SIGMA creates world’s first 10x ultra-telephoto lens
Posted on Jan 13, 2023
The full-frame 10x 60-600mm ultra-telephoto zoom for mirrorless cameras is the perfect companion for pro sports, wildlife, motorsport and aviation photographers
Engineered for L-Mount and Sony E-Mount systems, this SIGMA 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS | Sports offers outstanding image quality, a robust construction, a newly designed focus motor and improved stabilisation. It is the perfect option for professional sports, wildlife, motor sport and aviation photographers who require a high performance, rugged and versatile tool.
Optical performance
The 60-600mm lens meets the needs of even the most demanding professional fast-action situations. Constructed of 27 elements in 19 groups, including two FLD and 3 SLD elements, the lens helps correct chromatic aberration – a common issue experienced by most ultra-telephoto lenses. Using high-performance glass, the lens delivers edge-to-edge sharpness across the entire zoom range and at all apertures.
A minimum focusing distance of 45cm at the wide end and 200mm at maximum magnification makes capturing detailed macro-style shots the simplest of tasks.
Ultra-fast AF motor
SIGMA has been busy developing a high-response Linear Actuator motor (HLA) – this now forms part of the 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 lens, delivering a whisper-quiet autofocus performance with unparalleled speed and precision.
Fast-action photographers will benefit most from exceptional focus-following, so they can be prepared for the perfect shot in a split second.
Improved optical stabiliser
In-built Optical Stabiliser (OS) function employs another of SIGMAs new developments, the OS2 algorithm. This significantly improves image stabilisation performance, giving 7-stop advantage at the wide and a 6-stop advantage at the telephoto end. The result? Razor-sharp images when working in challenging light conditions.
Two modes cover general shooting and panning, making it ideal for tracing moving subjects including vehicles, aircraft and birds. Mode 2 combines an acceleration sensor with SIGMAs Intelligent OS software, to add stabilisation except in the panning direction. Overall, this gives a smoother viewfinder image and makes it easier to track.
Advanced feature-set
Part of SIGMAs Sports line of lenses for the 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS | Sports comes equipped with a range of professional-grade features. Manufactured in the production base in Aizu, Japan, the 60-600mm has a superior construction that combines robustness with an exceptional precision and attention to detail.
Looking for speed and accuracy when focusing? Well, the lens features Dual Action Zoom for swift adaptation to fast-changing scenes. To zoom in and out, rotate the zoom ring or simply push or pull the end of the lens. Handily, a zoom lock has been built-in to the lens to stop zoom creep.
The Focus Limiter switch limits the focus range during AF for more precise results. Three AFL buttons on the body are customisable to an array of preferred functions via the camera menu. A lens hood is also included, and a rubber grip simplifies attaching and removing it and zooming.
The L-Mount version of the lens is compatible with the SIGMA TELE CONVERTER TC-1411 (1.4x) and TC-2011 (2.0x), allowing AF-enabled shooting at ultra-telephoto focal lengths of up to 1200mm.
The mount connection, manual focus ring, zoom ring, switches, switch panel and exterior connection are all dust and splash resistant for maximum usability.
The SIGMA 60-600mm F4.5-6.3 DG DN OS | Sports retails as £1999.99 and goes on sale 17 February 2023.
Head to the SIGMA website for more info or read Issue 103 of Photography News.
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