SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 (Model A022)

Introducing the pinnacle of ultra-telephoto zoom with advanced features, enhanced performance, and improved ergonomics

September 1, 2016, Saitama, Japan – Tamron Co., Ltd. (President & CEO: Shiro Ajisaka), a leading manufacturer of optics for diverse applications, announces the launch of the SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 (Model A022). This second generation “G2” lens builds upon the success of the SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD (Model A011), which launched in December 2013 and continues to successfully meet photographers’ needs in the ultra-telephotography category. The new G2 version was developed to provide superior optical performance with today’s high resolution DSLRs and to add improvements to several features including speed and accuracy of AF and VC (Vibration Compensation). Also, several new features have been added: FLEX ZOOM LOCK mechanism, Fluorine Coating and optional tele converters. The new lens delivers outstanding performance and a luxurious, upscale appearance, including a metal lens barrel.

PRODUCT NAME:
SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 (Model A022)

DATE OF LAUNCH (in Japan):
September 15, 2016
The Canon and Nikon mount models will be launched simultaneously. The launch date of the Sony*1 mount model will be announced at a later date.

*1 The Sony mount model does not include VC (Vibration Compensation), since the bodies of Sony DSLR cameras include built-in image stabilization functionality. The name of the Sony mount model is “SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di USD G2 (Model A022)” without the VC designation.

1. Optical design refreshed to achieve even higher performance
   Three LD (Low Dispersion) lens elements completely eliminate axial and transverse chromatic aberrations. The design also features upgraded optical construction (21 elements in 13 groups) and leverages improvements in manufacturing technology. As a result, the lens delivers high resolution, improved sharpness and overall better performance.
2. Tamron’s sophisticated eBAND Coating for eliminating ghosting and flare
   eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating is a nano-structured layer deployed on the lens element surface. In addition to regular anti-reflection coatings, eBAND Coating offers higher light transmission and significant improvement in anti-reflection characteristics, especially against angulated incident rays. Combined with of BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) coatings, flare and ghosting are reduced to imperceptible levels.
3. MOD reduced to provide optimum tele-macro photography
   Tamron’s advanced manufacturing technology has made it possible to reduce the MOD (Minimum Object Distance) to 2.2m (86.6 in), compared to 2.7m for Model A011, and has allowed for the wonders of tele-macro photography.
4. AF speed is faster and much more responsive with moving subjects
   The Model A022 is equipped with a USD (Ultrasonic Silent Drive) ring-type motor that delivers excellent responsiveness and control. AF speed is significantly improved from current model, and it enables accurate high-speed focus even when capturing moving subjects. When shooting with AF, the Full-time Manual Focus override allows you to instantly make fine focusing adjustments manually, without having to switch between modes.
5. VC performance is now 4.5 stops and offers three modes optimized for different situations
   The VC (Vibration Compensation) effectiveness is equivalent to 4.5 stops, based on image stabilization performance levels established by CIPA (Camera & Imaging Products Association) when using in VC MODE 3. Model A022 now has three types of VC modes, and it is possible to choose the optimum VC mode according to the situation for taking a photograph, such as when wishing to pan the camera.
   VC MODE 1 is the standard mode that strikes a great balance between the stability of the viewfinder image and the stabilization effects.
   VC MODE 2 is exclusively used for panning.
   VC MODE 3 prioritizes the stabilization of the captured images and forgoes the stabilization of the viewfinder image.
   
   With the optional accessory TAMRON TAP-in ConsoleTM, you can custom the configuration of VC MODE 1. Choose the viewfinder view of either standard or viewfinder image priority.
6. New FLEX ZOOM LOCK mechanism enables the locking of the zoom ring at any position
   FLEX ZOOM LOCK mechanism quickly locks or unlocks the zoom at any position simply by sliding the zoom ring. Photographers can shoot from any angle without the zoom extending unintentionally. Additionally, the conventional Zoom Lock switch prevents unwanted barrel extension during transportation.
7. Fluorine Coating and the Moisture-Resistant Construction for a more user-friendly lens
   The front surface of the lens element is coated with a protective fluorine compound that is water- and oil-repellant. The lens surface is easier to wipe clean and is less vulnerable to the damaging effects of dirt, dust, moisture and fingerprints. For greater protection when shooting outdoors, leak-proof seals throughout the lens barrel help protect your equipment.
8. Electromagnetic diaphragm system now used also for Nikon-mount lenses
   An electromagnetic diaphragm system, which has been a standard feature for Canon-mount lenses, is now employed in Nikon-mount lenses*2. More precise diaphragm and aperture control is possible because the diaphragm blades are driven and controlled by a motor through electronic pulse signals.
9. The lightweight and easy-to-hold tripod mount that is compatible with an Arca-Swiss style quick release plate
   A new textured grip and Arca-Swiss style tripod interface enhances both speed and utility. And because the tripod mount is made of lightweight magnesium, it is much easier to carry.
   
