Nikon has introduced a new 2x teleconverter, the AF-S TC-20E III, claiming it to be the world’s first teleconverter with an aspherical lens element. The new AF-S Teleconverter TC-20E III is designed to provide a seamless fit with the NIKKOR range of compatible telephoto lenses, and features rubber seals for body mount, tough release mechanism for intensive use and an oversized button for fast removal with gloved hands. It comes with newly designed caps and a practical storage pouch to protect it when not in use. The teleconverter, which goes between the body and the lens, causes a 2-stop light loss but maintains the closest focusing distance of the lens while doubling its maximum reproduction ratio. Optically, it is quite a complex design with seven elements (including an aspherical one) arranged in five groups. Going on sale on 29 January, the new AF-S Teleconverter TC-20E III has a recommended retail price of £449.99 / €533.

Nikon Press Release

NIKON INTRODUCES THE AF-S TELECONVERTER TC-20E III: CLASS LEADING IMAGE QUALITY FOR NIKKOR TELEPHOTO LENSES

RRP: £449.99 / €533.00
Sales start date: 29th January 2010

Nikon UK is launching the new AF-S TELECONVERTER TC-20E III, the world’s first teleconverter with an aspherical lens element. With a completely new optical design, the compact new teleconverter offers class leading image quality for wildlife and sports photography.

Zurab Kiknadze, Product Manager for Lenses, Accessories and Software, Nikon Europe says: “The ground breaking optics in the new AF-S TELECONVERTER TC-20E III allow photographers to extend the reach of their NIKKOR telephoto lens with the confidence that there will be no comprises on image quality.”

World’s first teleconverter with aspherical lens element
The AF-S TELECONVERTER TC-20E III is the world’s first teleconverter with an aspherical lens element, which delivers brilliant image quality in a compact package. Completely compatible with the latest VR, autofocus and metering coupling systems, the AF-S TELECONVERTER TC-20E III is a ‘must have’ addition to any sports or wildlife photographer’s kit.

Built for professional demands
The new AF-S TELECONVERTER TC-20E III is designed to provide a seamless fit with the NIKKOR range of compatible telephoto lenses, and features rubber seals for body mount, tough release mechanism for intensive use and an oversized button for fast removal with gloved hands. It comes with newly designed caps and a practical storage pouch to protect it when not in use.

About teleconverters
Teleconverters are attached between the camera body and telephoto lens to multiply focal length without affecting closest focusing distance. This magnification factor comes at the cost of reduced light transmission which reduces the effective minimum aperture of the lens in use. The AF-S TELECONVERTER TC-20E III reduces aperture by two stops. So when attached to an f/2 aperture lens (such as the AF-S VR 200mm f/2G) the minimum aperture becomes f/4.

Specifications

Max/min aperture
Reduces by 2 stops

Lens construction
7 elements in 5 groups (one Aspherical lens)

Closest focusing distance    
Same as that of a prime lens

Maximum reproduction ratio
Double that of a prime lens

Supplied accessories
Teleconverter Cap BF-3A, Rear Lens Cap LF-1, Flexible Lens Pouch CL-0715

Diameter x length
Approx. 66 x 46mm/2.6 x 1.8 in.

Weight
Approx. 330g/11.6 0z

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