Tamron has announced a nice-looking 24-70mm f/2.8 lens that has image stabilization (or “Vibration Compensation” as Tamron says) built into it.  The new lens has a silent drive AF that should put into the conversation with Sigma’s 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, as well as an alternative to the Canon and Nikon 24-70mm f/2.8 lenses.

I don’t think any other manufacturers offer a stabilized 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, so this makes Tamron somewhat unique.  Surprisingly, it weighs 825g, which puts it in the same weight category as other 24-70mm f/2.8 lenses – and it is, in fact, lighter than some of them.

Tamron hasn’t announced any pricing for the new lens; however, the feature-set and touted quality lead me to believe it will be at or above the $1000-mark.  When it is made available, you should be able to find it for Canon, Nikon and Sony mounts.

Full press release and spec list below. [Read more…]