Tamron is Developing a Second-Gen 70-180mm f/2.8 for Sony E-Mount
Tamron has announced that it is developing a 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VC VXD G2 (Model A065) for Sony E-mount cameras. This second generation version of the popular optic is expected to arrive this Fall.
This second-generation optic comes about three years after Tamron released the first 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD, what would become one of the most popular third-party telephoto zoom lenses for Sony E-mount. While the lens didn’t exhibit the best-looking out of focus areas, or bokeh, it did resolve on high-resolution sensors extremely well. At its $1,200 launch price, the range mixed with excellent sharpness and resolving power made it a fantastic value.
The new G2 version integrates Tamron’s VC, or vibration compensation, that the company says will improve its performance hand-held thanks to the greater stability that technology affords.
Even with the addition of VC, Tamron says the lens measures 6.2-inches long and weighs 30.2 ounces (855 grams), which is just slightly longer and heavier than its predecessor (it was 5.9 inches long and weighed 28.6 ounces, or 810 grams).
As expected, the optic is compatible with many camera-specific features and functions — including Fast Hybrid AF and Eye AF — and it has a moisture resistant build as well as a fluorine coating on the front element. It retains the same 67mm front filter size as well.
Tamron also says that the optical design has been revamped, allowing it to improve what was already very good image quality across the entire zoom range. Additionally, the lens features a shortened minimum object distance (or minimum focusing distance) significantly, down from 33.5 inches to a very close 11.8 inches at the wide end. Tamron also says that the new 70-180mm f/2.8 design improves operability and provides scratch resistance.
The lens still uses Tamron’s VXD (Voice-coil eXtreme-torque Drive) linear focusing motor to allow for high-speed, high precision autofocusing capability in both stills and video. It is also compatible with Tamron’s Lens Utility and Lens Utility Mobile apps that can be used to customize functions based on various shooting styles for still photography and video.
“This single lens combines profound maneuverability and practicality that is worthy of the second-generation G2 badge and will deliver shooting experiences that make a fast-aperture telephoto zoom lens even more enjoyable,” Tamron says.
As is typical with Tamron development announcements, no pricing or a specific release date was noted, but expect that information to be shared (along with sample images captured with the lens) as the Fall release window approaches.
Image credits: Tamron
