HD PENTAX-DA★ 16-50mmF2.8ED PLM AW
A new-generation Star series lens that ensures high-contrast, high-resolution imaging even at the edges of the frame and delivers clear, sharp images with minimal aberrations
This standard wide-aperture zoom lens is the latest model in the new-generation Star(★) series, designed to deliver the best possible image quality in collaboration with current cameras and also the high-performance cameras of the future. Its new optical design provides significantly improved contrast and sharpness compared to previous models. At the same time, various aberrations are compensated to a minimum, resulting in sharp, clear images from the center of the image field to the edges. By using an ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass optical element, an anomalous dispersion glass optical element, and two ED aspherical glass optical elements, chromatic aberration is effectively minimized throughout the zoom range.
A new-generation Star Series lens perfected for the ultimate in image quality
The new generation of Star Series lenses has already been designed with future camera bodies, and the increasing demands they will bring, in mind. As part of this, the new HD-PENTAX DA★16-50mmF2.8ED PLM AW saw a significant increase in resolving power. It also succeeded in reducing various aberrations, to a minimum, to obtain a clear image with a natural bokeh effect. At the same time, the high-quality multi-layer HD coating provides higher light transmission for high-contrast images with less stray light than before. By revising the optical design, the weight of the focusing lens group has been reduced, which in turn allows the use of a PLM motor to significantly improve focusing speed. The universally appreciated weatherproofing is achieved by nine sealing rings, as well as the front lens protection provided by SP coating. With its fast focusing speed, high image quality, and sophisticated construction, this camera will appeal not only to buyers of the current model, the PENTAX K-3 Mark III, but also to owners of older cameras in the PENTAX APS-C system.
Exceptional resolving power through uncompromising optical design
With an ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass optical element, an anomalous dispersion optical element, and two ED aspherical glass optical elements, chromatic aberrations are effectively reduced to a minimum throughout the zoom range. Coupled with a high-quality, multi-layer HD (High Definition) coating that reduces the average reflectance in the visible spectrum to less than 50% compared to conventional multi-layer coatings, flare and ghosting are effectively minimized even in challenging lighting conditions such as backlighting.
This standard zoom lens offers exceptionally high resolving power and outstanding contrast even at open aperture. At the same time, images are captured with a smooth transition of the bokeh effect (defocus) and a true-to-nature depth of field. In the wide-angle range, the aperture range up to F5.6 and in the telephoto range up to F8 is available for this purpose. At the same time, the circular design of 9 aperture blades minimizes fringing from point light sources.
Powerful PLM for quiet, fast autofocus operation
Thanks to the new development of the optical system, it has been possible to make the focus lens group more compact, and thus significantly lighter. In conjunction with the PLM (Pulse Motor) for the autofocus drive, smooth and fast autofocus operation with minimized operating noise is ensured. Compared to the previous smc 16-50mm Lens, focusing is significantly faster (about 2.2 times faster at wide-angle or about 1.5 times faster at telephoto compared to the smc PENTAX-DA★ 16-50mm F2.8ED AL[IF] SDM).
The "PENTAX Quick-Shift Focus System" is used to manually correct the distance setting. This allows the distance to be corrected manually at any time without the need for a switch or time-consuming adjustment. Thanks to the newly designed focus mechanism, the HD-PENTAX DA★16-50mmF2.8ED PLM AW offers a minimum focusing distance of only 0.3 meters and a maximum magnification of 0.24x. This makes it a universal lens for capturing all kinds of subjects - from everyday snapshots to close-ups and landscapes.
High-precision electromagnetic iris control even when shooting video
The HD-PENTAX DA★16-50mmF2.8ED PLM AW features a KAF4 bayonet, which enables electromagnetic iris control* with the corresponding camera. Especially when shooting video** and strong fluctuations in brightness - e.g. on a stage with rapidly changing lighting conditions or with active, fast-moving subjects such as athletes or animals - the highly precise exposure control is a great advantage. In combination with a PENTAX K-3 Mark III, PENTAX KP or PENTAX K-70, the PLM (Pulse Motor) ensures smooth focus tracking and flawless exposure control. In the process, annoying noise generated during focus and iris control during video recording is significantly reduced.
*This Lens has a KAF4 lens mount compatible with an electromagnetic iris control system. Cameras compatible with this system are K-1 Mark II, K-1, K-3 Mark III, K-3 II, K-3, KP, K-70, K-S2, K-S1 and K-50. For K-1, K-3 II, K-3, K-S2, K-S1 and K-50, the camera's firmware must be updated to the latest version. If this Lens is used on a camera without a proper firmware upgrade, the exposure may not be correct because the iris control is not supported.
**The video functions of the KAF4 mount are compatible with the following cameras: PENTAX K-3 Mark III, PENTAX K-3 II, PENTAX K-3, PENTAX KP, PENTAX K-70, PENTAX K-50, PENTAX K-S2, PENTAX K-S1, PENTAX K-1 Mark II and PENTAX K-1. To use the functions of the new Lens, the camera's firmware must be updated accordingly.
Dustproof and Weatherproof Construction
Designed as an AW (All Weather) model, this zoom lens features a dustproof and weatherproof construction that prevents water and dust particles from entering the interior of the lens. Combined with a dust- and weather-resistant PENTAX SLR digital camera body, this results in an extremely rugged and reliable digital shooting system that performs superbly in the most demanding shooting conditions - rain, snow, fog, or splash-prone locations.
A standard zoom lens for general-purpose use must be suitably rugged to withstand any adventure. To prevent damage from moisture or dust, this Lens is equipped with nine special sealing rings that prevent moisture and dust from entering the interior of the Lens. This makes the Lens a reliable tool even in rain, fog, splashing water or sub-zero temperatures down to -10°C.
The front lens is additionally equipped with Super-Protect (SP) coating. It reduces dirt and moisture adhesion and facilitates cleaning, e.g. of splashing water or greasy substances.
