Pentax brings HD-DA 16-50mm f2.8ED PLM AW Standard Zoom Lens for APS-C

The new top model Pentax K-3 Mark III (Hands-on) gets a new standard zoom wide angle lens, the Pentax HD-DA 16-50mm f2.8ED PLM AW. It was developed under the standards of the new generation “Star Series” and optimally adapted to the new K-3 Mark III SLR Pentax camera.

Compared to the Pentax-DA * 16-50mm F2.8ED AL SDM, the standard zoom lens of the first generation, which was introduced in July 2007, this lens should offer significantly improved imaging performance, according to Ricoh Imaging. In addition, the new lens for autofocus control is equipped with a PLM (Pulse Motor) to ensure fast and quiet automatic focusing. It should also offer better usability when focusing manually.

According to Ricoh Imaging, the new generation of the Star Series Pentax lenses was designed with future camera housings and increasing requirements in mind. The new HD-DA 16-50mm f2.8ED PLM AW is said to offer a significant increase in resolution and various imaging errors are said to have been reduced to a minimum in order to obtain a clear picture with a natural bokeh effect. At the same time, the new lens has a multi-layer HD coating for higher light transmission and for high-contrast images with less stray light.

By redesigning the optical design, the weight of the focusing lens group has been reduced, allowing the use of a PLM motor to significantly improve the focusing speed. The weather resistance of the new universal zoom is achieved through nine sealing rings and the front lens protection through the SP coating. With the fast focusing speed, the high image quality, and the complex construction, Ricoh Imaging wants to appeal not only to the buyers of the new Pentax K-3 Mark III but also to owners of older cameras of the Pentax APS-C system.

Price and availability

Pentax HD-DA 16-50mm f2.8ED PLM AW standard zoom wide angle lens is finally available to pre-order for $1,396.95 via Adorama.com and Bhphotovideo.com online shops.

Pentax HD-DA 16-50mm f2.8ED PLM AW Specifications

• Focal Length: 16 to 50mm (35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 24.5 to 76.5mm)
• Maximum Aperture: f/2.8
• Minimum Aperture: f/22
• Lens Mount: Pentax K
• Format Compatibility: APS-C
• Angle of View: 83° to 31.5°
• Minimum Focus Distance: 30 cm
• Maximum Magnification: 0.24x
• Optical Design: 16 Elements in 10 Groups
• Diaphragm Blades: 9, Rounded
• Focus Type: Autofocus
• Front Filter Size: 77 mm
• Dimensions (ø x L): 84 x 117 mm
• Weight: 1.6 lb / 712 g