Sony has today announced the release of the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II (model – SEL2470GM2). This new lens is the worlds lightest f/2.8 standard zoom lens and uses Sony leading lens technology to deliver high resolution images and stunning bokeh. Like this lenses predecessor it will be part of the “G Master” series. The 24-70mm focal range is popular with all image creators due to its versatility and Sony is aiming this at photographers, videographers and the new wave of hybrid content creators.
The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 is available from adorama https://www.adorama.com/iso2470gm2.html
“Six years have passed since Sony released the first 24-70 mm F2.8 G Master and in that time, our customers’ needs have changed,” said Yann Salmon Legagneur, Director of Product Marketing, Digital Imaging, Sony Europe. “We are always listening to our community and have designed the new FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II around feedback from creators. Knowing the 24-70 mm focal length is extremely popular, it was imperative that we continue improving to bring our most advanced technology to such a critical lens in our customers’ kit. Today, we are thrilled to introduce the world’s smallest and lightest F2.8 standard zoom lens.”
Image quality from a zoom that rivals a prime
24-70mm f/2.8 lenses are a staple of any photographers kit bag and the new Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II offers the quality and versatility that photographers have come to expect in a new compact form that has been designed for both video and stills. The optical specialists at Sony have worked hard to create a lens with edge to edge sharpness even with the aperture wide open. To enable this quality Sony has had to develop a completely new design for the lens with five aspherical element, two of which feature high-precision XA (extreme aspherical) elements. The lens also includes two ED (extra-low dispersion) plus two Super ED glass elements. These elements are combined using an advanced floating focus mechanism, that helps to control chromatic aberration, astigmatism, distortion and coma to ensure that the camera is capable of capturing outstanding resolution throughout the image area at all zoom and aperture settings.
Shooting on challenging light conditions can cause many lenses issues, but here the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II is able to subdue flare and ghosting to ensure clarity within images. The Nano AR Coating II across the optics surface produces a uniform anti-reflecting coating. Inside the lens that 11-blade aperture unit enables you the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II to produces beautiful almost perfectly circular bokeh.
As well as standard zoom use the new 24-70 mm design delivers outstanding close-up performance with a minimum focusing distance of 8.25 inches (0.21 meters) at 24 mm and 12 inches (0.30 meters) at 70 mm, and with a maximum magnification of 0.32x.
Fast and Precise Autofocus
Utilising Sony’s XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors along with a floating focus mechanism and advanced lens control the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II offers fast and reliable focus even when shooting wildlife and action sports. In addition to the fast focus the lens supports up to 30fps continuous shooting for stills and 4K 120p video recording with autofocus.
Offering full AF tracking performance when shooting stills even with the aperture stopped down now makes it possible to to use a deeper depth of field when capturing fast moving subjects. This will help ensure you capture the shot you want in focus and is approximately twice as good as the previous model.
A better solution for creative filmmaking
With its constant F2.8 maximum aperture, astounding AF performance, versatile control, and solid reliability, the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II is designed for all types of video applications. The lens offers extremely quiet AF operation, thanks to the XD Linear Motors and a newly developed aperture unit. Using the latest lens technology, the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II reduces focus breathing, focus shift and axial shift when zooming for smooth video footage. This lens also supports the breathing compensation function provided in compatible Alpha series cameras.
As an added benefit for advanced video creation, the newest lens includes Linear Response MF (manual focus) that ensures high repeatability when focusing manually as the focus ring responds directly and repeatedly to subtle control. It also includes an aperture ring making manual aperture/iris control fast, direct, and easy. The dedicated iris ring enables click-less control to achieve smooth depth of field transitions.
Unrivaled Mobility
Designed to perfectly pair with Sony’s compact Alpha™ system E-mount cameras, the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II is the world’s smallest and lightest 24-70 mm F2.8 zoom in its class and offers unprecedented shooting flexibility and freedom in a wide range of situations. The FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II weighs just 24.6 ounces (695 grams), approximately 20% less (7 ounces) than the original 24-70 mm F2.8 G Master. The lens’ length has been reduced by 16 mm, and overall volume has been reduced by approximately 18%.
Reliability and Improved Control
The new FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II has been developed based on the feedback from professional users with the following major updates as outlined by Sony:
- Zoom smoothness switch to adjust zoom ring torque either Tight or Smooth
- A newly added aperture ring with click ON/OFF switch and iris lock switch
- Two customisable focus hold buttons
- The focus ring that responds directly and linearly to subtle control when focusing manually
- New lens hood design with opening to control circular polarising filters (dia. 82mm)
- The center of gravity back toward the mount for improved handling and operation
An updated dust and moisture resistant design provides extra reliability for outdoor use in challenging conditions. The buttons and switches are fitted with rubber gaskets, and a rubber ring seals the lens mount. The front lens element also features a fluorine coating that repels water, oil, and other contaminants, while making it easier to wipe off any contaminants or fingerprints that become attached to the lens surface.
Pricing and Availability
The Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II will be available in May 2022 at Sony’s authorised dealers, for an estimated retail price of £2,100 / €2,400 EUROS.
For detailed product information, please visit: FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II