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Sony claims that the new FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II is the world’s smallest and lightest standard zoom lens.
NAB wouldn’t be NAB without at least one lens story from the show floor and Sony have pitched in with a bit of a ground-breaking one. According to the company, the new FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II is the world’s smallest and lightest AF-supporting standard zoom.
The 67th lens in the Sony mirrorless E-mount line-up is certainly a lot smaller and lighter than its illustrious predecessor, the original 24-70 mm F2.8 G Master released six years ago. It weighs a mere 24.6oz (695g), 20% less than its parent, and is 16mm shorter and occupies approximately 18% less volume.
These are all impressive figures, but the $2300 lens doesn’t stop there, also piling on a decent range of updated new features for both video and stills.
A completely redesigned optical path features five aspherical elements, including two high-precision XA (extreme aspherical) elements. The FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II also includes two ED (extra-low dispersion) plus two Super ED glass elements. Combined with a new floating focus mechanism, the lens effectively controls chromatic aberration, astigmatism, distortion and coma so that excellent resolution is achieved throughout the image area at all zoom and aperture settings.
Sony's original Nano AR Coating II works to subdue flare and ghosting via a uniform anti-reflecting coating on the lens surface. The FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II also produces what the company refers to as ‘stunning’ almost perfectly circular bokeh throughout the zoom range thanks to a newly developed 11-blade aperture unit.
Focus is via four of Sony's extremely quiet original XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors, a floating focus mechanism and advanced lens control – even when shooting a fast-moving subject. In addition, the lens supports up to 30fps continuous shooting for stills and 4K 120p video recording with autofocus. The lens' AF tracking performance while zooming is approximately two times better than the previous model.
The FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II also features reduced focus breathing, focus shift and axial shift when zooming for smooth video footage. It supports the breathing compensation function provided in compatible Alpha series cameras and, as an added benefit for video shooters, it includes Linear Response MF (manual focus) to help ensure high repeatability when focusing manually as the focus ring responds directly and repeatedly to subtle control. It also includes an aperture ring making manual aperture/iris control fast, direct, and easy. The dedicated iris ring enables click-less control to achieve smooth depth of field transitions.
The centre of gravity has been moved back toward the mount for improved handling and operation and an updated dust and moisture resistant design provides extra reliability for outdoor use in challenging conditions. Buttons and switches are fitted with rubber gaskets, and a rubber ring seals the lens mount. The front lens element also features a fluorine coating that repels water, oil, and other contaminants, while making it easier to wipe off any contaminants or fingerprints that become attached to the lens surface.
Price as previously mentioned is $2300 and the lens will be available in June.
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