Sigma News (Page 10)

From Sigma:

Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM for Sigma, Canon and Nikon fittings are scheduled to start the shipment towards the end of this month.

B&H has the Sigma 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM lens available for preorder.

From Sigma:

Sigma Corporation of America to Release Two MTF Charts for Measurement of Lenses

Company releases the data of Geometric and Diffraction MTF charts for Global Vision Lenses

RONKONKOMA, N.Y., — February 3, 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 that the company will now release a Geometrical MTF (Modulation Transfer Function) chart in addition to a Diffraction MTF chart when measuring the performance of all new Global Vision lenses.

MTF charts are important because they help photographers better understand the optical quality of lenses. Sigma has traditionally released Diffraction MTF data because it takes the diffraction quality of light into consideration, which can dramatically affect the data outcome. Diffracted light exists at every aperture, giving photographers a more accurate measurement of how the lens will perform in real life. Although Geometric MTF data is easier to measure and calculate since it does not consider the diffraction quality of light, it tends to show higher values in the graph and less defined results.

“As a family-owned organization, we hold ourselves and the products we design to a very high standard,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “Our customer’s expect high quality products and by sharing both MTF charts for all our new lenses, we are able to help guide them in making the most informed purchase decisions based on how our lenses will perform in actual photography situations.”

As a leader in technology and innovation, Sigma Corporation is committed to showing the true value and quality standards of all Sigma Global Vision lenses. Every lens is tested with Sigma’s proprietary modulation transfer function (MTF) “A1” measuring system before being shipped from the factory in Japan. By making both MTF charts available, Sigma is providing its customers with accurate measurements of its lenses and giving photographers a chance to see the full potential of Sigma’s lenses.

B&H carries Sigma lenses.

From Sigma:

The SIGMA 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM F/SIGMA with F/NIKON fittings are scheduled to scheduled to start shipping towards the end of this month.

B&H has the Sigma 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM lens for Nikon available for preorder.

From Sigma USA:

LAS VEGAS– Jan. 6, 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 the launch of two new Global Vision lenses from the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

The improved and redesigned 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 DC Macro OS HSM and 50mm F1.4 DG HSM lenses are the latest additions to Sigma’s Global Vision lineup. Both lenses’ availability and pricing have yet to be announced.

“These two lenses are among our most popular, and we’re pleased to reintroduce these products by adding them to our Global Vision lineup,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “The 18-200mm, in particular, is an exciting new lens as it now has macro functionality, updated optics and a Global Vision design, making it a fantastic alternative to the kit lens. As has been the case with our recent Global Vision lenses, we expect an array of photographers to gravitate to their technically advanced features and slick new look.”

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.

Other recently announced lenses and accessories such as the 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM, 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | ART and USB Dock will be on display at Sigma’s CES booth. Visit Sigma at CES 2014 at booth 10431in Central Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center from Jan. 7 to 10.

From Sigma:

Thank you very much for purchasing and using Sigma products.

We have found that the current firmware of our Nikon fitting interchangeable lenses may not work properly with the Nikon Df camera's OS and Auto Focus functions. This is similar to the phenomena described in "Information Regarding the Nikon D5300 Cameras" that we have announced on November 19th.

However, for the Nikon Df cameras, it includes those lenses that do not have an internal AF motor, and the following products will require a firmware update.

For those customers who use Sigma lenses in Nikon mount with the Nikon Df camera, we are going to provide a free firmware update. Please note that all the products we dispatch from the factory will have the latest firmware.

Phenomenon
Without the latest firmware, the OS and Auto Focus functions do not work properly when it is used with the Nikon Df cameras.

