Tamron Generation Two
This morning, Tamron announced the second generation of their popular super telephoto zoom, now known as the SP 150-600mm Di VC USD G2, for full-frame and smaller sensors. The update has improved virtually everything about the lens, from image quality to focus speed and ergonomics.
Optically, the lens features a new 21 element (in 13 groups) formula, now featuring three LD glass elements which Tamron claims are able to completely eliminate axial and transverse chromatic aberration (color fringing), improving resolution and sharpness significantly.
An improved ring-type USD motor in the G2 promises faster, more responsive focus, especially with moving subjects. At the same time, the vibration compensation (VC) has been improved to 4.5 stops, although it’s hard to say exactly how much of an improvement that is, since Tamron did not publish a specific “stop” rating for the first generation (we suspect it was around 2.5-3 stops). Like many Canon and Nikon telephoto lenses, the Tamron now has three VC modes, one specifically for panning, and two with different balances of stabilization in the viewfinder.
The body and handling of the lens have also seen major improvements: the body is weather and dust sealed, the zoom ring can be locked in place at any position (“Flex Zoom Lock”, they’re calling it), the tripod collar is now Arca-Swiss compatible without the need for a quick-release plate, and of course, the front element has been adorned with Tamron’s latest coatings, including a fluorine protective coating to repel water and oil.
And it’s style has been updated to match the existing models in the new SP line.
All of this, and the lens is compatible with Tamron’s USB dock (TAP-in ConsoleTM) that will allow you to update the firmware and make adjustments to the AF and VC systems.
Additionally, Tamron has announced two new teleconverters, a 1.4x and a 2x, both ruggedly build, moisture proof, and designed to retain full AF and VC performance with compatible lenses.
Cost and Availability
Sigma already has two relatively new 150-600mm lenses on the market, the “contemporary” and the “sport” models, priced at $1089 and $1999, respectively.
The Tamron will fall between the two in price, at $1399 when it begins shipping on September 23rd (right in the middle of Photokina!), as long as you shoot Canon or Nikon. The Sony model will be available later in the year. Teleconverters will cost $419 and $439.
This lens is now available for pre-order at B&H:
