Pentax Announces DA 17-70mm SDM Lens

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June 3, 2008* - Pentax today announced the Pentax DA 17-70mm f/4 AL [IF] SDM interchangeable zoom lens,designed for compatibility with Pentax DSLRs. It will retail for $599.95 when it is released in late July.

First shown at PMA 2008, Pentax's newest lens features a 4.1x zoom ratio and covers a focal distance of 26-107mm in 35mm format. Pentax claims its built-in supersonic motor provides smooth, quiet autofocusing.

Its maximum aperture of f/4 allows for higher shutter speed to compensate for camera shake, and the lens features a minimum focusing distance of 11 inches. The lens features Pentax's (Super Protect) coating, which protects the exposed lens elements and repels dust, water, and grease. It also features a Quick-shift Focus System that allows for easy switching from auto to manual focus.

The lens is compatible with Pentax's newest DSLRs, including the K20D, K200D, K100D Super, and K10D.

Specifications for the lens are as follows:

• Lens mount: PENTAX K_AF3 mount

• Lens construction: 17 elements in 12 groups

• Angle of view: 79° - 23° (with PENTAX D-SLR camera body)

• Number of diaphragm blades: 7

• Minimum aperture: F/22

• Minimum focusing distance: 0.28m (0.92 ft.)

• Filter size: 67mm

• Maximum magnification: 0.31x

• Dimensions (diameter x length): 75 x 93.5mm (3.0 x 3.7 inch)

• Weight: 485 g (17.1 oz.) without hood; 515g (18.2 oz.) with hood