Image quality is superb throughout the zoom range at all focusing distances. Two aspherical elements, one an XA (extreme aspherical) type, ensure high resolution throughout the image area. Two ED (extra-low dispersion) glass elements, two Super ED glass elements and one ED aspherical element minimize chromatic aberration, while Sony’s Nano AR Coating II subdues flare and ghosting. High-performance 1.4x and 2x teleconverters are available.

Exquisite G Master bokeh

Beautiful G Master bokeh is achieved through advanced optical design, an F2.8 aperture and a new 11-blade aperture unit. An XA element manufactured to 0.01-micron surface precision suppresses onion ring bokeh and the new aperture unit helps to deliver natural circular bokeh. Close-up bokeh is superb too, with a minimum focusing distance of just 1.32 ft (0.4 m) at 70 mm and 2.69 ft (0.82 m) at 200 mm.

Fast, precise AF supports creative shooting

Four of Sony’s original XD (extreme dynamic) Linear Motors deliver high thrust efficiency that boosts AF speed by up to 4x compared to the previous model. When tracking an approaching short-distance runner, for example, tracking while zooming is improved by approx. 30% compared to the previous model, greatly increasing chances of getting the shot.

Professional control and reliability

Flexible focus control is provided by features such as Full-time DMF, Linear Response MF and a focus-range limiter. An aperture ring with switchable clicks and an iris lock provides extra exposure control. MODE 1, MODE 2 and MODE 3 optical image stabilization ensure sharp images and a dust and moisture resistant design plus fluorine-coated front element maximize reliability in tough environments.

Supplied accessories: Hood (model): ALC-SH167 - Lens front cap: ALC-F77S - Lens rear cap: ALC-R1EM - Soft case - Tripod mount