Sigma A 85 mm f/1.4 DG HSM review - Introduction

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Sigma A 85 mm f/1.4 DG HSM

16 November 2016

Szymon Starczewski

1. Introduction

Older 1.4/85 lenses used to be relative simple Planar constructions containing 6-7 elements inside. Such models like the Pentax smc FA 85 mm f/1.4 (IF) and the Nikkor AF 85 mm f/1.4D IF were already more complex. Still, compared to them, the Sigma 85 mm f/1.4 EX DG HSM, launched in 2010, with 11 elements positioned in 8 groups, seemed to be a very modern, optically complex device which, additionally, was a joy to use. Small wonder Sigma company weren’t that keen to launch its successor. After all even new Zeisses, the Otus and the Milvus, two lenses being able to break resolution records, didn’t feature more elements than the Sigma EX.

Accordingly the Art line-up consisting of full frame fixe focus lenses as fast as f/1.4 started with 20, 24, 35 and 50 mm models. However, the next step was only a matter of time. In September 2016 the Sigma A 85 mm f/1.4 DG HSM was shown and we got its first specimen at the beginning of November so now we are able to present its full test.

We would like to thank the Sigma ProCentrum company for very quick delivery of the final specimen of the tested lens.

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You are also invited to get acquainted with our test procedure, described in the article "How do we test lenses?" If you feel it’s still not enough, please go to our FAQ section where you can find some further explanation.