   *2 Available only with cameras compatible with the electromagnetic diaphragm (D3100, D3200, D3300, D5000, D5100, D5200, D5300, D5500, D7000, D7100, D7200, D300, D300s, D600, D610, D700, D750, D800, D800E, D810, D810A, D3x, D3s, D4, D4s, Df, D500, D5). (As of September 1; Tamron
10. Compatible with TAMRON TAP-in ConsoleTM, an optional accessory product
    The optional TAP-in Console provides a USB connection to your personal computer, enabling you to easily update your lens’s firmware as well as customize features including fine adjustments to the AF and VC.
11. The tele converters exclusively for the Tamron lens now developed
    Two exclusive tele converters*3, which perfectly match the optics of the new SP 150-600mm G2 (Model A022), offer 1.4x and 2.0x magnification, and provide a maximum zoom range up to 1200mm. These new tele converters extend focal length of the master lens, making it possible to take pictures in farther ultra-telephoto ranges.
    Changes in zoom range when used with SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 (Model A022)
    Mounted on 35mm full-frame DSLR camera
    Without tele converter: 150-600mm
    With 1.4x tele converter: 210-840mm
    With 2.0x tele converter:300-1200mm
    
    Mounted on APS-C format DSLR camera
    Without tele converter: Approx. 233-930mm
    With 1.4x tele converter: Approx. 326-1302mm
    With 2.0x tele converter: Approx. 465-1860mm
    
    Changes in magnification ratio when used with SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 (Model A022)
    Maximum Magnification Ratio
    Without tele converter: 1:3.9
    With 1.4x tele converter: 1:2.8
    With 2.0x tele converter; 1:2
    
    Availability of AF when used with SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD G2 (Model A022) When using viewfinder
    With 1.4x tele converter: AF*1*2/MF
    With 2.0x tele converter: MF
    
    When using live view mode:
    With 1.4x tele converter: AF*2/MF
    With 2.0x tele converter:AF*2/MF
    
    
    *1 Autofocus functions normally on any camera capable of focusing automatically at an aperture of F/8 or smaller. Subjects with low contrast and/or luminosity values can sometimes result in out-of-focus images.
    ** Subjects with low contrast and/or luminosity values can sometimes result in out-of-focus images
12. Based on the rigorous quality standards worthy of the SP series, this new lens is manufactured with thorough attention to details
    For the SP series products in particular, Tamron has established rigorous design and quality standards. These standards apply to the optical design, mechanical design and the cosmetic appearance, as well as to such wide-ranging areas as the product’s robustness and improvements in various individual functions. Tamron thoroughly reviews of all of the design and manufacturing processes in order to offer products to customers with ever-higher precision and quality levels. For the SP 150-600mm G2 (Model A022), the optical design was refreshed, mechanical parts were improved and a new exterior design was adopted. To maximize the optical performance intrinsic to this product, Tamron improved the accuracy of component parts and increasing the precision of the overall zooming mechanism.

The new design adopted for the four SP series lenses already on the market is essentially the fusion of engineering and style, the pursuit of functional beauty and craftsmanship achieved by giving meticulous attention to minute details. Using metal as the exterior material creates a high-grade design based on the concept that emphasizes “Human Touch” characteristics, and significantly improves user-friendliness. The SP models feature a novel design for the switches, easy-to-read characters, an enlarged window over the distance scale and the adoption of organic forms easy for the photographer’s fingers to hold onto.

This design philosophy—the pursuit of functional beauty with a “Human Touch”—is applied even to the most minute details of the new SP 150-600mm G2 (Model A022) ultra-telephoto zoom. By using metal for the exterior material and adding new functions such as the FLEX ZOOM LOCK mechanism, the Model A022 achieves a size and weight that makes comfortable handheld shooting possible, with a slim and stylish appearance design to top it all off.