Sigma News (Page 9)

From Sigma:

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We would like to announce an update in the lens firmware of the 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports for CANON which can be flashed using the SIGMA Optimization Pro, the dedicated software for the SIGMA USB DOCK.

The latest firmware enables the lens to offer improved precision in its focusing performance when the AF frames in peripheral areas in the viewfinder are selected.

For those customers who own the following product, please update the firmware of the lens via the SIGMA Optimization Pro software.

• 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM | Sports CANON

Please update the SIGMA Optimization Pro to Ver. 1.2 before operating any lens firmware update.

You can download the latest version of SIGMA Optimization Pro from the following page:
http://www.sigma-global.com/download/

We appreciate your consistent support for our company and products.

B&H has the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports Lens available for preorder.

From Sigma:

SIGMA WR PROTECTOR, SIGMA PROTECTOR, SIGMA WR UV FILTER and SIGMA WR CIRCULAR PL FILTER are scheduled to start the shipment towards the end of this month.

SIGMA WR* FILTER

• SIGMA WR PROTECTOR (Water-repellent, Antistatic type)
• SIGMA WR UV FILTER (UV Water-repellent, Antistatic type)
• SIGMA WR CIRCULAR PL FILTER (PL Water-repellent, Antistatic type)

SIGMA FILTER

• SIGMA PROTECTOR (Normal type)

*WR=Water Repellent

B&H has the Sigma WR Protector and Sigma Protector filters available for preorder.

From Sigma:

The Sigma 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary Lenses for Canon, Nikon and Sigma are scheduled to start shipping towards the end of this month.

B&H has the Sigma 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM Contemporary available for preorder.

Sigma Corporation would like to announce that there are two types of new tele converters to be released on October 24th, 2014. Please note that the SIGMA 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM | Sports requires an update to the firmware to make it compatible with the SIGMA TELE CONVERTER TC-1401 and SIGMA TELE CONVERTER TC-2001.

For those who own the SIGMA 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM | Sports and considering using it with either the SIGMA TELE CONVERTER TC-1401 or SIGMA TELE CONVERTER TC-2001, please follow the steps below to update the firmware of the lens.

Please be advised that the updated version of firmware will make it compatible with the new tele converters, however it will also make it incompatible with conventional APO TELE CONVERTER 1.4x EX DG and APO TELE CONVERTER 2x EX DG. For further information, please contact your nearest authorized subsidiary / distributor of SIGMA.

For customers who own the SIGMA USB DOCK
Please start up the SIGMA Optimization Pro software and update the firmware of the SIGMA USB DOCK. There will be the optimized firmware compatible with the new tele converters (Sigma: Ver. 1.01, Nikon: Ver. 1.02, Canon: Ver. 1.03), currently scheduled for release on October 24th.

For customers who do not own SIGMA USB DOCK
We are going to start the service for update on October 27th. Please contact your nearest authorized subsidiary / distributor of SIGMA.

B&H carries the Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Sports lens and USB Dock. B&H also has the Sigma TC-1401 1.4x and TC-2001 2x teleconverters available for preorder.

From Sigma:

Sigma USB Dock v.1.02 Firmware Changes

Compatible with SIGMA 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM S014 and 18-300mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM C014.

* If SIGMA Optimization Pro is Ver. 1.2, it will display the message for firmware update when you start up the software. Please follow the indicated steps and update the firmware of SIGMA USB DOCK accordingly.
* If SIGMA Optimization Pro is Ver. 1.1 or earlier, please firstly update the version of the software to Ver. 1.2.

Download
Sigma USB Dock v.1.02 Firmware

B&H carries the Sigma USB Dock and has the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports and 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM lenses available for preorder.

Sigma just released firmware updates for the following lenses:

• 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM
• 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM
• 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM

Firmware Modifications (applicable to all)

• Autofocus is supported at any aperture value when used with the Canon Digital Cinema Camera EOS C100.

  Note: Before upgrading the firmware of 30mm F1.4 DC HSM A013, please first update your SIGMA Optimization Pro to Ver1.2.0.

Download the Sigma Firmware Updates.

B&H carries the Sigma 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM, 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM and 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM lenses and the Sigma USB dock.

