Supplies are finally getting through from the far east, after reporting earlier that the Nikon D800 is in stock at Amazon UK, WEX is claiming to have Nikon D4 in stock at £5289 (inc VAT), though it's not known if it has the Sony XQD card and reader bundled as the first shipment from Japan had.
Amazon UK has the long-waited Nikon D800 in stock and at £200 off the RRP of £2599 (£2399 inc VAT). Stock is limited to just five bodies, they say.
Please click here or at the link above to buy.
DxO Labs, developers of raw workflow solution DxO Optics has announced v7.5.1 for Mac and Windows, and includes support for the Nikon 800E and D3200 as well as Sony’s SLT A35 and SLT A57 translucent-mirror SLRs, and Panasonic’s hybrid micro 4/3 camera, the Lumix DMC GX1. DxO claim the the algorithms have been fined tuned to restore detail from the Nikon D800E files when using the Remove color moiré tool.
The update is free to existing users of DxO Optics Pro 7 as well as for photographers who purchased a license for DxO Optics Pro 6 after September 1, 2011.
The Standard and Elite editions of DxO Optics Pro for Mac and Windows are available in the DxO Labs online store and at photo resellers, at a special discount price good through June 30, 2012
DxO Optics Pro v7.5.1 supports five more new cameras and achieves the milestone of 7,000 available DxO Optics Modules
Special 30% discount through June 30, 2012
June 20, 2012 - DxO Labs announces the immediate availability of DxO Optics Pro v7.5.1 for Mac and Windows, its image processing software of reference for all exacting photographers. This update means that DxO Optics Pro 7 now supports the latest cameras from Nikon, the D800E (Elite Edition only) and the D3200, Sony’s SLT A35 and SLT A57 translucent-mirror SLRs, as well as Panasonic’s hybrid micro 4/3 camera, the Lumix DMC GX1.
Ever more DxO Optics Modules
DxO Optics Pro 7 now counts more than 7,000 lens-camera combinations in its Optics Module library.
Since the last version, DxO Optics Pro v7.5.1 integrates more than 400 new DxO Optics Modules, of which 61 are modules for Nikon D800E and 71 are for the Nikon D3200. These latest modules enable support for additional Canon, Minolta, Nikkor, Panasonic, Samyang, Sigma, Sony, Tamron, and Tokina lenses for numerous Canon, Fuji, Nikon, Pentax, Samsung, and Sony cameras.
More effective moiré removal for the D800E
Since the Nikon D800E does not have an antialiasing (AA) filter, it can be more susceptible to moiré. DxO Optics Pro v7.5.1’s RAW conversion algorithms have been fine-tuned such that the "Remove color moiré" tool works more effectively for this camera to restore the finest details.
Availability and special discount
The Standard and Elite editions of DxO Optics Pro for Mac and Windows are available in the DxO Labs online store (www.dxo.com) and at photo resellers, at a special discount price good through June 30, 2012:
USD:
• DxO Optics Pro 7 Standard Edition: $ 99 instead of $ 169
• DxO Optics Pro 7 Elite Edition: $ 199 instead of $ 299
EUR:
• DxO Optics Pro 7 Standard Edition: 99 € instead of 199 €
• DxO Optics Pro 7 Elite Edition:199 € instead of 299 €
(Suggested retail prices, including VAT)
BGP:
• DxO Optics Pro 7 Standard Edition: £ 89 instead of £ 135
• DxO Optics Pro 7 Elite Edition: £ 179 instead of £ 269
(Suggested retail prices, including VAT)
This upgrade is free for all owners of DxO Optics Pro 7, as well as for photographers who purchased a license for DxO Optics Pro 6 after September 1, 2011.
A fully-functional trial version of DxO Optics Pro v7, good for one month, is available on the DxO Labs website.
Buy here, they won't last long. Rebates are also available, check their site for details.
I am currently reviewing the Ricoh GXR A12 M-mount body and have the super-compact not to mention super fast Voigtlander 35mm f/1.4 Nokton Classic MC rangefinder lens for review also. Before the reviews are published I thought I would show the focus shift that this particular lens exhibits. On a camera like the Ricoh GXR M-mount (or, for that matter, any mirrorless camera using an adaptor) this particular characteristic isn't really an issue, providing you focus at the taking aperture. It is, however, a distinct issue if you focus at the maximum aperture and then stop down to the taking aperture or if you're using a coupled rangefinder such as the maker's own Bessa models or a Leica M series, which do not compensate for focus shift.
