Panasonic details the H-X2550, telephoto zoom lens with F1.7 aperture in all focal lengths

The Leica DG Vario-Summilux 25-50mm / F1.7 ASPH (or H-X2550) is the latest interchangeable telephoto lens developed by Panasonic.

Le H-X2550 is designed to be combined with the HX1025. Both lenses cover a focusing distance ranging from wide-angle to telephoto, functioning as seven independent fixed focal length lenses that “provide the same level of detail”. The two lenses also feature an F1.7 aperture throughout the zoom range, which provides a bokeh effect described by Panasonic as “beautiful.”

Composed of 16 elements in 11 groups, Panasonic’s H-X2550 features one aspherical lens et three ED (ultra-low dispersion) lenses that suppress axial chromatic aberration and magnification chromatic aberration. The aspherical lenses also correct distortion and spherical aberration, while facilitating compact size and light weight. Moreover, its up to 240 fps sensor enables high-speed, high-precision autofocusing.

Stability and quiet operation

Panasonic’s H-X2550 excels in providing quiet operation achieved by the internal focus drive system. In parallel, the stepless aperture ring and microstep drive system in the aperture control section help the camera adapt to changes in brightness when zooming or panning.

The system has been designed with stability and versatility in mind. The optical design achieves barycentric stability to minimize image shifts during zooming. In addition, the focusing ring is equipped with a manual focus clutch and ensures “intuitive and accurate” focusing. Similarly, it also includes a mechanism that suppresses focus breathing throughout the zoom range.

The H-X2550 has a minimum focal length of 0.28mm at the wide end, 0.31 at the telephoto end and a maximum magnification ratio of 0.42x (equivalent to a 35mm camera). Its rugged, dust- and splash-resistant design allows operation in adverse conditions, even at minus 10 degrees Celsius, for increased mobility. It will be available from the end of August.

Update for the Lumix S1R, S1 and S5

Panasonic has also released a firmware update for three of its S-Series Full-Frame cameras: the S1R, S1 et S5.

Among the new features for S1 and S5 is the ability to record in Magie noire BRUT up to 5.9K 12bit, in addition to Apple PRORES RAW recording, which is now available. This update also allows new styles to be added to images, such as L. Classic Neo or L. Monochrome S.