From Sigma:

Hyper-telephoto zoom lenses added to both Sports and Contemporary Global Vision lines

RONKONKOMA, N.Y — September 12, 2014 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, has announced two new 150-600mm F/5-6.3 DG OS HSM high-performance, hyper-telephoto zoom lenses that celebrate significant optical and build advancements. The two lens designs vary in size and use, and add to the company’s impressive roster of Contemporary and Sports lenses in the Global Vision lineup.

The 150-600mm F/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports delivers enhanced, professional-grade optics and greater durability for challenging, high-action photographic situations. The 150-600mm F/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary is a versatile lens that offers similar performance in a more compact and portable design. Pricing and availability of these lenses are not yet available.

Both versions of the 150-600mm F/5-6.3 DG OS HSM feature dust and splash-proof features, as well as new water and oil-repellent coating on the front and rear lenses. They boast an updated Optical Stabilizer (OS) that features an accelerometer for improved vertical and horizontal panning, essential for bird, wildlife and motor sports photography. Two new switches were added for ease-of-use, including a new zoom lock switch capable of locking at any focal distance and a Manual Override (MO) switch for improved control of focusing performance. An enhanced auto focus (AF) algorithm and Hyper Sonic Motor ensure quiet and fast AF. The lenses are compatible with Sigma’s newly announced lineup of Global Vision teleconverters, which are effective up to F/8.

“The Global Vision Art, Sports and Contemporary lines were developed to help photographers identify lenses that are best suited to their specific photography and these two lenses are perfect examples of that intent,” Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “While they share a focal length and many outstanding features, these lenses are designed with different photographers in mind. Both high-performance lenses, one is for the professional-grade action shooter; the other for photographers looking for high performance and portability.”

The 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports offers the highest level of performance and durability with a splash and dust proof construction, and features dimensions of 4.8 inches by 11.4 inches, with a weight of 100.9 ounces. It contains 24 lens elements in 16 groups – including two FLD and three SLD glass elements – with a minimum aperture of F/22 and minimum focusing distance of 102.4 inches. Its maximum magnification ratio is also 1:5. The Sports lens will be available in Sigma, Canon and Nikon mounts.

The 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary lens is the first hyper-telephoto zoom lens from the Global Vision Contemporary line, and will enable easy handling with a smaller build than its Sports counterpart. It is equipped with a splash and dust proof mount, and while the weight of the lens is still to be determined, its dimensions will be 4.1 inches by 10.2 inches. The lens will feature 20 elements in 14 groups – including one FLD and three SLD glass elements – with a minimum aperture of F/22 and minimum focusing distance of 110.2 inches. Its maximum magnification ratio is 1:5. It will be available in Sigma, Canon, Nikon and Sony mounts.

All of Sigma’s Global Vision lenses are compatible with the company’s USB dock and Mount Conversion Service, and undergo individual testing before being shipped. Using the USB Dock allows for advanced customization of AF speed, OS viewing modes, focus limiter and firmware updates. Every Sigma Global Vision lens is tested with Sigma’s proprietary “A1” MTF measuring system prior to shipping to ensure optimal performance and image quality.

The company will be exhibiting at the 2014 Photokina in Cologne, Germany, later this month. The latest lenses from the Global Vision lineup will be on display at the event and attendees are invited to stop by booth #B20/C29 in Hall 4.2.

Preorder Opportunities:

Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sports Lens - B&H
Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary Lens - B&H

From Sigma:

New range in Sigma’s lineup offers optimized optics and stabilization with optional, add-on close-up lens for macro-zoom capability

RONKONKOMA, N.Y — September 12, 2014 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, is adding a new lens to its Global Vision Contemporary category with today’s announcement of the 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM. The lens will become available in October for the street price of $579.00.

Designed exclusively for APS-C camera sensors, the new 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM features a 16.6x high-ratio zoom lens which equates to a 27-450mm zoom range. It incorporates four “F” Low Dispersion (FLD) glass elements, which have performance equal to flourite, in addition to one Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass element. This enables the lens to minimize the chromatic aberration, especially toward the telephoto-end, and provide clear image quality with high color fidelity. Also, this lens comes with a newly developed optical stabilization (OS) system, ensuring better compensation.

