Samyang (also branded as Rokinon and Bower), has released a new full-frame 24–70mm F2.8 autofocus (AF) lens for Sony E mount cameras.
The lens is constructed of 17 elements in 14 groups, including two aspherical elements, three high-refractive elements, three extra-low dispersion elements and a single ‘HB’ element.
There’s a nine-bladed aperture diaphragm, a maximum aperture of F2.8, a minimum focusing distance of 35cm (1.15ft) and an 82mm front filter thread.
Here’s a promo videos from Samyang:
The lens uses Samyang’s linear stepping motor (STM) autofocus system. However, this lens has one trick up its sleeve because it a par-focal lens, which means once the focus is set, changing the focal length of the lens won’t change the focus point. This is something you would typically expect to see in much more expensive cine lenses, as it prevents the need to rack focus when you’re zooming in on a subject.
The lens is weather-sealed and you’ll also find a customizable sliding switch on the lens barrel that can turn the focus ring into an aperture ring.
The Samyang AF 24-70mm F2.8 FE will cost $999.00 in the US and £828.00 in the UK. We don’t have a first shipment date at this time.
For further details please visit Samyang’s product page for this lens, or see the early reviews and specifications below.
Early Reviews
John Sison
Key Specifications
| Name: | Samyang AF 24-70mm F2.8 FE |
| Mount: | Sony Full-Frame E-Mount |
| Focal Length: | 24-70mm |
| Maximum Aperture: | F2.8 |
| Minimum Aperture: | F22 |
| Lens Construction: | 17 Elements in 14 Groups |
| Angle of View (Full-Frame): | 53˚ – 86˚ |
| Angle of View (APS-C): | 36˚ – 62˚ |
| Maximum Magnification Ratio: | 0.1x – 0.27x |
| Aperture Blades: | 9 |
| Minimum Focussing Distance: | 0.35m (1.15ft) |
| Filter Size: | 82mm |
| Lens Size (length): | 128.5mm / 5.1in |
| Weight: | 1,027g / 36.2oz |
I have a feeling while this is a great lense, the Tamron G2 will be still king. At least maybe best for most.