Together with the Alpha 1 II, Sony also announced a fast zoom yesterday. The FE 28-70 mm F2 GM is the first G Master standard zoom lens with a constant aperture of F2 and is said to offer optical quality over the entire zoom range that, according to Sony, comes close to that of fixed focal lengths.
Sony FE 28-70 mm F2 GM
Three XA (Extreme Aspherical) elements are said to ensure high resolution, while Super ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) and ED glass elements correct chromatic aberrations. An AR Nano Coating II from Sony is designed to minimize stray light and ghosting effects. Additional protection against stray light is provided by optics designed to suppress internal reflections, so that clear images are guaranteed even with strong light sources in the picture.
A new diaphragm unit with 11 blades and a floating focus is installed, which is intended to ensure high sharpness over the entire zoom range even at short focusing distances down to 0.38 m. The large, heavy focus unit is driven by four XD (Extreme Dynamic) linear motors, and the control algorithms are said to respond precisely and quickly.
The lens is compatible with the continuous shooting of the α9 III with up to 120 fps with full AF/AE tracking, and the focus continues to be tracked even when zooming. Thanks to the AF tracking performance, it should be possible to achieve focus for[VM1] recordings with the high frame rate of 4K 120p/FHD 240p (depending on the camera used and the settings, however).
The XD linear motors and the aperture unit are said to work quietly and support the internal breathing compensation of the α cameras and the Active Mode image stabilization of the α series. Other features include the option of linear manual focus adjustment, adjustment of the direction of rotation of the zoom ring and an aperture ring with switchable click-stop function. There are also two customizable focus hold buttons, an aperture lock switch and an AF/MF switch.
The new G-Master measures 92.9 x 139.8 mm and weighs 918 grams. The filter diameter is 86 mm, and the lens hood is equipped with a small window to facilitate the handling of a variable filter.
A fluorine coating on the front of the lens repels dirt and makes cleaning easier. The lens is said to be protected against the ingress of dust and moisture - among other things, the buttons and switches are fitted with silicone seals and the lens mount is fitted with a rubber ring.
Price and availability
The Sony FE 28-70 mm F2 GM costs €3,599 and will be available from December 2024.
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