“We expect the 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM to be yet another standout in our Global Vision lineup, and a perfect option for anyone looking to carry minimal equipment and still be able to capture breathtaking images” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “It will be a compact and affordable, high-performance, all-in-one lens that offers wide-angle to telephoto versatility and the very unique macro-zoom capability for close-ups. It’s perfect for all photographic needs – especially for those purchasing this product as their first time interchangeable lens.”

The lens offers a minimum focusing distance of 15 inches, with a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3. To enhance the macro capabilities of the lens, Sigma Corporation has also designed a dedicated close-up AML72-01 lens that pairs with the 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 to offer a maximum magnification ratio 1:2 and changeable angles of view. Even when this close-up lens is attached, the image taken at maximum magnification ratio, at 300mm, infinity, shows very little difference in modulation transfer function (MTF). This close-up lens will be sold separately for $55 and will also be available in October.

The 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM incorporates a bigger and newly developed Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) that ensures high speed and quiet AF. Additionally the Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting, to provide the user with sharp and high contrast images.

The lens will be available in Sigma, Nikon, Canon, Pentax and Sony mounts; Pentax and Sony mounts will not offer OS.

The 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM is compatible with Sigma’s USB dock, allowing photographers to update the lens’ firmware and change focus parameters using Sigma's Optimization Pro software. It is also compatible with Sigma’s Mount Conversion Service. Sigma remains one of the very few manufacturers whose products are solely made in Japan. Moreover, all products, including the 18-300mm F/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM was designed to surpass the required quality inspection of every Global Vision lens with Sigma’s own modulation transfer function (MTF) “A1” measuring system to create a new optical standard to align with the high-spec cameras on today’s market.

The company will be exhibiting at the 2014 Photokina in Cologne, Germany, later this month. The latest lenses from the Global Vision lineup will be on display at the event and attendees are invited to stop by booth #B20/C29 in Hall 4.2.

B&H has the Sigma 18-300mm f/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO HSM Contemporary available for preorder.

From Sigma:

New filters and teleconverters help photographers maximize optical performance and use of lenses

RONKONKOMA, N.Y— September 12, 2014 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, today announced its first line of Global Vision accessories.

Building on the exceptional quality and sleek design of Sigma’s popular Global Vision lenses, the company will now offer two new teleconverters offering magnifications of 1.4x and 2x, respectively, and four new lens filter types, including three water repellent (WR) models.

“The announcement of these new accessories reaffirms our commitment to providing photographers with the highest quality tools they need to experience the amazing photographic details of our lenses,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America.

Teleconverters: TC-1401 and TC-2001

The teleconverters TC-1401 and TC-2001 are developed as dedicated attachments for Sigma Global Vision lenses. By mounting it in between a telephoto lens and a camera, the TC-1401 and TC-2001 will magnify a lens’ focal length by 1.4 and 2 times, respectively. Both models now incorporate Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass elements, the TC-1401 with 1 and the TC-2001 with 2 SLD elements, which offer excellent aberration correction and maintain the exceptional image quality of the original lens. The TC-1401 will be sold for the street price of $349, and the TC-2001 will be sold for $399. Availability is still yet to be announced for both teleconverters.

The teleconverters come packed with additional special features – its power distribution is designed for Sigma lenses of large diameter. Without affecting the lens performance, these options offer stable image quality through the zoom at every focal length and on the corners of the frame. Additionally, the tele converters are designed for high durability – being both dust and splash-proof. These new teleconverters are capable of shooting effective AF at F8, if the camera can do so.

Filter lineups: WR Protector, Protector, WR UV Filter, WR Circular PL Filter

With the new Global Vision lens filters, Sigma will now offer 13 filter size options in four new lineups. These filters offer several new features that enable photographers to maximize the optical performance of Sigma’s lenses in various conditions. The filters will be available for purchase in October.

These filters have a new design that suits the high optical performance of all new Global Vision products to prevent vignetting or the decrease in peripheral light quantities especially when the thinner wide type filters are used with Sigma lenses. By incorporating Sigma’s Super Multi-Layer Coating, the filter reduces flare and hosting; black rimmed glass eliminates unnecessary internal reflections, and provides high performance for both digital cameras and film cameras. In addition, to ensure versatility, Sigma’s WR filters feature excellent water and oil repellent as well as an antistatic function, and the two types of “Protector” can protect the lens surface effectively.

