Tamron SP 70-200mm f/2.8 Di VC USD G2

£TBA/$1299 www.tamron.eu

Tamron’s new G2 version of its 70-200mm f/2.8 telephoto lens features a revised optical construction boasting 23 elements in 17 groups. The new layout is touted as delivering increased sharpness and contrast reproduction over the previous lens, while reflections and flare are minimised by Tamron’s so-called eBAND (Extended Bandwidth & Angular-Dependency) coating.

Bokeh should also be enhanced by the new optical design, as well as the new circular nine-bladed diaphragm, while chromatic aberration will be kept at bay by XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) and LD (Low Dispersion) glass elements.

But arguably the most significant revision is improved Vibration Compensation, which Tamron claims will enable a five-stop shutter speed reduction. The VC system can be used in three modes, depending on whether you want to prioritise the stability of the viewfinder preview, achieve maximum image stabilisation, or pan with your subject.

The lens also features better aperture precision courtesy of electromagnetic diaphragm adjustment, plus it gets a revised Ultra Sonic Drive AF system with improved speed and accuracy over the previous model.

Minimum focusing distance is down from 1.3m to 0.95m, there’s a weather-sealed lens barrel, and a fluorine coating on the front element to repel water, dust and fingerprints. First impressions_

Tamron has been delivering some excellent lenses of late, and this new 70-200mm f/2.8 G2 may well prove to be a serious rival to Nikon’s class-leading 70-200mm f/2.8E.