Pre-Photokina 2008: To accompany the anouncement of its K-m DSLR, Pentax has launched the 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 DA-L and 50-200mm F4-5.6 DA-L lenses. The new DA-L lenses are re-engineered, lightweight versions of existing lenses. Plastic lens mounts and the removal of the manu focus-override mechanisms help reduce weight. They will only be available in kits with the new K-m.

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Press Release:

PENTAX smc DA-L: new and ultra-lightweight zoom lens series

Pentax U.K. is pleased to announce the launch of two new DA L-series interchangeable zoom lenses – the smc DA-L 18-55mm and the smc DA-L 50-200mm.  

The ultra-lightweight construction of the lenses perfectly complements the new and compact Pentax K-m D-SLR. These zoom lenses and the K-m D-SLR are ideal for beginners, but also for those D-SLR photographers who need high quality but light-weight equipment. 

The smc PENTAX-DA L 18-55mm F3.5-5.6AL lens is a compact, standard zoom lens with focal lengths from 27.5mm to 84.5mm (in the 35mm format) covering wide-angle to medium-telephoto ranges. It offers the latest optical design featuring high-performance aspherical lens elements and super-low dispersion glass elements for effective compensation of various aberrations. Weighing in at only 700grams, the K-m and 18-55mm combination is perfect for the first-time user or a great travel photographer’s kit.

The smc PENTAX-DA L 50-200mm F4-5.6ED lens is a super-compact, ultra-lightweight telephoto zoom lens with focal lengths from 76.5mm to 307mm (in the 35mm format). It is equipped with an ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass optical element for effective compensation of chromatic aberrations over the entire zoom range and enhanced image-description.

In order to keep weight and price as attractive as possible, Pentax has adjusted the construction of these zoom lenses. Unlike other Pentax lens series these two lenses are equipped with synthetic bayonets and do not the Pentax Quick-Shift focal system.

Initially, both new lenses will be offered only as a kit with the Pentax K-m which will be available in November 2008.

smc PENTAX DA-L lens specifications

Model Name DA L 18-55mm F3.5-5.6AL DA L 50-200mm F4-5.6AL
Lens mount Pentax KAF
Lens Construction 11 elements in 8 groups 11 elements in 10 groups
Focal length 18-55 mm 50-200 mm
Angle of View 76-29° *
31.5-8.1° *
Maximum Aperture F3.5-5.6 F4-5.6
Minimum Aperture F22-38 F22-32
Diaphragm Blades 6 blades 6 blades
Minimum Focus Distance 0.25m (0.84 ft) 1.1m (3.6 ft)
Maximum Mag. Ratio

0.34 X

0.24 X
Filter Diameter

52 mm

52 mm
Dimensions

68 x 68 mm (2.7 x 2.7 in.)

67 x 79 mm (2.6 x 3.1 in.)
Weight 200 grams (7.1 oz.) 235g (8.3 oz.)
Lens hood PH-RBA52mm (Optional) PH-RBB52mm (Optional)

* On Pentax D-SLR body