Pentax HD Pentax-DA 16-50mm f/2.8 ED PLM AW Lens, Bundle with 77mm Filter Kit, Cleaning Kit, Cleaning Cloth, Lens Cleaner

Ricoh Imaging is pleased to announce the launch of the HD PENTAX-DA 16-50mm F2.8ED PLM AW Lens. As the latest model of the new-generation Star-series lenses for use with PENTAX APS-C-format digital SLR cameras, this standard zoom is designed to provide improved image quality and high-speed, high-precision autofocus operation when paired with the new PENTAX K-3 Mark III as well as accommodate the super-high-performance digital cameras of the future.

By incorporating the latest optical design technologies, the optics have been completely redesigned to assure high-resolution, high-contrast images, even at open aperture. It also incorporates a PLM (Pulse Motor) for the first time in a large-aperture lens to assure high-speed, low-noise autofocus operation and is fine-tuned for greater operability in manual-focus operation. The lens also features an electromagnetic diaphragm control mechanism to assure high precision exposure control and smooth focus tracking when used in combination with compatible digital SLR cameras.

With a minimum focusing distance of 0.3 meters (0.98 ft.) and a maximum magnification of 0.24 times, this new standard zoom lens allows users to fully enjoy the process of photography according to their own preferences and can be used in a variety of applications including landscape, snapshots and portraits.

Features

New-generation Star-series lens, designed for optimal image quality
Designed with the renewed performance evaluation of the new-generation of Star-series lenses - which provides the greatly improved resolving power that will accommodate the super-high-performance digital cameras of the future - this standard zoom lens compensates various aberrations to a minimum and delivers sharp, clear images, not only in the middle of the image field but at the edges. Incorporating one ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass optical element, one anomalous glass optical element and two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) aspherical glass optical elements, it effectively reduces chromatic aberration to a minimum over the entire zoom range.

Coupled with high-grade, multi-layer HD Coating, which reduces the average reflectance in the visible ray spectrum to less than 50% that of conventional multi-layer coatings, it effectively minimizes flare and ghost images even in demanding lighting conditions such as backlighting.

It delivers exceptionally high resolving power and outstanding contrast even at open aperture, while capturing beautiful images with a smooth transition of the bokeh (defocus) effect and a true-to-life depth of field. Since its maximum aperture is fixed at F2.8 over the entire focal-length range from 16 to 50 millimeters (equivalent to 24.5mm to 76.5mm in 35mm format), this large-aperture zoom lens makes it an ideal regular-use lens for the PENTAX K-3 Mark III.

High-speed AF system with a minimum focusing distance of 0.3 meters
This lens incorporates a newly designed optical system which features a lighter, more compact focus-lens group. By driving this focus-lens group with an advanced PLM (Pulse Motor), it assures smooth, high-speed autofocus operation with minimized operational noise. Thanks to the redesigned focus mechanism, it provides the minimum focusing distance of just 0.3 meters, and the maximum magnification of 0.24 times, making this a versatile, regular-use lens for capturing all types of subjects - from everyday snapshots to close-ups and landscapes.

Electromagnetic diaphragm mechanism for high-precision diaphragm control
It features an electromagnetic diaphragm control mechanism to assure high-precision exposure control when used in combination with compatible digital SLR cameras. It also lets the user capture video clips using automatic exposure control, even when there are considerable differences in brightness during the video shooting. When mounted on a PENTAX K-3 Mark III, PENTAX KP or PENTAX K-70 camera body, the PLM (Pulse Motor) assures smooth focus tracking operation and flawless exposure control, while considerably reducing annoying noise generated by focus and diaphragm control operations during video shooting. It assures smooth, worry-free video shooting in locations prone to considerable brightness changes - such as a stage with rapidly changing lighting conditions, or a forest with filtering sunrays - or with active, fast-moving subjects such as athletes or animals.

Dustproof, weather-resistant construction
Developed as an AW (All Weather) model, this zoom lens features a dustproof, weather- resistant construction to prevent the intrusion of water and dust particles into the lens interior. By pairing it with a PENTAX dustproof, weather-resistant digital SLR camera body, the user can create a highly durable, reliable digital imaging system that performs superbly even in the most demanding shooting conditions - in rain or mist, or at locations prone to splashing water.