Independent lens maker Tamron has today unveiled a 17-50mm zoom lens specifically designed for use with digital SLRs that have an APS-C size imaging sensor.

Due to hit UK stores in May at a price yet to be confirmed the lens is designed to deliver the 35mm viewing angle equivalent of a 26-78mm zoom.

Billed as ?lightweight, compact and fast? the f/2.8 newcomer weighs 434g and is around 81mm long.

It will be compatible with Nikon AF-D, Canon AF and Konica Minolta AF-D lens mounts.

Claimed features include a minimum focusing distance of 27cm across the whole zoom range.

For more details about the Tamron SP AF 17-50mm f/2.8 XR Di II LD Aspherical (IF) see upcoming issues of AP.

? Tamron has revamped its 28-200mm and 70-300mm zooms to enable compatibility with both film and digital SLRs. The new Digitally Integrated (Di) optics will be out in May and June respectively