The four line ups include:

• WR Protector (Water-repellent, antistatic type) and Protector (normal type): The protector is developed to protect the lens surface from dirt and dust as well as scratches. It is an ideal filter for regular use as it is completely colorless so it does not affect color reproduction.
• WR UV Filter (UV water-repellent, antistatic type): UV filter prevents the bluish tone that generates by absorbing ultraviolet rays. It is effective in most situations, such as landscape, portrait and general photography on a sunny day.
• WR Circular PL Filter (PL water-repellent, antistatic type): Circular PL filter removes the reflection of water surface and glass windows, and increases the contrast in landscape photography.

The company will be exhibiting at 2014 Photokina in Cologne, Germany, where its Global Vision lenses will be on display. Attendees are invited to stop by booth #B20/C29 in Hall 4.2.

Preorder Opportunties:

Sigma TC-1401 Teleconverter - B&H
Sigma TC-2001 Teleconverter - B&H

From Sigma:

Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Firmware v1.02

Autofocus is supported at any aperture value when used with the Canon Digital Cinema Camera EOS C100.

Note: Before upgrading the firmware of 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM A013, please first update your SIGMA Optimization Pro to Ver1.2.0.

Download the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art Firmware v1.02.

B&H carries the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lens.

From Sigma:

Thank you for your purchasing and using our products.

We are pleased to announce the availability of the update of SIGMA Optimization Pro and it is now available for download. Since the version under SIGMA Optimization Pro 1.2.0 does not recognize 50mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art, we have upgraded it to adapt the new 50mm F1.4 DG HSM | Art.

Please update your SIGMA Optimization Pro 1.2.0 to latest version.

http://www.sigma-global.com/download/en/

We appreciate your continuing support for our company and products.

B&H carries the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens.

From JerseyShooter's Blog:

"Once in a while, when you are ready to resign things to being just the way they are and give up, the planets align, the clouds part, and the gods smile down, making everything right again. Well, perhaps I’m exaggerating a bit. However, my initial testing of the new firmware Version 1.01 for the Canon mount Sigma 120-300 f2.8 “Sports” lens is complete and things are looking good.

To briefly recap, my issue with the lens and original Version 1.00 firmware was basically two-fold. First, despite all sixteen adjustable focus points available in the Sigma Optimization Pro software being perfectly calibrated using the USB dock, the lens would badly front-focus in between the 200mm and 300mm settings. Second, the lens required completely different Optimization Pro focus parameter settings for the 1D Mark III and 1D Mark IV compared to Canon’s other bodies like the 7D, 5D Mark II and 50D. This meant my lens was either “set up” to work with my 1D bodies, or my other bodies, but never ALL my camera bodies at once. I began my testing with a very methodical approach. I needed to find out first if the new firmware fixed the issue of the different parameter requirements for the different bodies. I also wanted to get a baseline to see how different my new Optimization Pro setting would be from my old ones, and I wanted to do it for all my different camera models."

From the looks of post, JerseyShooter is quite impressed by the new firmware. Check out his full post for all the details.

From Sigma:

SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM F/SIGMA and F/NIKON are scheduled to start the shipment towards the end of this month.

B&H has the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art lens available for preorder.

From Sigma:

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce that the “SIGMA Mount Conversion Service” and “SIGMA 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM/ SIGMA 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO HSM” won TIPA Awards 2014.

SIGMA Mount Conversion Service

Name of Award: TIPA Awards 2014 Best Photo Service

While photographers might be attracted to a new format or different brand camera, the ownership and investment in legacy lenses of a specific mount may stop them from exploring new options for their image making. The SIGMA Mount Conversion Service offers the opportunity to change the mount on a specific set of SIGMA brand lenses, regardless of the mount, to Canon, Nikon, Sony, Pentax, Micro Four thirds and Sony E-mount. Pricing depends on the type and focal length of the original lens. Service details are handled by the local SIGMA representative or distributor within each country, worldwide, and takes from two to four weeks to complete.

