Sigma has today announced that it is to release updated HSM motor driven versions of the 17-70 mm and 18-50 mm lenses on the Nikon lens mount. For those unfamiliar with the numerous lens acronyms, HSM stands for Hyper Sonic Motor, (also known as Ultrasonic motor, Silent Wave Motor or even Sonic Direct-drive Motor) and is a faster, quieter and often more compact motor system for lenses. Essentially this should mean quieter and faster focusing.

Press Release:

HSM has now been added to the Nikon fit 17-70mm F2.8-4.5 DC MACRO HSM and 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC MACRO HSM, allowing autofocus with all Nikon DSLR cameras.

The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the launch of the new 17-70mm F2.8-4.5 DC MACRO HSM for Nikon and 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC MACRO HSM for Nikon.

17-70mm F2.8-4.5 DC MACRO HSM for Nikon

Large aperture standard zoom lens designed specially for digital SLR cameras

The HSM is incorporated into this large aperture standard zoom lens for digital SLR cameras.This lens is capable of autofocusing with all Nikon DSLR cameras and has a minimum focusing distance of 20cm (7.9”) and maximum magnification of 1:2.3 enabling close-up photography. A Special Low Dispersion (SLD) glass and Aspherical lens allows a compact construction and high optical performance.

18-50mm F2.8 EX DC MACRO HSM for Nikon

Large aperture zoom lens designed specially for use with digital SLR cameras with a minimum focusing distance of 20cm (7.9”)

The HSM is incorporated into this large aperture standard zoom 18-50mm F2.8 EX DC MACRO. This lens is capable of autofocusing with all Nikon DSLR cameras. Aspherical lens, SLD glass and ELD (Extraordinary Low Dispersion) glass provide high picture quality throughout the entire zoom range. Super Multi Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting. High image quality is assured throughout the entire zoom range. Layer Coating and lens power layout provide high picture quality throughout the entire zoom range.