To support its new A900 full-frame DSLR, which costs about $3000, Sony is also releasing new lenses, the super wide angle 16-35mm f/2.8 SAL1635ZA lens which will cost $1800, and the 5.7x super telephoto 70-400mm f/4-5.6 SAL70400G lens priced at $1500.
Sony says these are high performance lenses. The company describes the SAL1635ZA as constructed of 17 lens elements in 13 groups, including an extra-low dispersion (ED) for exceptional clarity and center-to-edge resolution and a super ED glass element for much stronger correction of chromatic aberration or discoloration. It also features three aspherical lens elements that provide greater brightness from center to the edge of the image field.
The SAL70400G lens meanwhile is constructed of 18 elements in 12 groups, and includes two extra-low dispersion glass lenses for high contrast, sharp details, and exceptional center-to-edge resolution with minimal chromatic aberration, according to Sony. A circular aperture with nine diaphragm blades is utilized to achieve natural, aesthetically-pleasing de-focusing effects.
Both new lenses will be available in January 2009.
[Via: Press Release]