SIGMA 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM/ SIGMA 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO HSM

Name of Award: TIPA Awards 2014 Best Entry Level DSLR Lens

The amazingly compact (2.8 x 3.4 inches) and affordable 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM (27-300mm equivalent) lens is exclusively for APS-C sized sensors. It is smaller and lighter than the previous version and offers a closer focusing distance to boot. It also has a newly incorporated SLD glass element plus 3 aspheric elements among its 16 elements, 13 groups construction. The lens incorporates an optical stabilizer (OS) system for those cameras that do not have OS built-in, with automatic panning detection to shift the OS to one axis. It has a close focusing range of about 1.5 feet throughout the focal length range, making it extremely versatile for close-up photography.

Note: Sigma also received a "Best Design" award for its dp Quattro camera lineup.

B&H carries the Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM lens.

From Sigma:

Sigma Releases Optimization Pro v1.2.0 Update

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We are pleased to announce the availability of the new “SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver1.2.0 for Windows” and “SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver1.2.0 for Macintosh”, the dedicated software for the SIGMA USB DOCK which allows customers to update the lens firmware of new product lines, as well as to customize settings such as AF and focusing position.

This download service is for SIGMA USB DOCK Users who are using our interchangeable lenses from 3 product lines (Contemporary, Art, Sports). As a SIGMA USB DOCK user, please be sure to update to SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver1.2.0, before carrying out any lens firmware updates.

Benefits of the SIGMA Optimization Pro software update:

SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver1.2.0 for Windows & Macintosh

• New switch feature for Full-time MF setting.

* This customization of Full-time MF function is only available for the SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM A014.
* The Full-time MF function will be available after the SIGMA USB DOCK firmware is updated to Ver1.01 or above.
* The function limits will vary from on the camera you use.

Download: SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver1.2.0

SIGMA USB DOCK Firmware Update

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We are pleased to inform you the SIGMA USB DOCK Firmware Update is now available.

This firmware update allows you to use the SIGMA USB DOCK with the SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM A014. If you have the products mentioned below, please start up SIGMA Optimization Pro and then operate lens firmware update.

Benefits of this firmware update

• It will be compatible with SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM A014.

Applicable products

• SIGMA USB DOCK SIGMA
• SIGMA USB DOCK CANON
• SIGMA USB DOCK NIKON

* Please update SIGMA Optimization Pro to Ver1.2.0 in addition to updating the SIGMA USB DOCK Firmware to Ver1.01 before using it with SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM.

In order to update the USB Dock firmware, please connect the device to your computer using the USB cable and then open Sigma Optimization Pro.

B&H carries the Sigma USB Dock and has the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens available for preorder.

Do you want a huge focal range with a wide, f/2.8 constant maximum aperture? Don't feel like spending $25,999.00 on a new lens?

Well, you're in luck! LensAuthority (the outlet for LensRentals' used inventory) has a used Sigma 200-500mm f/2.8 EX DG APO Lens for Canon (affectionately named "Sigzilla") available for more than $11,000 off the retail price – now just $14,995.00.

The condition of the 34.54 lb behemoth is rated at 9.5 out of 10. The LensRentals logo has been removed since this product photo was taken.

From Sigma:

New, prime Art lens on US shelves for $949 in late April

RONKONKOMA– April 11, 2014 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, is pleased to announce that the newest addition to its Global Vision Art camera lens lineup, the 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art, will be available late April for the street price of $949.

The much anticipated 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art is a pro-level performer for full-frame DSLRs and is ideal for many types of videography and photography, including portraits, landscapes, studio work and still-life. It has been redesigned and re-engineered with SLD glass and has been optimized for rich peripheral brightness, with improved large aperture performance by positioning wide elements into the front groups.

Other updates to this new lens 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, an updated AF algorithm and every lens undergoes Sigma’s proprietary modulation transfer function (MTF) “A1” testing before being shipped. It has 13 elements in eight groups, compared to the previous eight elements in six groups, and it also has improved close focusing at 15.7 inches and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:5.6.

“Our Art lenses, such as the 35mm F1.4, 24-105mm F4 and 18-35mm F1.8 have been incredibly well received to date, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the excitement around the news of this upgraded 50mm F1.4,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “Clearly, the industry is hungry for reasonably priced, powerful, high-quality, multi-purpose lenses – and they’ve seen the image quality that’s being produced by our new Global Vision lenses. There are no sacrifices with these products, and the new 50mm F1.4 is sure to be another star in our lineup.”