I've used the Michael Tapes Design Lens Align Mk II to demonstrate the focus shift - it's a first class focus calibration tool which was originally designed to highlight issues with DSLRs and AF lenses but it's perfectly suited for this particular purpose. The following images are unretouched JPEGs displayed at 1:1 in Adobe Lightroom 4.
At maximum aperture, this is about as accurate as we can get (at a distance of around 3 1/2 feet), using focus peaking and the somewhat poor resolution of the Ricoh's VF-2 viewfinder in magnified mode. We've focused on the target to the left. If you look at the ruler to the right, focus is centered evenly on the +4 0 -4 digits.
If you're concerned by the amount of LoCA I can say that photographing targets with high contrast edges like this at close distances easily reveals this trait and others (such as SA) but real world images aren't likely to look quite so aberrated.
Besides, as you can see from the photo above, I can remove nearly all traces of LoCA in the latest version of Lightroom 4 - it's one of the most powerful features of the recent upgrade and one of the reasons why I recommend the utility for professional users.
Focus shift is immediately apparent at f/2.0, as the focus plane has shifted rearwards (exhibiting back-focus) with the depth of field over +12, 8, 4, 0 -4 (the +12 and -4 being equally unsharp)
By f/2.8 the depth of field continues to expand but the red ±0 is now out of focus, with the focus plane being over +24 to +4 range and the sharpest point of focus being around +20 to +16
At f/4 the focus shift continues rearward with the sharpest focus point being around +26 to +20, note the red colored rear target intersecting the large 4 is clearly in focus.
At f/5.6 the depth of field is beginning to encompass the original focus target (it's still a bit soft however) but the point of sharpest focus remains to the rear at around +36 to +20.
Much the same can be said at f/8, only now the depth of field now encompasses the original focus target (though the sharpest point of focus remains rearward at +36). And things don't change at f/11 or f/16 (there's little point showing those). Apart from the focus shift there's a lot to like about the Nokton, which we'll reveal in our forthcoming review so please check back for that.
The Voigtlander 35mm f/1.4 Nokton Classic MC can be purchased online in the UK at pro-dealer Robert White.
With the official launch date of the new Canon EOS 1-DX approaching, Canon has published a guide to the camera's AF settings. I'm hoping that the EOS-1DX isn't the kind of camera that has an AF system that's only as good as the user can set up (and it looks like it from this manual). There's no mention of autofocus being operational at an effective aperture of f/8, a feature that the rival Nikon D4 offers (which is useful when using a 600mm f/4 and 2x converter together - a fairly typical scenario for many wildlife shooters).
Indeed, Canon circumvent that point directly but they do state on page 39, when referring to the number and placement of of cross type points used by f/5.6 lenses "Many lenses with EF 1.4x or 2x Extenders, and compact zooms fall into this category. With lenses having maximum apertures slower than f/4, high-precision AF is technically not possible, but 21 AF points in the central area still provide cross-type AF coverage, and the wide-area coverage from all 61 AF points remains available".
From that paragraph, the 600mm f/4 and 1.4x converter will work as an 'f/5.6 lens' (albeit without 'high precision AF') but it appears confirmed then the EOS-1DX will not perform AF with any lens / telecoverter combination with an effective f/8 aperture. All the same, it will be interesting to see just how well this camera performs with effective apertures outside the AF sensor's optimum sensitivity range, especially when compared with the Nikon D4.
ThinkTank Photo has announced an update (now at version 3.0) to the popular Artificial Intellgence laptop sleeves. The new seeves are available now (please see links below), priced at $39.75, $49.75, and $59.75, respectively, plus shipping.
Features include:
• Removable, cushioned nonslip shoulder strap for all day comfort.
• Zippered and gusseted front pocket for full access to small item organizer.
• Securable rear document pocket.
• Business card slot for identification.
• Metal clips and D rings for long life.
• Highest quality YKK zippers and materials for long life.
• Stores inside Airport Rollers with appropriate Low Divider set, providing locked security with TSA locks.
