Ricoh Imaging has announced the D FA* 50mm F1 lens.4 SDM AW, the first of a new generation of Star lenses. The basic concept of this series is not only to create high quality flasher optics, but also to develop the most protective design for all-weather use.
D FA* 50mm F1 lens design.4 SDM AW consists of 15 elements in 9 groups, including one aspherical element and three elements with abnormally low dispersion. All elements are treated with Pentax’s proprietary HD and Aero Bright II coatings, which effectively suppress flare and ghosting. The lens aperture consists of 9 blades and is adjustable from f/1.4 to f/16.
The autofocus system uses a new SDM ring motor, which has a 7.5 times more torque than previous models. This allows the heavy multi-element rear lens groups to move smoothly during focusing, ensuring fast, accurate and near-silent autofocus operation. The lens has a minimum focus distance of 40 cm and a maximum magnification of 0.18h.
Designed as an AW all-weather model, the lens has a body with eight special seals to prevent water or dust from entering the lens. Combined with the weatherproof PENTAX camera body, the new lens forms a robust and reliable digital imaging system that performs well under harsh conditions – even in rain or fog or in places exposed to water spray. In addition, the front lens has an SP coating to prevent dirt, dust and oil stains from adhering, making the surface easier to care for.
To other features of the D FA* 50mm F1.4 SDM AW refers to the use of an electromagnetic aperture control mechanism, so this lens will only work correctly with the K-1 Mark II, K-1, K-3 II, K-3, KP, K-70, K-S2 or K-S1. The lens also supports 72 mm filters. The dimensions of the lens are 80x106mm, and weighs 910g
Price and availability
D FA* 50mm F1 Lens.4 SDM AW will go on sale at the end of July for $1200
Specifications
| Focal length | 50mm |
| Bayonet: | Pentax KAF4 |
| Aperture | Number of blades: 9 Adjustment range: from f/1.4 up to f/16 electromagnetic actuator |
| Design | 15 elements in 9 groups 1 aspherical element 3 elements with abnormally low dispersion HD and Aero Bright II coatings Super Protect coatings |
| Light Filter Diameter | 72 mm |
| Angle of view | 47.0° |
| Focus | Minimum distance 40 cm maximum magnification 0.18h New SDM Ultrasonic Ring Drive |
| DiameterDline | 88x106mm |
| Weight | 910 gr |
Image examples
The release of the Pentax D FA* 50mm F1.4 SDM AW lens sounds promising! Can someone clarify if this lens is compatible with all Pentax cameras or only specific models? Additionally, could you please share any notable features or improvements compared to previous Pentax lenses? Your insights would be greatly appreciated.
What makes Pentax’s D FA* 50mm F1.4 SDM AW lens stand out from its competitors in terms of performance and features?
I’m curious to know more about the features and performance of Pentax’s latest release, the D FA* 50mm F1.4 SDM AW lens. Can someone please provide details on its autofocus capabilities, weather sealing, and image quality? Additionally, how does it compare to similar lenses in terms of pricing and overall value for photographers? Thank you!