The HD PENTAX-DA★ 11-18 mm F2.8 ED DC AW (equivalent to 17 to 27.5 mm in 35 mm full-frame format) is the latest lens in the new generation of the PENTAX Star Series (★). Lenses in this series stand for exceptionally high optical performance and outstanding features. The Stern series is designed not only to meet the current demands of digital photography, but also to be prepared for generations to come. Like all lenses in this series, the 11-18mm ultra-wide-angle zoom lens delivers high-resolution, high-contrast images with no blurring to the edges of the frame and ensures excellent imaging performance even at open aperture.
With the introduction of this lens, the high-quality, high-performance Stern series now offers compact lenses with a minimum aperture of F2.8, from ultra-wide to telephoto, for PENTAX digital cameras.
As with all lenses in this series, particular emphasis has been placed on performance under adverse conditions. For example, the Lens not only has seals to prevent the ingress of moisture or dust, but is also prepared for the use of a dew cap heater, which greatly improves the operability of the Lens when photographing landscapes and starry skies.
The new generation of PENTAX Star Series
Lenses with outstanding performance are marked with a star (★) in the PENTAX system. To receive this rating, the following three basic parameters must be met:
- Best possible image quality with uniform sharpness from the center to the edges of the image
- Large aperture with particularly expressive image effect
- High-quality workmanship and materials with high robustness and easy handling
The lenses of the Stern series must not only be optimally matched to current image sensors, but must also be designed for future image capture technologies and at the same time remain as compatible as possible with older cameras.
Elaborate lens design
To achieve high optical quality with the smallest possible dimensions, this Lens consists of 16 lens elements in 11 assemblies. A total of three ED lenses and two aspherical lenses (AL) were used. One of the ED lenses is combined with AL to reduce chromatic and spherical aberrations with one glass.
Large input light with F2.8 aperture
Despite its compact size, the new ultra-wide-angle zoom lens has a very large input light of F2.8 aperture over the entire zoom range. The short minimum focus distance of 30 cm allows the photographer to create very realistic images with great image depth, emphasized by the blur, with a soft bokeh through nine aperture blades, in the background.
HD coating for optimum light transmission and minimum reflection
The lens elements of this Lens are coated with the multi-layer HD (High Definition) coating developed by PENTAX, which offers significantly higher light transmission with low reflection (about 50% less than conventional multi-layer coatings) compared to conventional coatings. This allows for maximum contrast and sharpness without flare and ghosting even in difficult conditions such as backlighting.
Optimized for Landscape and Astrophotography
A unique focus-clamp mechanism allows the photographer to lock the focus point of the Lens. This improves the operability of the Lens when photographing subjects that require precise focusing at longer exposure times, such as landscapes or in astrophotography.
To prevent condensation during prolonged outdoor shooting, the HD PENTAX-DA★ 11-18 mm F2.8 ED DC AW is prepared for use of a dew cap heater without affecting autofocus. A metal frame design transfers heat evenly and effectively to the lenses. Together with the Astrotracer function of the PENTAX SLR cameras, the work is made much easier, especially for astrophotography and landscape photography.
Dustproof, Weatherproof Construction
Designed as an AW (All Weather) model, this zoom lens features a dustproof, weatherproof construction that prevents water and dust particles from entering the lens interior. Combined with a weatherproof PENTAX digital SLR camera, you get an extremely rugged and reliable digital imaging system that is ideal for demanding shooting situations - even in rain or fog, or in locations where splashing water may occur.
SP coating to prevent front lens contamination
In addition to HD coating, the front lens of the Lens is equipped with SP (Super Protect) coating, which protects against grease or water and simplifies cleaning. Especially when used in adverse outdoor conditions, this is an important quality feature.
Fast and reliable focusing
Focusing is performed by a DC motor, which carries out focusing quickly and reliably. Quick focus correction, without switching to manual focus, is performed quickly and easily via the Quick Shift Focus function.