Concerned Products
Nikon fitting interchangeable lenses not yet updated for the Nikon D5300 camera. It includes the following lenses that do not have an internal AF motor:

• 8mm F3.5 EX DG CIRCULAR FISHEYE
• 15mm F2.8 EX DG DIAGONAL FISHEYE
• 20mm F1.8 EX DG ASPHERICAL RF
• 24mm F1.8 EX DG ASPHERICAL MACRO
• 28mm F1.8 EX DG ASPHERICAL MACRO
• MACRO 50mm F2.8 EX DG
• MACRO 70mm F2.8 EX DG

* For some discontinued products, we may not be able to offer the firmware update due to the discontinuation of related repair parts. Please contact your nearest authorized Sigma distributor for further details.
* Please refer to the link below for further information on the firmware update for the Nikon D5300
http://www.sigma-photo.co.jp/english/new/new_topic.php?id=402

Support
For those customers in need of the latest firmware, we are going to provide a free firmware update from December 4th. For discontinued products, please contact your nearest authorized Sigma distributor for further details. Also, for lenses that are compatible with the SIGMA USB DOCK, it is possible to update the firmware via SIGMA Optimization Pro.

Local Service Center
You can contact your nearest authorized Sigma distributor for the firmware update. Details of your nearest authorized Sigma distributor can be found on the following web page.
http://www.sigma-photo.co.jp/english/network/index.html

From Sigma:

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We would like to announce that we have updated the firmware of the SIGMA Optimization Pro, the dedicated software for the SIGMA USB DOCK.

The latest firmware enables our Nikon fitting interchangeable lenses fully functional with the Nikon D5300 camera. For those customers who own following products, please update the firmware of the lens via the SIGMA Optimization Pro.

• 35mm F1.4 DG HSM A012 NIKON
• 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM C013 NIKON
• 30mm F1.4 DC HSM A013 NIKON
• 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM A013 NIKON
• 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM S013 NIKON

Please update SIGMA Optimization Pro Software to Ver. 1.1 before attempting firmware update.

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

Adorama carries the Sigma USB Dock (necessary to upgrade firmware).

From Sigma:

Thank you very much for purchasing and using Sigma products.

We have found that the current firmware of our Nikon fitting interchangeable lenses may not work properly with the Nikon D5300’s OS and Live View Auto Focus functions.

For those customers who own Sigma lenses in Nikon mount, we are going to provide a free firmware update service.

Please note that all the products we dispatch from the factory will have the latest firmware.

Phenomenon

Without the latest firmware, the OS and Live View Auto Focus functions do not work properly when it is used with the Nikon D5300.

Concerned Products

Nikon fitting interchangeable lenses that incorporate an internal motor

* Firmware upgrade cannot be applied to the lenses that do not have an internal motor.

* For some discontinued products, we may not be able to offer the firmware update due to the discontinuation of related repair parts. Please contact your nearest authorized Sigma distributor for the further details.

Support

For those customers in need of the latest firmware, we are going to provide free firmware update from November 20th. For discontinued products, please contact your nearest authorized Sigma distributor for the further details.

For lenses that are compatible with the SIGMA USB DOCK, it is possible to update them via SIGMA Optimization Pro.

From Sigma:

Versatile and stabilized standard zoom lens starts shipping in November for street price of $899

NEW YORK, NY — Oct. 25, — 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 from PhotoPlus Expo 2013 announced the pricing and availability of its new 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM Art lens.

This new Art lens was developed as part of the company’s Global Vision and will be on shelves next month, starting with Canon mounts, for the street price of $899. The full frame lens, which will also work with APS-C sensor cameras with an effective increase in focal length, will be available in Nikon and Sigma mounts in December, and Sony mounts will soon follow. All but the Sony mounts will incorporate Sigma’s proprietary Optical Stabilizer (OS) technology to compensate for camera shake. This functionality is omitted from Sony mounts to accommodate for that manufacturer’s in-camera image stabilization system.

The 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM covers the basic shooting range from wide to medium tele with an inner focusing system that eliminates front lens rotation, enhancing the lens stability and allowing the use of circular polarizing filters. Moreover, it 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.