The Artificial Intelligence 13 V3.0 V3.0 is sized to hold most 13" laptops and 10-11"netbooks and accessories. External Dimensions: 9.4" W x 13" x 1.2" D (24 x 33 x 3cm); Weight: 0.7-0.9 lbs (0.3-0.4 kg).
The Artificial Intelligence 15 V3.0 is sized to hold most 15.4" laptops and accessories. External Dimensions: 11" W x 15" x 1.4" D (28 x 38 x 3.6cm); Weight: 0.9-1.15 lbs (0.4-0.5 kg).
The Artificial Intelligence 17 V3.0 holds most 17" laptops and accessories. External Dimensions: 11.4" W x 16.3 H x 1.4" D (29 x 41.5 x 3.6cm); Weight: 1-1.3 lbs (0.4-0.6 kg).
Please note the links above take you to TTP's affiliate online shop, if you would prefer to buy from Adorama please note that they carry only a limited range of models.
We've had an Olympus OM-D EM-5 in for review for a while and it's certainly one the most convincing cameras of its type for reportage and for documentary use, especially when paired with with the 12mm f/2.0, Leica 25mm f/1.4 and 45mm f/1.8. Perhaps unsurprisingly then the camera is hard to find in stock, especially here in the UK. Jessops are out of stock but it can be found at the internet retailer WEX (Warehouse Express) in black; body only (£999), or c/w with the impressively fast focusing 12-50mm zoom (£1,149).
If you prefer Amazon (UK) try here (chrome body is even harder to find, though there are some with the 12-50mm).
For customers in the US, the EM-5 is in stock at the following retailers:
Thank you for buying through this site's links, it won't cost you extra.
Although only recently announced, WEX, formerly Warehouse Express, has the new 40mm f/2.8 STM in stock at £299.
After yesterday's announcement from Nikon of a 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6 ED VR lens at $999/£850, rival lens maker Sigma has announced a new 18-250mm f/3.5-5.6 zoom (actually an update) featuring offering many of the same features; optical image stabilization (unfortunately not included for Sony and Pentax as the bodies don't support OIS), ultrasonic focus motor, low dispersion glass and aspherical elements for nearly half the price, $TBA / £499. The lens focuses down to 35cm (45cm for the Nikkor) and weighs just 470g as opposed to 830g. The downside? Well it doesn't have quite the same reach (250mm vs 300mm) and it doesn't have sealing around the lens mount, but on paper at least these two lenses are very similar. We'll have to see how they perform optically.
For more information, please visit Sigma UK or Sigma Corp (USA).
The Sigma Corporation is pleased to announce the announce the new Sigma 18-250mm F3.5-6.3 DC MACRO OS HSM, a compact, high zoom ratio lens, covering wide angle, telephoto and macro photography.
By revolutionizing the optical and structural design of the Sigma 18-250mm F3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM, this new lens achieves a compact size and a minimum focusing distance of 35cm. Sigma’s newly developed material, Thermally Stable Composite (TSC), which maintains its size and structure in varying temperatures, is incorporated into the lens barrel.
Designed exclusively for digital SLR cameras, this versatile lens covers wide-angle to telephoto making it suitable for many types of photography. Its small size and huge focal-range make it perfect for travel photographers and those who like to keep equipment down to a minimum.
This is the first lens to use Thermally Stable Composite (TSC). This is a unique product that’s been developed in conjunction with a specialist manufacturer. This material is unique to Sigma and has metal like characteristics. Traditionally, Sigma use engineering plastic which is polycarbonate mixed with 20-30% glass. The advantages of this are its high resistance to impact, it’s lightweight and it doesn’t degrade over time. However, the drawbacks are its plastic feel and high dependency on temperature. In differing temperatures it expands and contracts considerably. As a result, a large gap is required between any metal/composite interface to allow for this expansion/contraction in size. The new TSC material has overcome this and is much more stable in varying temperatures. Consequently, a tighter construction can be achieved with thinner and lighter material.
Sigma’s own unique Optical Stabilizer (OS) function is incorporated into this lens. It offers effective correction of approximately 4 stops, overcoming camera shake even in close-up range photography.
※Sony and Pentax mounts are not incorporated with OS function.
