Along with the introduction of the A850 DSLR, Sony has introduced the 28-75mm SAM lens.  At around $800, the new 28-75mm becomes a more cost effective option over the Sony Zeiss 24-70mm f/2.8 lens.   The SAM moniker in the new lens stands for Smooth Autofocus Motor.  The 28-75mm lens consists of 14 elements in 16 groups, which includes 4 aspherical elements.  Filter thread size is 67mm.

On Sony’s crop-sensor cameras, which includes everything but the A850 and A900, the 28-75mm focal length produces an angle of view equivalent to roughly 42-113mm on a full frame camera.

The Sony 28-75mm f/2.8 SAM lens should be available in November 2009 for about $800.  Check availability on Amazon.com.