“This is a top-notch lens in its design and image quality. Our engineering team in Japan continues to wow the industry with the caliber of the new lenses we’re producing and we expect Sigma users to be just as pleased with this new 24-105 F4,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America.

The lens offers the largest possible fixed aperture to zoom ratio that will maintain optimal integrity for many kinds of photography, including landscapes, architecture, portraiture and still-life. With a minimum focusing distance of 45cm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4.6, this lens is also excellent for close-up photography.

High-performance glass elements, including SLD and FLD, which is equal to fluorite, and glass-molded single- and double-sided aspheric lenses have been included into the optical system to prevent aberration, field curvature, distortions and color aberration. The 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM lens is also able to suppress chromatic aberration very effectively at the telephoto-end, and can achieve superior image quality throughout the zoom range. Unlike lenses with similar specifications, this lens overcomes low peripheral brightness. Although it is designed for full frame cameras, it also works with APS-C sensors, giving an increase to focal length.

The lens’ Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) ensures a silent, high-speed auto focus function and enables full-time manual focusing capability. The 24-105mm is also compatible with Sigma’s USB dock allowing photographers to update its firmware and change focus parameters using Sigma's Optimization Pro software. It is also compatible with Sigma’s recently announced Mount Conversion Service.

Adorama has the Sigma 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM Lens for Canon available for preorder.

From Sigma:

Sigma Corporation of America Brings Sigma Safari Experience to PhotoPlus Expo 2013

Manufacturer offers hands-on photography demos, streams live video tutorials from show floor

RONKONKOMA, N.Y., Oct. 21, 2013 – 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 kick off the Sigma Safari Experience on Thursday, October 24, the first day of PhotoPlus Expo (PPE) at the Javits Convention Center in New York City.

Visitors of Sigma’s PPE booth 537 this week will have an opportunity to test Sigma’s cameras and lenses as they photograph professional models who have been dramatically transformed with high-end makeup and styling to resemble safari animals. Sigma Pros Jennifer Rozenbaum, Kevin Ames and Lindsay Adler will be on hand to interact with shooters and teach live sessions from the Sigma Safari Experience area at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. ET each day of the show, Oct. 24, 25 and 26. These sessions cover lighting, posing and exposure, and will be live streamed to the Sigma website at http://www.sigmaphoto.com/sigma-safari-experience.

In addition to the hands-on testing and live tutorials, Sigma will offer show attendees and home viewers a chance to win several prizes through the event.

“This is our second year of offering a hands-on shooting experience in our booth and we are pleased to say that the models and level of engagement will be even better this year. Our Sigma Pros are eager to share their expertise and we’re really excited to be able to share the experience with audiences at the show and at home,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America.

Here’s a schedule of the live streaming #SigmaSafari tutorials:

Thursday, Oct. 24

• 11a.m. ET – Kevin Ames: “Long Lens – Close up!”
• 1 p.m. ET – Lindsay Adler: “Lighting for Mood”
• 3 p.m. ET – Jennifer Rozenbaum: “Posing to Flatter Every Woman”

Friday, Oct. 25

• 11 a.m. ET – Jennifer Rozenbaum: “Posing vs. Editing”
• 1 p.m. ET – Kevin Ames: “Making Bokeh”
• 3 p.m. ET – Lindsay Adler: “The One-Two Punch”

Saturday, Oct. 26

• 11 a.m. ET – Lindsay Adler: “Analyze to Get the Shot!”
• 1 p.m. ET – Jennifer Rozenbaum: “Posing Flow”
• 3 p.m. ET – Kevin Ames: “Exposing Exposure”

Win prizes at Sigma’s booth (or online) each day of the show:

• #SigmaSafari Sweeps: Two lucky Sigma fans – one at the show and one at home – will win a 35mm F1.4 DG HSM Art lens each day of the show! Fans can enter for a chance to win by testing gear at the Sigma Safari Experience shooting station in the Sigma booth and by registering their email address online, during the live broadcasts.

