoom
Gentec International, the exclusive Canadian distributor of Sigma lenses, announces the new 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM | Contemporary, a brand new lens in the Sigma lineup. This compact, versatile lens includes Sigma’s optical stabilization (OS) function and is ideal for all types of photography, offering an incredible 16.6x zoom range with coverage from a wide-angle of 18mm (equivalent to 27mm on a full-frame camera) to a telephoto of 300mm (equivalent to 450mm on a full-frame camera), as well as macro.
The Sigma 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM lens has a suggested retail price of $699.95 and will be available for Canon, Nikon and Sigma in November; Pentax and Sony versions will follow later this year. The AML72-01 Close-Up lens has a suggested retail price of $79.95 and will also be available in November.
SPECIAL FEATURES
Excellent optical performance to satisfy experienced users
The new 18-300mm incorporates 4 FLD (“F” Low Dispersion) glass elements in addition to 1 SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass element. These new elements help to minimize chromatic aberration, especially toward the telephoto-end, and provide clear image quality with high colour fidelity.
Newly Developed OS System
Sigma engineers have worked closely on the image stabilization system, from construction to firmware algorithms, in an effort to achieve 3.5 stops of compensation.
New close-up lens attachment offering magnification ratio of 1:2
This lens features a minimum focusing distance of 39 cm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3, making it possible to shoot subjects as close as macro lenses. To get even closer, Sigma has developed the AML72-01 close-up lens (sold separately), offering a maximum magnification ratio 1:2 while maintaining outstanding quality.
High-performance throughout the entire zoom range
This lens incorporates Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements that have a high refractive index to effectively correct chromatic aberration at the telephoto end. Aspherical lens elements, including double-sided aspherical lenses, ensure a compact size and excellent correction of distortion. This also helps to produce superior rendering performance throughout the entire zoom range from wide-angle to telephoto and macro photography.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Contemporary line lenses can handle all kinds of photo opportunities
Sigma is organizing its interchangeable lenses into three product lines: Art, Contemporary, and Sports. Featuring the very latest technology, and combining high optical performance with compactness, the Contemporary line covers a wide range of needs. The 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM is the latest all-in-one addition to the Contemporary line, covering everything from wide-angle to telephoto, as well as macro photography.
Optical stabilizer (OS)
Sigma’s optical stabilizer (OS) system offers superior stabilization, making it possible to compensate effectively for camera shake, even in macro photography where a small blur can easily compromise a photo. (The OS function is not incorporated in the Pentax and Sony versions.)
Designed to minimize flare and ghosting
Advanced optical design and Sigma’s Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting and provides sharp, high-contrast images, even in backlit conditions. Attaching the supplied petal-type lens hood provides extra protection from flare and ghosting.
Rounded diaphragm
The 7-blade rounded diaphragm creates an attractive blur to the out-of-focus areas of the image at large apertures.
Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM)
The Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) ensures quiet, high-speed autofocusing. With the enhanced AF algorithm, smoother autofocusing is achieved.
Brass bayonet mount
A specially treated brass bayonet mount ensures maximum precision, greater strength, and superior durability for long-term use.
Ease of use
The new ergonomic design offers comfortable grips and unobtrusive yet easy-to-use controls. For improved handling, the design of the lens hood, lens cap, and AF/MF changeover switch have been updated.
Newly developed “USB Dock” (optional) exclusively for new Sigma lenses
Designed for the newest Sigma lenses, proprietary Optimization Pro software allows photographers to update lens firmware and adjust parameters such as focus.
Evaluation with Sigma’s “A1” MTF measuring system
Replacing an MTF measuring system using conventional sensors, Sigma now employs a proprietary MTF (modulation transfer function) measuring system (A1) using 46-megapixel Foveon direct image sensors. Previously undetectable high-frequency details are now within the scope of Sigma’s quality control inspections.
Made in Japan
All Sigma’s manufacturing, including molds and parts, is carried out under an integrated production system entirely in Japan. Sigma is now one of the very few manufacturers whose products are solely “made in Japan”, with each product reflecting a combination of expertise, advanced technology, and genuine craftsmanship.
Mount conversion Service
This lens is eligible for Sigma’s Mount Conversion Service, a paid service that lets you change the mount to use the lens on a different camera body. For program details, visit www.SigmaCanada.ca.
Canadian Warranty
Like all Sigma lenses, this lens is backed by a comprehensive seven-year Canadian warranty.
For more information, please contact Samantha Eng, Cohn & Wolfe, at 416-924-5700, extension 4031, or email samantha.eng@cohnwolfe.ca.
About Gentec International
Founded in 1990, Gentec International is Canada’s leading consumer accessory products company, supplying a complete range of photo, video, digital, sport optics, home theatre, electronics, wireless, and mobile audio products to the Canadian retail marketplace. Gentec offers a variety of prominent brands, including Optex, Sigma, SanDisk, Manfrotto, Gitzo, National Geographic, Kata, Avenger, Roots, Gary Fong, Black Rapid, iQ, Sunpak, Energizer, Bushnell, Tasco, and Zeiss. Gentec operates out of a high-cube, state-of-the-art, fully computerized 100,000-square- foot warehouse and distribution centre that offers efficient, seamless service to our customers. With over 90 employees, Gentec covers the needs of its retailers coast to coast using the latest technology systems, streamlined efficiencies, and customer service that is second to none.
Learn more – visit www.gentec-intl.com.