One SLD (Special Low Dispersion) glass element offers excellent correction of color aberration and three aspherical lenses, including a double-sided aspherical lens, prevent and correct all types of aberrations such as astigmatism, achieving high image quality throughout the entire zoom range. Sigma’s Super Multi-Layer Coating reduces flare and ghosting, ensuring sharp and high contrast images even in backlit conditions. The supplied petal-type hood can be attached to block out extraneous light which has a harmful influence on image rendering.
The close-up capability is improved with a minimum focusing distance of just 35cm throughout the entire zoom range and maximum magnification ratio of 1:2.9. When the APS-C size sensor is taken into consideration, the effective maximum reproduction ratio becomes 1:2.
The lens benefits from a Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) to ensures fast and quiet auto-focusing.
This lens incorporates a brass made bayonet mount which has both high accuracy and solidity, the same as the mount of camera bodies. A special treatment to reinforce the strength is applied to the surface to ensure resistance to wear through long-term use.
*Sony and Pentax mounts do not incorporate Optical Stabilisation.
THE SPECIFICATIONS
Minimum Aperture F22
Minimum Focusing Distance 35cm
Lens Construction 16 Elements in 13 Groups
Maximum Magnification 1:2.9
Angle of View 76.5°- 6.5°
Filter Size 62mm
No. of Diaphragm Blades 7 pcs (Rounded)
Lens Hood Petal-type
Weight 470g
SRP £499.99
Dimensions Diameter 73.5mm x Length 88.6mm
Available Fittings Sigma AF, Nikon AF, Canon AF, Pentax AF, Sony AF
Nikon has launched to new lenses today, the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR for APS-C format cameras (such as the Nikon D7000 and D300s) and the AF-S NIKKOR 24–85mm f/3.5–4.5G ED VR (a long overdue update to the slot-drive 24-85mm f/2.8-4D IF, as well as the newer AF-S 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5G lens that was subsequently dropped). Both new lenses will be available by the end of the month, retailing at £849.99 / Euros 1002 for the 18-300mm and £519.99 / Euros 613.00 for the 24-85mm. The re-introduction of the relatively affordable 24-85mm lens will add credibility to the rumors of an impending full-frame camera, replacing the 12-megapixel D700 (pretty much confirmed now as being called the D600 on various rumor sites).
Neither lenses are available to pre-order via Amazon yet, but B&H Photo are taking orders:
RRP: £849.99 / Eur 1002.00
Sales start date: 28th June 2012
London, UK, 14th June 2012 – Nikon today announces a new high-powered DX-format zoom lens with wide-angle to super-telephoto reach and Vibration Reduction. Boasting an ultra-high 16.7x zoom ratio and incredibly wide 18-300mm focal range, this new lens is a great all-rounder for photographers with a broad range of interests.
Simon Iddon, Product Manager for Enthusiast Products, at Nikon UK says: “This new 18-300mm lens is ideal for photographers looking to travel light – it’s a versatile lens that allows you to capture a whole range of scenes with ease, thanks to its remarkable zoom range.”
All in One
With its versatile wide-angle to super-telephoto reach, this 16.7x zoom lens is perfect for travel or for times when you only want to take one lens out with you. The remarkable 18-300mm focal range (FX-format/35mm equivalent: 27 to 450mm) easily covers most commonly used focal lengths, going further than many comparable lenses by offering 300mm reach and a maximum aperture of f/5.6 at the telephoto end of the range. From wide landscapes to tight portraits and action photography, this lens will capture it all.
Sharp and steady
Complementing the versatile focal range is Nikon’s second-generation Vibration Reduction system (VRII) — that allows substantially sharper handheld images across the zoom range and dramatically reduces image blur, even when taking extreme telephoto shots. Three Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass and three aspherical lens elements provide high resolution and superior contrast, and the nine blade rounded diaphragm opening makes out-of-focus elements blend together smoothly. Nikon's compact Silent Wave Motor technology (SWM) combines fast and precise auto focus with super-quiet operation.
Built to travel
A practical zoom-lock switch keeps the lens secure when not in use, and it boasts a metal mount with rubber sealing for protection against dust and moisture.
This lens comes with a lens case CL-1120 and hood HB-58.