Sigma will have more than 45 products on display at PPE this year. Stop by the booth to see the latest lenses from the Global Vision line, including the recently announced 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM and the 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | ART lenses. Sigma’s new USB Dock will also be available at the booth.

To find out more about Sigma’s Safari Experience, please visit http://www.sigmaphoto.com/sigma-safari-experience.

Sigma has officially announced the 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM lens that they inadvertently posted to their website on Monday. Oddly enough, they don't mention a suggested retail price for it.

From Sigma:

RONKONKOMA, NY — October 16, 2013 — 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 newest addition to the Sigma Art line of lenses for full-frame cameras, the 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM.

True to its categorization as a Sigma Art lens, the new 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM is designed for artistic expression and top-notch image quality. This versatile lens covers the basic shooting range from wide to medium tele with an inner focusing system that eliminates front lens rotation, enhancing the lens stability and allowing the use of circular polarizing filters. It also boasts a constant aperture of F4, and contains Sigma’s proprietary Optical Stabilizer (OS) technology to compensate for camera shake. Moreover, it 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 new optical standard to align with the high-spec cameras on today’s market.

“For many years, Sigma users have been seeking a standard zoom lens in this range,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “The 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM is yet another example of Sigma listening to its users and delivering new and innovative products with the highest image quality.”

Amir-Hamzeh added that this new lens combines the largest possible fixed aperture to zoom ratio that will maintain optimal integrity for many kinds of photography, including landscapes, architecture, portraiture and still-life. With a minimum focusing distance of 45cm and a maximum magnification ratio of 1:4.6, this lens is also excellent for close-up photography.

High-performance glass elements, including SLD, FLD, which is equal to fluorite, and glass-molded single- and double-sided aspheric lenses have been included into the optical system to prevent aberration, field curvature, distortions and color aberration. The 24-105mm F4 DG OS HSM lens is also able to suppress chromatic aberration very effectively at the telephoto-end, and can achieve superior image quality throughout the zoom range. Unlike lenses with similar specifications, this lens overcomes low peripheral brightness. Although it is designed for full frame cameras, it also works with APS-C sensors, giving an increase to focal length.

The lens’ Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) ensures a silent, high-speed auto focus function and enables full-time manual focusing capability. The 24-105mm is also compatible with Sigma’s USB dock allowing photographers to update its firmware and change focus parameters using Sigma's Optimization Pro software. It is also compatible with Sigma’s recently announced Mount Conversion Service.

Lens Specifications:

Although I haven't seen an official announcement by Sigma just yet, a 24-105mm f/4 DG OS HSM "Art" lens is already featured on Sigma's website.

Lens Specifications:

Update: It looks like Sigma removed the webpage from their server. However, an official announcement is surely not far off.

Sigma has announced that the Nikon version of its wide aperture zoom – the 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM – will "start shipping soon."

Adorama has the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM for Nikon available for preorder.

From Sigma:

Sigma Optimization Pro 1.1:

Even after the update of lens firmware, this updated version of software will allow customers to secure all the settings and adjustment values of AF and OS that are customized via the USB DOCK. Please update to Ver1.1 before operating firmware update of 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM C013 and 35mm F1.4 DG HSM A012. When the latest version of SIGMA Optimization Pro is released, users of the previous version will be notified with a pop-up window when the software starts up with an internet connection.

Download: Sigma Optimization Pro 1.1: Windows | Macintosh

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Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Firmware 1.02:

• Refined AF algorithm to reduce the operating noise.
• Improved smoothness of AF as it starts up and stops.

* Please update to SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver1.1 before operating firmware update of 35mm F1.4 DG HSM A012.

You can download the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Firmware 1.02 via Optimization Pro 1.1.

Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM Firmware 1.01:

• Improved stability of the Optical Stabilizer's operation.
• Refined AF algorithm to reduce the operating noise.

