Panasonic Unveils High-End “X” Lenses for Micro Four Thirds Cameras
Today Panasonic unveiled a new line of Lumix X lenses for Micro Four Thirds cameras, introducing two new zoom lenses: the 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 and the 45-175mm f/4-5.6. What’s unique about them is that they’re both power zoom lenses, meaning the focal length is controlled electronically using a rocker on the side of the lens. The 45-175mm also has standard zoom and focus rings, but these are electronic controls as well.
Basically, Panasonic has built-high quality interchangeable camera lenses that function like the lenses on fixed lens digital cameras. They feature a solid build-quality (e.g. a metal mount), an anti-glare coating, and built-in image stabilization.
Available in either black or silver, the 14-42mm will cost $400 and the 45-175mm $450 when they’re released in October and September, respectively.
Update: Panasonic is reportedly also planning to release a 12-35mm f/2 and a 35-100 f/2 in 2012.