RRP: £519.99 / Eur 613.00
Sales start date: 28th June 2012
London, UK, 14th June 2012: Nikon today announces a new FX-format zoom lens with broad 24-85mm focal range, compact build and Vibration Reduction. With a versatile reach from wide-angle up to telephoto and a lightweight body, it’s a smart choice for FX camera users looking for a multi-purpose lens that doesn’t cut any corners when it comes to image quality.
Hiro Sebata, Product Manager, Professional products at Nikon UK, says: “The new 24-85mm is a high quality, versatile lens that is ideal for a variety of shooting scenarios; from portrait to landscape to low light situations. With a compact build, this new lens perfectly complements Nikon’s FX format bodies to produce stunning results.”
Multi-tasker
Developed to be especially compact for an FX-format zoom lens, this 24-85mm NIKKOR is ideal for people who want a lens that offers the freedom to shoot a wide variety of day-to-day moments and subjects. The versatile 24-85mm range covers most commonly used focal lengths with ease: from landscapes to portraits, you can go fairly wide or zoom into distant objects without needing to change lenses.
Sharp and Steady
Complementing the versatile focal range is Nikon’s second-generation Vibration Reduction technology (VRII) — that allows substantially sharper handheld images across the zoom range and dramatically reduces image blur, especially when shooting towards the telephoto end of the range. VRII also enables you to shoot using shutter speeds up to four stops slower, enabling you to shoot more effectively when shooting in low light.
Nikon’s Super Integrated Coating ensures superb colour reproduction, while Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) glass and three aspherical lens elements help deliver stunning sharpness and contrast, even at maximum aperture.
Good to Go
Well-balanced in terms of size, weight, price and image quality — and boasting a weather-sealed mount — this lens offers a worthwhile combination of precision NIKKOR optics, broad focal range and lightweight build for people on the go. This lens comes with a lens case CL-1118 and hood HB-63.
London, UK, 14th June 2012: Nikon today announced that total production of NIKKOR lenses for interchangeable lens cameras reached seventy million at the beginning of June 2012. The figure is up five million since production reached sixty five million in October 2011. Moreover, total production of AF-S lenses equipped with the Silent Wave Motor (SWM), the autofocus motor developed by Nikon, has reached 30 million.
Since 2011 and the 65 million milestone, Nikon has continued to actively develop new products under the NIKKOR brand and has released four 1 NIKKOR lenses with a simple design in various colours for the compact and lightweight Nikon 1 J1 and Nikon 1 V1 AC-IL system cameras – the first two models in the Nikon 1 series. In addition, Nikon launched new FX-format compatible NIKKOR lenses that maximize the potential of high-performance cameras such as the new D4 flagship D-SLR camera, and the 36.3 million pixel D800 and D800E D-SLRs.
Thirty million SWM-equipped NIKKOR lenses
The Silent Wave Motor, or SWM, is an ultrasonic autofocus motor developed by Nikon. Nikon’s SWM converts ‘traveling waves’ into rotational energy to focus the optics. This enables extremely smooth, quiet and comfortable autofocusing. Among the first lenses for which Nikon adopted the SWM was the Ai AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/2.8D IF-ED, released in 1996. Since then, the SWM has been built into a total of 58* different lenses of all types, from ultra-wide-angle to super telephoto DX- and FX-format lenses, zoom lenses, and even Micro lenses. It has been adopted for more than 90% of NIKKOR lenses currently manufactured.
*The total number of NIKKOR lenses equipped with the SWM currently available (as of June 14, 2012).
The NIKKOR brand
As the brand name for Nikon lenses, NIKKOR has become synonymous with high-performance, high-quality SLR lenses. The NIKKOR name comes from adding "R", a common practice in the naming of photographic lenses at the time the name was established, to "Nikko", the Romanized abbreviation for Nippon Kogaku K.K. In 1933, the large-format lens for aerial photography was released with the name Aero-NIKKOR.
NIKKOR has always been ahead of the times. The OP Fisheye-NIKKOR 10mm f/5.6 fisheye lens for SLR cameras, released in 1968, was the world's first lens to incorporate aspherical lens elements. What's more, NIKKOR lenses for the latest SLR cameras utilize a number of Nikon's own cutting-edge technologies, including Nano Crystal Coat, which virtually eliminates internal lens element reflections across a wide range of wavelengths.
The current line-up of NIKKOR lenses for Nikon SLR and Nikon 1 system cameras offers a rich variety of lenses, including fisheye lenses, super wide-angle to super telephoto lenses, micro lenses and PC-E lenses.