* Please update to SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver1.1 before operating firmware update of 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM C013.

You can download the Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM Firmware 1.01 via Optimization Pro 1.1.

Adorama carries the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM, Sigma 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM and the USB Dock.

From Sigma:

Thank you for purchasing and using our products.

We'd like to announce that we are going to introduce SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver. 1.1, an update to the dedicated software for the SIGMA USB DOCK, in the end of September.

Even after the update of lens firmware, this updated version of software will allow customers to secure all the settings and adjustment values of AF and OS that are customized via the USB DOCK.

As SIGMA USB DOCK users, please be sure to update to SIGMA Optimization Pro Ver1.1 from the following page, before operating any lens firmware updates.

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

Moreover, as the new version of SIGMA Optimization Pro becomes available, we are planning to update lens firmware for 35mm F1.4 DG HSM A012 for Canon mount as well as 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC MACRO OS HSM C013 for Sigma, Canon and Nikon mounts.

We appreciate your continuing support for our company and products.

Adorama carries the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM and 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC Macro OS HSM global vision lenses.

From Sigma:

Sigma Corporation(CEO: Kazuto Yamaki, Location: Kawasaki, Japan) has established, Sigma China in Shanghai, China. Sigma China is formed as a solely owned subsidiary of Sigma Corporation and operations started on August 1st, 2013.

Purpose:

We established a subsidiary in Shanghai to fulfill sales, brand management and customer support in the growing Chinese market.

We intend to construct an efficient sales and logistics network and we believe that this will enable us to provide a complete line-up of our products, build brand image as well as offer a good after-sales service.

Summary

Adorama carries Sigma lenses.

From Sigma:

RONKONKOMA, N.Y., - Aug. 1, 2013 - 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 a revolutionary new, fee-based service that will enable the company’s Global Vision lens owners to change their lens mounts for use on different camera systems.

Starting Sept. 2, Global Vision lens owners can request the Mount Conversion Service to convert their current Sport, Contemporary or Art DSLR lenses to their choice of a Sigma, Sony, Pentax, Nikon or Canon mount. Global Vision category lenses for mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras (MILCs) can be updated to either a micro four thirds (MFT) or Sony E- mount.

In addition to the announcement of the industry’s first Mount Conversion Service, Sigma is also extending the warranty on all of its products - including cameras, lenses and flashes purchased on or after July 1, 2013 - to four years. Previously, warranties varied by product. This enhanced product protection provides Sigma’s customers with more consistency and improved service.

“Professionals and amateurs alike are taking advantage of the many affordable camera options in today’s market; they’re updating their camera bags and exploring new systems and brands,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “When photographers purchase a lens, it’s often a significant, financial and artistic commitment - and we believe that investment should last a lifetime. Our new Mount Conversion Service and extended warranty are intended to help Sigma users get more enjoyment from our products, regardless of how their approach to photography changes overtime.”

The Mount Conversion Service is limited to all of Sigma’s Global Vision lenses. Current, applicable full-frame lenses include the 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS Sport and 35mm F1.4 DG Art; APS-C crop sensor lenses include the 30mm F1.4 DC HSM Art, 17-70mm F2.8-4 DC OS Macro Contemporary and 18-35mm F1.8 DC Art; and MILC lenses include the 19mm F2.8 DN Art, 30mm F2.8 DN Art and 60mm F2.8 DN Art. Lenses can be converted to any mount of a photographer’s choosing, as long as Sigma has released that product in the requested mount.

Cost of the conversion will range between $80 to $250, plus shipping costs, depending on the focal length of the lens. All lenses will be shipped to Sigma’s US subsidiary in New York, and updated, calibrated and optimized for the new camera system at Sigma’s factory in Aizu, Japan. All lenses that undergo the Mount Conversion Service will be covered under warranty for six months following the update. Teleconverters, USB Docks and other accessories are not eligible for the service.

