Sigma sent out word this morning that the delayed 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM lens slated originally for release in February 2013 will finally be coming to market in early May for $3,599. Released along with that lens is the much anticipated USB Dock that can be used to fine tune new Sigma lenses will be available $59.
In case you were unfamiliar with the new Sports 120-300mm lens, it features redesigned mechanics and performance, an update from its predecessor released in February 2011. With a maximum focal length of 300mm and a wide-open aperture of F2.8, this lens eases difficult shooting conditions. It is dust and moisture resistant, and allows users to switch between two custom settings created via the USB dock. The 120-300mm lens has been redesigned and quality-control tested with Sigma’s proprietary modulation transfer function (MTF) “A1” measuring system as part of Sigma’s new Global Vision category restructuring. Under the new Sports category, the lens also has the manufacturing year stamped on the barrel.
The Sigma USB (also to be released in early May) dock works in conjunction with Sigma Optimization Pro software to connect a photographer’s lens to their personal computer and the internet to update firmware and other parameters. The AF speed, focus limiter and OS function are also customizable for Sports lenses (like the 120-300mm). Below is a video demonstration of the Sigma Optimization Pro software:
https://vimeo.com/64665246
This looks really great. Nikon only offers 1 AF fine tune setting per lens; Canon offers 2 I believe.
But Sigma allowing you to tune by focus distance (and focal length) is really impressive and important. Nikon has been taking measures to make you send your camera to them for service; Sigma is going the opposite way and letting you do it yourself. Very nice.
Here's hoping it's finally actually 300mm at the long end.
Can someone give us the dummy version of why all of the adjustments are necessary?
since you are most likely using this with the big camera manufacturers (Canon, Nikon, Sony),
1. Camera manufacturers update firmware, and Sigma has no say.
2. Bugs with lens (exif data,aperture control, etc.)
3. Plug it in to make adjustments to fix bugs
Also, fix back focusing issues
Sigma are really stepping up their game, a good contender in price and quality to the camera brand lenses.
Is there a documented process with which one can test a lens and find out which parameters would work best? I think there are 63759030914653054346432641 (41**16) possibilities of adjustement just for the 17-70.