Although we've not heard anything officially from Canon UK, the Canon Japan site is today claiming the EOS-1D X will go on sale from June 20, 2012. Meanwhile rumors continue to circulate that Canon will announce an 'affordable full-frame camera' (priced below the current EOS 5D Mk III) and probably using STM technology, a 36 or 48MP replacement for the Canon EOS-1Ds Mk II and a brand new 'mirrorless' entry. We've been told that at least one of these is imminent, though we're inclined to believe that all three are likely to be announced just prior to Photokina (Sept 18- 23, 2012).
Apple has announced Aperture version 3.3, a 554.9MB update that shares the photo-library with iPhoto (v9.3 or later), views camera-generated previews for faster browsing of RAW files, and features support for AVCHD video and a number of updated tools. Please see below for a full list of the new features. The update is available now for existing Aperture users (from the Apple icon in the main menu, simply select Software update... ).
We've had a chance to update our photo-library, and can report Aperture 3.3 is a significant update to previous versions. Not only has it 'fixed' our mainly broken library (which was the main reason we switched to Lightroom), but it's now also lighteningly fast.
Aperture is available from the Mac App store for $79.99 / £54.99
What's New in Aperture 3.3
• New unified photo library for both iPhoto (v 9.3 or later) and Aperture; no import/export required; Faces, Places, slideshows, albums and web sharing work across both applications
• Support for AVCHD video has been added
• Aperture now lets you use camera-generated previews for faster browsing of RAW files immediately after import
• Highlights & Shadows tool has been updated to deliver higher-quality results and work with extended range data
• A new Auto Enhance button has been added to the Adjustments panel
• White Balance tool now includes Skin Tone and Natural Gray modes to simplify color balance
• Auto button has been added to the White Balance tool for one-click color balancing
• Set Desktop command has been added to Share menu so you can set a desktop background from within Aperture
• A new Manual option allows you to drag and drop projects to customize sort order in the Projects view
• New preference allows you to set the background brightness of the full screen browser
• Facebook, Flickr, and MobileMe albums are now displayed as thumbnails in the main window when accounts are selected in the source list
• Minor terminology changes, including "Original" instead of "Master" and "Info" instead of "Metadata"
• Source list includes a new "Recent" section, showing Last Import and recently-viewed projects
• Raw Fine Tuning is no longer displayed in the Adjustments panel by default
• Faces can now be named by dragging them from the Unnamed Faces browser to existing snapshots on the corkboard
• The Faces corkboard now includes a menu that allows you to set the order of face snapshots
• Newly designed monochrome source list and toolbar icons
• Addresses numerous issues related to overall performance and stability
Apple has today announced updates to MacBook Air and MacBook Pro, adding faster processors, graphics, memory, flash storage and USB 3 connectivity. Both MacBook models feature the latest Core i5 and i7 processors (up to 1.8GHz on the MacBook Air) and 2.9GHz with Turbo Boost speeds up to 3.6 GHz on the MacBook Pro.
The 11-inch and 13-inch MacBook Air models feature the new integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000, which Apple claims is up to 60 percent faster than the previous iteration. Flash storage remains either 64/128GB, configurable up to 512GB, but is four times faster Apple add. Both models come with faster 4GB memory configurable to 8GB, and feature a new FaceTime HD camera that delivers high-definition 720p. The 11-inch starts at $999 /£849, 13-inch starts at $1199 / £999.
Meanwhile, a variant of the 15-inch MacBook Pro is available with a 5.1 million pixel 2880x1800 (220ppi) Retina display, all new flash architecture and a 7-hour battery life. Both the 13-inch and 'standard' 15-inch MacBook Pro, however, can be configured with a 1TB hard drive or SSDs up to 512GB that are up to twice as fast as the previous generation, Apple claim. Prices start at $1199 / £999 for the 13-inch, $1799 / £1499 for the 15-inch. The 15-inch with Retina display starts at $2199 / £1799.
The updated MacBook Air and MacBook Pro are available through the Apple Online Store (www.apple.com), Apple’s retail stores and Apple Authorised Resellers.
