GEAR MINI TESTS
We try out a unique Sigma zoom lens, feature-packed DJI RS 4 Pro gimbal, Blackmagic editing panel, Rode’s latest audio kit and more
WORDS ADAM DUCKWORTH
SIGMA 28-45MM F/1.8 DG DN ART LENS £1299/$1349 sigmauk.com
This new superfast 28-45mm zoom is the perfect example of Sigma’s new direction for high-end lenses. Long gone are the days of its reputation as simply a manufacturer of cut-price versions of camera-brand optics. Sigma is now recognised for its high- quality products, which prove as good as or even better than the big names – but still costing significantly less. Helped by the quality of the Art range of AF primes and zooms – which are packed with the latest tech – as well as the cinema series of manual lenses, the Japanese brand can certainly claim to be a premium brand. But Sigma has said it wants to be known as a true innovator, designing lenses that push the boundaries of what’s possible – and that other manufacturers simply don’t offer. And the new 28-45mm f/1.8 DG DN Art is the first example. It’s not just a clone of other lenses, but breaks new ground as the world’s first zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras with a constant f/1.8 aperture throughout the entire range. Sigma used to make an 18-35mm f/1.8 zoom for crop-sensor DSLRs, which offers roughly the same focal length though is nowhere near as advanced in terms of autofocus or image quality. Embracing the hybrid nature of many mirrorless camera users, this new optic offers optical quality and light-gathering capabilities to rival prime lenses, while providing video-
HEAVY METAL This Sigma zoom may not be lightweight, but that’s the price you pay for speed
friendly design and functionality. This includes an internal zoom design to aid balancing on gimbals, minimal focus breathing, fast and quiet AF motors, a more linear manual focus feel, plus a separate aperture ring that can be de-clicked for seamless exposure adjustments or locked to prevent accidental changes. With two AFL buttons and a focus mode switch on the body, that’s a lot of spec filmmakers will appreciate. This is not just a lens for stills shooters who want to lighten the load of their kitbag by hauling around one zoom instead of three primes – but it offers that too. Obviously, you don’t get something for nothing; there must be compromise along the way. In the case of the new Sigma zoom, it’s the size and weight compared to a prime, and the relatively limited zoom range which goes from 28mm wide angle to 45mm, which is just short of what many feel is the ‘standard’ 50mm focal length.
SPECIFICATIONS
Focal length: 28-45mm Mount: Leica L, Sony E Image coverage: Full-frame Aperture: F/1.8-16 Aperture blades: 11, rounded Construction: 18 elements in 15 groups with 3 aspherical and 5 Special Low Dispersion Image stabilisation: None Minimum focusing: 30.2cm/11.9in
Filter size: 82mm Dimensions (wxl): 87.8x151.4mm/3.5x4.8in Weight: 960g/2.1lb
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