To request the Mount Conversion Service, please visit your local Sigma subsidiary. Customers in the United States should visit www.sigmaphoto.com.

Check out applicable Sigma products at Adorama:

• Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS Sport
• Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art
• Sigma 30mm f/1.4 DC HSM Art
• Sigma 17-70mm f/2.8-4 DC OS Macro Contemporary
• Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC Art

Adorama has started shipping the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Lens (for Canon) to preorder customers. If you're already in line, you can probably expect yours to arrive in the not-so-distant future. ;-)

From Sigma:

RONKONKOMA, N.Y., — June 14, 2013 — 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 that its new Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM Art lens will arrive in the United States early July for the street price of $799.

As the market’s first zoom lens to achieve a maximum aperture of F1.8 throughout the entire zoom range, the 18-35mm was created for DSLR cameras with APS-C size sensors, which translates to a focal range of 27-52.5mm on a 35mm camera. This lens will be available early July in Sigma and Canon mounts, with Nikon, Sony and Pentax mounts to follow.

“Sigma users are really excited about this lens. They’ve been watching the new Art line very closely – and their reaction to our initial announcement of this lens has been fantastic,” said Mark Amir-Hamzeh, president of Sigma Corporation of America. “More than 50 years of innovating with photography equipment has helped us build new generation lenses like the 18-35mm F1.8. We’re confident that photographers who focus on landscape, portrait, still-life, studio, close-up and casual shots will love this lens.”

The 18-35mm F1.8 is the latest addition to the company’s Art line of lenses, designed under the new Global Vision. The Global Vision lenses have a sleek new design with the manufacturing year stamped on the barrel, and are categorized by use into one of three groups: Art, Contemporary and Sports. The Art category delivers high-level artistic expression through sophisticated and abundant expressive power.

The new 18-35mm F1.8 lens features Sigma’s improved AF/MF switch and the use of Thermally Stable Composite (TSC) compound material, which has a high affinity to metal parts, consistently performs well at extreme temperatures, and reduces the size and weight of the lens. The lens’ Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting and provides sharp and high contrast images, even in backlit conditions. Sigma’s Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) ensures a silent, high-speed AF function, while its nine-blade, rounded diaphragm creates an attractive, round bokeh at large-aperture settings.

The 18-35mm F1.8 lens is also compatible with Sigma’s new USB Dock, which is available for the street price of $59, enabling photographers to update lens firmware and adjust focus parameters from their computers.

Preorder Opportunities:

B&H | Adorama

From Sigma:

Introducing an industry milestone of lens customization. Fine tune the critical parameters of your 120-300mm f2/.8 lens with our proprietary USB Dock and Sigma Optimization Pro Software and you'll see:

This is more than an advance, it's an evolution.

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Autofocus Motor Speed

The overall speed of the AF motor can be adjusted when the AF is engaged.

Microfocus Adjustments

Fine-tune your lenses' response in multiple zones at all focal distances without having to send your camera in for adjustment.

Focus Limiter Setting

The Autofocus limiter range can be customized to keep the focal distance response zone exactly where you want it.

Lens Firmware Updates

Adjust your lens firmware and make updates yourself, even with new lens/camera communication protocols that aren't included in the previous chip. And do it all without service support.

Optical Stabilizer Customization

Dynamic, Standard and Moderate OS customization allows for control of the visual feel of the Optical Stabilizer through the viewfinder while framing the moment.

Multiple Custom Settings

The C1 and C2 switch on the lens allows for different customization presets for different situations – one for ballgame and another for birdwatching.

Learn more about Sigma's Optimization Pro Software and USB Dock.

B&H carries the Sigma 120-300mm f/2.8 DG OS HSM Lens for Canon and Sigma USB Dock.

B&H expects a shipment of Sigma USB Docks to hit their inventory on or before Thursday. If you haven't already placed your preorder, now would be a good time to get in line.