SAN FRANCISCO—June 11, 2012—Apple today updated MacBook Air with the latest Intel Core processors, faster graphics and flash storage that is up to twice as fast as the previous generation.* The current generation 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pro have also been updated with the latest Intel Core processors and powerful discrete graphics from NVIDIA. Apple’s popular AirPort Express has been redesigned to include features previously available only in AirPort Extreme.
“Today we’ve updated the entire MacBook line with faster processors, graphics, memory, flash storage and USB 3 connectivity,” said Philip Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “We’ve made the world’s best portable family even better and we think users are going to love the performance advances in both the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro.”
Available in 11-inch and 13-inch designs, the new MacBook Air features the latest Core i5 and Core i7 dual-core processors and is perfect for browsing the web, making movies and managing photos. The new integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 is up to 60 percent faster and gives the MacBook Air plenty of power to tackle games and videos.** MacBook Air features flash storage up to four times faster than traditional hard drives for instant-on performance and fast access to your apps and data. Now with 4GB of faster memory, configurable up to 8GB, you can run memory-intensive apps with ease. MacBook Air also features a new FaceTime HD camera that delivers high-definition 720p.
The 13-inch MacBook Pro features the latest Intel Core i5 or Core i7 dual-core processors up to 2.9 GHz with Turbo Boost speeds up to 3.6 GHz. The 15-inch MacBook Pro features the latest Intel Core i7 quad-core processors up to 2.7 GHz with Turbo Boost speeds up to 3.7 GHz and NVIDIA GeForce GT 650M discrete graphics. Both the 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pro can be configured with a 1TB hard drive or SSDs up to 512GB that are up to twice as fast as the previous generation.
MacBook Air and MacBook Pro both feature a high-speed Thunderbolt port and two USB 3.0 ports to easily connect to external displays and a wide variety of high performance peripherals. The 13-inch MacBook Air, and 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pro deliver up to 7 hours of wireless battery life, and the 11-inch MacBook Air delivers up to 5 hours. Mac notebook batteries use advanced chemistry and Adaptive Charging technology to provide up to 1,000 recharges.***
The MacBook Air and MacBook Pro ship with OS X Lion. Starting today, customers who purchase a Mac are eligible for a free copy of OS X Mountain Lion when it becomes available. Mountain Lion introduces innovative features including the all new Messages app, Notification Center, system-wide Sharing, AirPlay Mirroring, Game Center and the enhanced security of Gatekeeper. With iCloud built into the foundation of OS X, Mountain Lion makes it easier than ever to keep your content up to date across all your devices.
Priced at just £79, the new AirPort Express features a completely redesigned compact enclosure and new wireless and connectivity capabilities. Simultaneous dual-band 802.11n Wi-Fi allows users to easily create a network that delivers optimal performance and range. The AirPort Express also features an audio-out port to connect external powered speakers or an A/V receiver and use AirPlay to wirelessly stream from iTunes on your Mac or iOS device. A USB 2.0 port allows you to share a printer wirelessly over your network, and an additional ethernet port lets you connect to other computers and network devices. Setup is built right into OS X and iOS and can be done in just a few simple steps, and with AirPort Utility 6.0 for OS X Lion and iOS you can access a visual map of your network for viewing and reconfiguring devices.
Pricing & Availability
The 11-inch MacBook Air comes with a 1.7 GHz processor, 4GB of memory and is available with 64GB of flash storage starting at £849 inc VAT (£707.50 ex VAT), and 128GB of flash storage starting at £929 inc VAT (£774.17 ex VAT). The 13-inch MacBook Air comes with a 1.8 GHz processor, 4GB of memory and is available with 128GB of flash storage starting at £999 inc VAT (£832.50 ex VAT), and 256GB of flash storage starting at £1,249 inc VAT (£1,040.83 ex VAT). Configure-to-order options include a 2.0 GHz Intel Core i7 processor, up to 8GB of 1600 MHz DDR3 onboard memory and up to 512GB flash storage.
