Panasonic introduces a fast ultra-wide-angle prime lens for its LUMIX G series. The LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7 is KB-equivalent to an 18mm lens and comes with some optimizations for video operation. For example, autofocus is said to operate silently, while manual focus can be set to either linear or non-linear. The entire focus range can be swept in 90 to 360 degrees in the linear setting (90 to 1080 on the GH6); the minimum focus distance is just 9.5 cm. Focus breathing is said to be effectively suppressed.
LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7
The wide-angle optics consist of twelve lens elements in nine groups, including two aspherical lenses, two ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) lenses, and one UHR (Ultra High Refractive Index) lens that suppresses chromatic aberration. The aspherical lenses are said to correct aberrations such as astigmatism and provide high resolution performance.
At only about 130g and 52mm in length, the MicroFourThirds lens turns out to be very compact. It is dust- and splash-proof and is expected to hit the market in the summer for about 500 euros.
;)