The 50mm F1.4 was first announced at the Consumer Electronics Show this year. It incorporates Sigma’s Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) system to produce quiet, high-speed auto focus. In addition, it includes Super Multi-Layer Coating to reduce flare and ghosting, and to ensure the highest-quality images. The 50mm F1.4 DG HSM lens is also compatible with Sigma’s USB dock and the company’s Mount Conversion Service.

The Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG will be available in Sigma, Sony (D), Nikon (D), and Canon mounts.

B&H has the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens available for preorder. I submitted my preorder at 2:15am CDT. ;-) [Sean]

From Sigma:

Along with the launch of SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM, the Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce that we are going to update SIGMA Optimization Pro very shortly.

The version will be 1.2.0, and it will offer following additional customization when it is used with the SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM.

[Setting Full-time MF Function]

It is possible to select the Full-time MF Function ON / OFF.

1. Full-time MF will be in operation when it focused in the Single Shot AF mode.
2. Regardless of the AF modes of the camera, Full-time MF is activated by rotating the focus ring if auto focusing in operation.
3. It is possible to adjust the timing to operate Full-time MF function.

* This customization of Full-time MF function is only available for the SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG HSM.
* There may be limitations in the function depending on cameras.

Expected Date of Service:
From April 18, 2014

SIGMA Optimization Pro Download

B&H has the Sigma 50mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens available for preorder. They also carry the Sigma USB Dock (review).

From Sigma USA:

LAS VEGAS– Feb. 27, 2014 – Sigma Corporation of America, a leading researcher, developer, manufacturer and service provider of some of the world's most impressive lines of lenses, cameras and flashes, will be exhibiting at the Wedding & Portrait Photography International Conference + Expo (WPPI) at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas at booth 521 from March 3-5.

At the booth, Sigma will be showcasing its entire camera and lens product lineup, including several recently announced lenses and accessories from the manufacture’s Global Vision Line like the improved and redesigned 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM lenses, as well as the 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM, 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | ART lenses and USB Dock.

“We look forward to the opportunity every year to interact with wedding and portraiture shooters at WPPI,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “Attendees who stop by our booth will get a first look at some of our new Global Vision products like the 50mm F1.4 and 24-105mm F4 lenses, and learn how Sigma is bringing the most innovative gear to the market.”

Sigma is also pleased to be sponsoring the WPPI University event taking place on Friday, February 28 and Saturday, March 1. Two of Sigma’s Pro Photographers, Lindsay Adler and Jennifer Rozenbaum, will share their photography tips and tricks during a speaking session on Friday afternoon, and event attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in our shooting station during the hands-on workshops, and interact and work with Lindsay and Jennifer on their photography skills.

Sigma Corporation of America’s WPPI activities will include:

• WPPI In-Show Lens Giveaway: Enter for a chance to win one of four different lenses throughout the show. Sigma fans that visit the booth and participate in the Sigma Shooting studio each day will be entered for a chance to win a different lens each day of the show, including either the 85mm 1.4 EX DG HSM, 35mm 1.4 DG HSM Art, 24-105mm f4 DG HSM OS Art or 50mm 1.4 EX DG HSM. Attendees must participate at the shooting station each day for a chance to win, and one winner will be chosen randomly each day. Three lenses will be given away, one each day, plus a grand finale winner on the last day. Stop by the booth to learn which lens is being given away each day.
• WPPI Online Lens Giveaways: For Sigma fans that are unable to attend the show, Sigma will be offering them a chance to win a different lens each day by entering online. Fans can enter by submitting their best wedding and/or portrait photos to Sigma’s Facebook page using the hashtag #WinSigma or on Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #WinSigma. The hashtag must be used in order to account for all entries, and a winner will be judged and selected for each day of the show plus a grand finale winner. Submission period begins March 3 9am PST and end March 5 4pm PST. Winner names will be announced March 21, 2014. For more information, visit our social channels or website each day to see which lens will be given away!

B&H carries Sigma lenses.

A little more than a year ago, Sigma gave us our first glimpse of their Aizu Manufacturing Facility.

This time, they bring us the appropriately titled, "Sigma Aizu, Chaper II."