Today, Tamron announced their new SP 150-600mm F5-6.3 Di VC USD SP G2, with the “G2” indicating this is their second generation of 150-600mm zoom lenses.

Apart from the cosmetic and physical differences to the lens’ frame, the 150-600 also received an optical design refresh with 21 elements (one more compared to the first-gen 150-600mm F5-6.3 Di VC USD SP) in 13 groups. Three LD (Low Dispersion) elements fight chromatic aberrations and Tamron’s eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) Coating improves light transmission and anti-reflection.

Designed for the outdoors, the 150-600 G2 features a protective flourine coating on the front element and moisture-resistant seals throughout the lens body.

Minimum focus distance is reduced from 2.7m on the first generation, A011 model to 2.2m on this new A022 model. An Ultrasonic Silent Drive (USD) focus motor ensures quick and accurate autofocus even with moving subjects. VC (Vibration Compensation) features three modes depending on how the camera will be moving and will make up for 4.5 stops.

Tamron also has new 1.4x and 2.0x teleconverters, TC-X14 and TC-X20, respectively, which are currently only compatible with the new 150-600mm G2 (more compatible lenses will be added in the future). Both increase maximum focal length while retaining full autofocus and Vibration Compensation functions. Like the 150-600mm G2, both teleconverters are built to endure outdoor conditions with dust and moistures seals all around.

The new 150-600mm F5-6.3 Di VC USD SP G2 will be available (for Canon and Nikon mounts) in October at $1799.99. Pricing and release dates were unavailable for the TC-X14 and TC-X20 at press time.

For more information, see the press release at Tamron.ca.