Sigma 50mm F1.4 DG HSM Art lens gets pricing and release date

Sigma has announced the pricing and availability on a new lens that it first announced during CES 2014 earlier this year. The new lens is called the 50mm F.14 DG HSM Art and it will launch in late April with a street price of $949. Sigma made this lens to be perfect with the full-frame DSLR cameras out there. Sigma notes the lens is aimed at photography and videography.

The lens uses SLD glass, is optimized for rich peripheral brightness, and has better large aperture performance than other lenses thanks to the positioning of the wide group elements inside the lens. Sigma also gave the lens an optimized autofocus algorithm that makes focusing smoother. A floating focusing system is integrated to help reduce movement of the lens when focusing.

Sigma tests the lens using its proprietary modulation transfer function. Inside the lens are 13 elements in eight groups for a significant increase compared to the previous lens with eight elements in six groups. Close focusing is improved allowing the lens to focus on subjects only 15.7-inches away. Maximum magnification ratio for the lens is 1:5.6.

Other features of the lens include a Super Multi-Layer coating that helps reduce flaring and ghosting. Sigma will offer the lens with mounts for Sigma, Sony, Nikon, and Canon cameras. Sigma also notes that the lens is compatible with its USB dock and Mount Conversion Service.

SOURCE: DPReview