The 13-inch MacBook Pro is available with a 2.5 GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor, 4GB of memory and 500GB hard drive starting at £999 inc VAT (£832.50 ex VAT), and with a 2.9 GHz dual-core Intel Core i7 processor, 8GB of memory and 750GB hard drive starting at £1,249 inc VAT (£1,040.83 ex VAT). The 15-inch MacBook Pro is available with a 2.3 GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 processor, 4GB of memory, Intel HD Graphics 4000 and NVIDIA GeForce GT 650M, and 500GB hard drive starting at £1,499 inc VAT (£1,249.17 ex VAT); and with a 2.6 GHz quad-core Intel Core i7 processor, 8GB of memory, Intel HD Graphics 4000 and NVIDIA GeForce GT 650M, and 750GB hard drive starting at £1,799 inc VAT (£1,499.17 ex VAT). Configure-to-order options include faster quad-core processors up to 2.7 GHz, additional hard drive capacity up to 1TB, up to 8GB of memory and solid state storage up to 512GB.
The updated MacBook Air and MacBook Pro are available through the Apple Online Store (www.apple.com/uk), Apple’s retail stores and Apple Authorised Resellers.
Jessops the UK retailer has the new 40mm f/2.8 STM pancake listed here for pre-order at £229.99. The full-frame lens was announced last week and provides full-time AF during video capture on the new APS-C format EOS 650D. Note, the camera was launched with the EF-S 18-135mm IS STM - you will need a STM enabled lens to use AF during video-capture.
Jessops also has the new image stabilized 28mm f/2.8 listed at £729.95 but for special order only - the 24mm f/2.8 is currently out of stock . Neither are STM enabled (they're USM instead).
Samyang Optics has announced a 8mm f/2.8 fisheye lens specifically for Sony NEX, and Samsung NX cameras. The new lens features 10 elements arranged in 8 groups, and includes one asphere and two ED (extra-low dispersion) glass elements. With an angle of view of 180-degrees, and mimimum focusing distance of 0.3m, the manual focus Samyang 8mm 1:2.8 UMC Fish-eye is due for release early July 2012 with an expected street price of £279.99 / Euros 349.99.
The Fuji XF60mm f/2.4 R Macro is a light-weight and compact fixed focal length lens, the equivalent of a 90mm in angle of view, which was announced alongside the Fuji X-Pro1. Although billed as a macro, with a minimum working distance of 26.7cm and maximum magnification of 0.5X, the 60mm can be thought of as a highly versatile short-tele for portraits and occasional close-ups. Before we publish a full review of the XF60mm f/2.4R Macro and Fuji X-Pro 1 camera, we've posted a few uncropped samples of what this lens is capable of. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Butterfly World Project for allowing unrestricted access to their beautiful butterflies and gardens.
1/800 sec at f/2.8, ISO 200 (handheld).
1/500 sec at f/2.4, ISO 200.
1/100 sec at f/4, ISO 800 (handheld).
1/640 sec at f/4, ISO 800 (handheld).
Canon has announced a new 40mm f/2.8 'pancake' lens for full-frame cameras. The 40mm has a electro-magnetic diaphragm (EMD - a feature of all EOS lenses) which is said to have 'full control' over the diaphragm - presumably step-less control as per cine lenses, but we're waiting for confirmation. The new lens also features a stepper motor (STM) particularly favored for use with CD AF systems, permitting 'smoother' AF during video capture than previous ring-type or ultrasonic motors.
Indeed this suggests Canon thinks a new motor type is necessary for CD AF systems to work effectively during video capture and has released the new EOS Rebel T4i / 650D with a hybrid CD/PD-AF system (located on the CMOS imaging chip). Although Canon has also intoduced a EF-S 18-135mm STM zoom to accompany the new camera, the 40mm f//2.8 is a full-frame lens, so we can expect to see a new full-frame video-enabled camera from Canon with a hybrid CP/PD AF system in the near future. Could this be the mirrorless camera Canon is rumoured to be launching this year?
The EF 40mm f/2.8 STM is available from 15th June 2012, priced at $199 / £229.99/Euro 279.99 RRP incl. VAT.
EF 40mm f/2.8 STM – super-slim, high image quality
The EF 40mm f/2.8 STM is Canon’s first EF pancake lens with a fixed focal length of 40mm and wide f/2.8 aperture, making it ideal for photographers who want a versatile, compact and lightweight lens for portrait, reportage, travel or landscape situations. Precision control over the circular, seven-blade aperture is enabled by the EMD, producing a beautiful bokeh effect and an aspheric lens with Super spectra coatings ensures optimal image quality from the centre of the lens to the periphery for stunning shots of practically any subject.
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