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Sony Announces 28-70mm f2-GB Master
20 November 2024
Sony has introduced its 28-70mm f2-GB Master, the first Sony zoom lens with a constant f2 aperture in the 77-lens Sony E-Mount lineup. The full-frame lens remains compact, lightweight and well-balanced.
"Our goal with the 28-70mm f2-GB Master was to create a high-performing zoom lens that could be a strong single lens alternative to multiple primes," said Yang Cheng, Sony vice president of imaging solutions. "We prioritized a lightweight design during the engineering process as we knew that was a critical factor for real-life, practical use. And in a manner that only Sony can do, we were able to deliver a small, standard f2 zoom lens that does not sacrifice image quality. We're proud to add this to our G Master series and believe it is one of the most innovative lenses ever offered to professionals."
HIGHLIGHTS
Highlights of the 28-70mm include:
- Full-frame coverage
- Apertures: f2 to f22
- Four XD linear AF motors with floating focus
- Minimum Focus: 1.2 feet throughout zoom range
- Aperture De-Click and Lock switches
- Zoom smoothness switch
- XA and Super ED elements
- Nano AR Coating II and Fluorine coating
- Dust and moisture-resistant construction
- Rounded 11-blade diaphragm
SPECIFICATIONS
Specifications for the 28-70mm include:
SONY 28-70mm f2-GB MASTER SPECIFICATIONS Mount Sony E Focal Length 28mm to 70mm Aperture f2 to f22 Minimum Focus 1.2 feet Magnification 0.23x Optical Design 20 elements in 14 groups XA and Super ED elements Autofocus Yes Image Stabilization No Filter Thread 86mm Dimensions 3.7 x 5.5 inches Weight 2.0 lbs. PRICE, AVAILABILITY
Sony said the 28-70mm f2-GB Master will be available in December for $2,899.99. Adorama and B&H are now accepting pre-orders.
Sony Announces 28-70mm f2-GB Master
The Unique Combination of a Versatile Focal Range, Large f2 Aperture and Compact Form Factor
SAN DIEGO, Calif. -- Sony Electronics Inc. has introduced the 28-70mm f2-GB Master, the first Sony zoom lens with a constant f2 aperture and 77th lens in the Sony E-Mount lineup. This full-frame lens offers a versatile focal range from 28mm to 70mm while delivering prime-like bokeh with its constant f2 aperture. Despite its wide aperture and zoom range, the 28-70mm f2-GB Master remains compact, lightweight and well-balanced, making it ideal for both photography and video applications. This combination of zoom range, large aperture and compact design makes this an innovative and versatile lens for portrait, sports, wedding, event and video professionals.
"Our goal with the 28-70mm f2-GB Master was to create a high-performing zoom lens that could be a strong single lens alternative to multiple primes," said Yang Cheng, Vice President of Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. "We prioritized a lightweight design during the engineering process as we knew that was a critical factor for real-life, practical use. And in a manner that only Sony can do, we were able to deliver a small, standard f2 zoom lens that does not sacrifice image quality. We're proud to add this to our G Master series and believe it is one of the most innovative lenses ever offered to professionals."
Sharp Imagery and Beautiful Bokeh
The 28-70mm f2-GB Master produces extremely sharp corner-to-corner results throughout the entire zoom range, even while shooting wide open at f2. The high-resolution output is made possible by the three XA (extreme aspherical) elements and three aspherical elements built within the lens that minimize aberrations. The lens also features a floating focusing system that helps maintain internal stability. This focusing mechanism enables an impressive minimum focusing distance of up to 14.8 inches (0.38m) throughout the entire zoom range.
Staying true to the G Master lens lineage, the lens' aperture up to f2 produces extraordinary bokeh, ideal for creating images that showcase a shallow depth of field. The 28-70mm f2 a.m.plifies the G Master bokeh standards through a newly designed 11-blade circular aperture unit. Chromatic aberrations, which cause color fringing within photos, are effectively minimized with three Super ED (extra-low dispersion) elements and one ED element built within the lens. Additionally, Sony's Nano AR Coating II reduces flare and internal reflections, ensuring clear images, even when strong light sources are present in the frame.
Compact, Lightweight Design Without Compromising Quality
The 28-70mm f2-GB Master is one of the most advanced mirrorless camera lenses manufactured with a total 20 different lens elements arranged within 14 internal groups. Despite the advanced optical design, the lens remains compact at 3.6x5.5 inches (92.9x139.8mm) and lightweight at approximately 32.3 ounces (918g). The combination of imaging performance and a compact form factor offers an innovative solution that meets the demands of industry professionals.
Precise Autofocus Tracking with Instant Response
Reliable and responsive autofocus is delivered through the lens' four XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors powered by advanced control algorithms. This smooth performance system provides accurate and quick focus tracking, often essential in many professional use cases like weddings and sports. This lens is fully compatible with Sony's Alpha 9 III's high-speed continuous shooting capabilities of up to 120 frames per second with AF/AE (autofocus/autoexposure) tracking, even while zooming.
Designed for High-Performance Video Shooting
Along with its f2 aperture, the zoom range of the 28-70mm G Master provides a versatile video option that can cover standard field-of-view shots and tighter compositions up to 70mm. This lens minimizes focus breathing through its build and compatibility with the Breathing Compensation feature on various Alpha bodies. Its high autofocus performance ensures reliable focus even when recording in high frame rates up to 4K 120p/FHD 240p. Additionally, the XD linear motors and newly developed aperture unit operates silently, preventing any lens noise from being captured during filming.
The lens is ideal for gimbal use with a minimal zoom extension of approximately .68 inches. The compact form factor and short external zoom helps maintain gimbal balance, even at varying focal lengths.
Operability and Reliability for Versatile Control
Key control features include Linear Response MF for intuitive manual focusing, adjustable zoom ring torque and an aperture ring with a click ON/OFF switch. The lens also offers two customizable focus hold buttons, an iris lock switch and an AF/MF switch. The 28-70mm f2-GB Master has an 86mm filter diameter and a convenient window on the lens hood for variable filter adjustments.
For durability, all buttons and switches are sealed with silicone gaskets and critical areas are designed to resist dust and moisture. This ensures reliability, even while using in challenging outdoor environments. Additionally, a fluorine coating on the front element repels contaminants for easy cleaning.
Pricing and Availability
The 28-70mm f2-GB Master will be available in December 2024 for approximately $2,899.99 and $3,999.99 CAD. It will be sold at a variety of Sony's authorized dealers throughout North America.