(Updated with more images to whet your appetite until we see some test shots!) Sigma has just announced two new lenses, a redesigned 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM. The pricing and availability has not yet been made public, so for now these two images of the lenses will have to do. The 50 f/1.4 has been highly anticipated, and I'm sure there are many of you who are ready to add this lens to your collection.
"The 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary lens, designed specifically for APS-C DSLRs, is the successor to the 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 II DC OS HSM, which was launched in 2011. The smaller and lighter lens (15.2 ounces and 2.8x3.4 inches versus 17.3 ounces and 3x3.5 inches) now macro capabilities with a minimum focusing distance of 15.4 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3, as opposed to the lens’ earlier minimum focusing distance of 17.7 inches and max magnification ratio of 1:3.8. Its minimum working distance is 14.7 inches, which makes the lens suitable for close-up shooting with natural light, keeping shadows of the camera and lens out of the image.
"The 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 Macro has also been updated to incorporate Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements that have a high refractive index and can correct chromatic aberration at the telephoto-end. Moreover, aspherical lens elements, including double-sided aspherical lenses, will ensure a compact size and excellent correction of distortion.
"The new Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art has been reengineered and redesigned to set a new standard of performance in the Art line. A staple focal length, the new Sigma 50mm F1.4 Art is a pro level performer for full-frame DSLRs great for many different types of photography including portraits, landscapes, studio work and still-life. It has been updated to include SLD glass and optimized for rich peripheral brightness with improved large aperture performance by positioning wide elements into the front groups. Other updates include an optimized autofocus algorithm for smoother focusing and a floating focusing system to reduce lens movement while focusing. Under the Global Vision line, it features a new matte finish, improved AF on/off switch and guarantees every lens is tested with Sigma’s proprietary modulation transfer function (MTF) “A1” measuring system before being shipped. Now with 13 elements in 8 groups compared to the previous 8 elements in 6 groups, it also has improved close focusing at 15.7 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:5.6
"Both lenses incorporate Sigma’s Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) system to produce quiet, high-speed auto focus. In addition, they include Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting, and to ensure high-quality images throughout the entire zoom range. The 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM lenses are also compatible with Sigma’s USB dock and the company’s Mount Conversion Service."
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Can't wait to see if this 50mm is as amazing as the 35mm!!
Same here, I might replace my old canon 50mm f/1.4 if it's better
YAY! Was holding out buying Nikon's new 58mm Money Pit hoping Sigma would put out a new 50mm, Fingers crossed it is just as awesome as the 35!
It's great to see this third-party company make such a great turnaround.
I just bought the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 that's out now and would definitely trade up if it means better AF performance.
I've been thinking about replacing my canon nifty fifty! This might be the one!
nice, but I'm still waiting for the new version of sigma's 24-70
what's wrong with the current 24-70 2.8?
I think he's referring to the 24-70/2.0
that's right Keith R, hopefully one day soon, I'm sick of doing rentals...
stabilization...
The current one is not all that great. It is definitely overdue for an overhaul, hopefully an elegant one like their 35. I sincerely hope the F/2 business is merely internet noise. It needs to be a realistic size, price, and performance optic.
Many many things, but luckily there is an awesome version from Canon
Soft wide-open, soft corners, strong vignetting, focus is just ok, CA could be better, prone to flare, etc. It's definitely in need of a refresh.
How about some mirrorless lovin....
I still haven't justified the price difference between 1.8 and 1.4 glass. Maybe this will help me see things in a new light.
You see it one stop brighter...
Ha! Zing.
I like to see them making strides to make better and more sought after lenses.
I wish Sigma would come out with an affordable FX macro lens. I don't need f/2.8 for macro. It could be f/16-f/56 for all I care as long as it's sharp and under $400.
isn't there a 105mm EX macro? if you're coming from Nikon 105mm and 60mm AF-D are next to free 2nd hand.
yeah sure ... f56 would give you really sharp images ... lol
thanks for the laughter
Tokina's 100mm F2.8 Macro es excellent and just a bit over $400
Man I hope the 50 lives up to their 35. This is exciting!
Same!
I am pretty happy I got rid of Canon 50mm. This one is tempting, but is it still better to get 35mm (in addition to my 85)
I have a quick question, looking for a quick answer; why would anybody want to replace their Canon 50mm f/1.4 for this one? honest question, are there any advantages that have caught your eye & that I might've missed? I only bought my second 50mm a year ago as my older one was defective. thank you!
People switch to Sigma because, well, their new prime glass is just better than what's out there right now (sure you will find those who will argue that the Canon 35mm f/1.4 is just as good/better than Sigma, but across the board you'll find reviewers and testers think it's the best out there). Plus the glass looks and feels good. It's just a newer experience that's superior to what is out there.
I have owned the canon 35L and nikon 35 14G.. the Sigma is better,just be careful to test your copy when you buy,A.F needs to be M.A'd as well...
The canon 50 1.4 is overrated. It does produce a nice image...but the build quality is terrible and the focus ring is (never reported as) scratchy and loud for filmmakers. I've broken mine twice from short drops. I'm totally ready for this! I still can't allow myself to fork over $1600 for the 1.2 - although I'm sure its worth it. I've just got more important camera purchases lined up.
Well, bear in mind that the 50mm f/1.4 is a 20 yo project, and for a 20 yo lens is not that bad, at least optically.
The Canon 50mm f/1.4 is a very good lens and it still one of my favorite lenses, but it's a lens made 20 years ago, and compared to today standards it has various flaws, the AF motor is not that great, and the build quality is just fine, but for a $300 it's still a good deal.
Honestly if this new sigma 50mm is au pair with their 35mm, I'll probably replace my canon 50mm with that
It's cool to see Sigma upping their game but frankly I picked up an Nikon 1.4 50mm AF-D lens for $200 used....can't beat that. There may be some pixel-peepers that see a difference but the AF is fast on this and accurate as well.
Is there any news on the price for the 50 yet??
It was just announced yesterday... wait a month.
I'd conceed without hesitation that the Sigma 50mm 1.4 will be a solid piece of glass and I'm sure will perform well (I own the 35mm 1.4) however, how heavy is this going to be? That's a big consideration.
it weighs 470grams.. (1.04lbs)
i have been having front focus shift issue with the 35mm 1.4. Doing a google search, it seems i m not alone. And yet there are no valid solutions for it?
more details of what i m hitting here: http://inileyblog.blogspot.hk/2014/01/sigma35mm.html
Looks like I should cancel my purchase of the old sigma 85mm and cross my fingers that they'll announce a new version by summer.
Exactly my thoughts, Marius.