NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S has been released

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RichF

RichF

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6.4 Lbs, 15", Nikon rumors reports price of $14,000 US

NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S | Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens

The NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S is ideal for sports, action and wildlife, with an f/2.8 aperture, 400mm of reach and a built-in teleconverter.
www.nikonusa.com

nikonrumors.com

Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S mirrorless lens for Z-mount announced, priced at $14k - Nikon Rumors

As already reported, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S mirrorless lens for Z-mount is now officially announced with a price tag of $14k and a new Meso Amorphous coating. Here are the details: Pre-orders: US + Canada Europe Adorama B&H Photo Amazon Paul’s Photo Service Photo Camera Canada...
nikonrumors.com nikonrumors.com
 
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This is not good....hardly any longer and barely any heavier than a Sony 400GM and price is not absurd.....oh and it take the external TCs....I was hoping it wouldn't be so perfect so I could ignore this lens, divest my Nikon kit and buy a Sony 400GM....now I've got a lot of thinking to do on this.....arggghhh....

Amazing lens anyway you look at it....
 
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arbitrage said:
This is not good....hardly any longer and barely any heavier than a Sony 400GM and price is not absurd.....oh and it take the external TCs....I was hoping it wouldn't be so perfect so I could ignore this lens, divest my Nikon kit and buy a Sony 400GM....now I've got a lot of thinking to do on this.....arggghhh....

Amazing lens anyway you look at it....
Click to expand...
Nikon giveth (lower Z9 price) and Nikon taketh away (higher 400 TC price).

Did not expect it to be much different in size and weight from the Sony and Canon ML 400 F/2.8 lens

Sony is 6.2x14.1", 6.4 Lbs, Canon is 6.4x14.4", 6.4 Lbs, NIkon is 6.2x15", 6.5 Lbs. A bit amazing that they could keep the weight the same. Added length probably due to extra space need for TC.
 
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arbitrage said:
This is not good....hardly any longer and barely any heavier than a Sony 400GM and price is not absurd.....oh and it take the external TCs....I was hoping it wouldn't be so perfect so I could ignore this lens, divest my Nikon kit and buy a Sony 400GM....now I've got a lot of thinking to do on this.....arggghhh....

Amazing lens anyway you look at it....
Click to expand...
As far as super teles go, Nikon just knows how to attract (and retain) people especially those into wildlife 😃
 
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Prashant Prakash said:
Awesome.. also read in Nikon Rumours that it supports both 1.4 and 2x TC :)

nikonrumors.com

Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S mirrorless lens for Z-mount announced, priced at $14k - Nikon Rumors

As already reported, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S mirrorless lens for Z-mount is now officially announced with a price tag of $14k and a new Meso Amorphous coating. Here are the details: Pre-orders: US + Canada Europe Adorama B&H Photo Amazon Paul’s Photo Service Photo Camera Canada...
nikonrumors.com nikonrumors.com
Click to expand...
I saw that, too. Good news. Perhaps we will be able to stack TCs, if anyone of us can afford this beast
 
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I'm impressed Nikon kept it relatively short, considering the integral TC14.
"Approximately 156 mm (maximum diameter) x 380 mm (from lens mount reference surface to lens tip)..." Nikon USA press release

Okay, we are right on lottery on size estimates, by my scaling ratio off the Roadmap image. I slightly overestimated the size of this 400 f2.8S. This pushes up the potential positive aspects of the haptics of the 800 f6.3S PF.
We can look forward to a 800 well under 2.9kg, as it must surely be lighter than this 400 S, likely around 2.5kg and approx 133 x 370mm

arbitrage said:
This is not good....hardly any longer and barely any heavier than a Sony 400GM and price is not absurd.....oh and it take the external TCs....I was hoping it wouldn't be so perfect so I could ignore this lens, divest my Nikon kit and buy a Sony 400GM....now I've got a lot of thinking to do on this.....arggghhh....

Amazing lens anyway you look at it....
Click to expand...
fcotterill said:
see below for the rough estimates to get at 140 x 315 143 x 377 [EDIT] , and note similar estimates for the 400 PF - a f4.3 or f4.5. The outline of the 100-400 S shows the rear corner, which gives away the perspective in this photo - assuming it's not been photoshopped.
[EDIT] Note I have rechecked measurements and to add 400 f2.8S TC14, which showed up an error I had made. Fixing posts above and 400 f2.8 estimate = 162 x 390 mm which is indeed slightly longer than the 400 f2.8E FL - about the same length as the 500 f4E FL - so approx 24mm longer than 400 f2.8E

View attachment 28835
Click to expand...
 
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[edit] comparing the lens diagrams (images below) on Nikon Japan pages, the internal TC is a more complex optic compared to the design of Nikon's external TCs.

Kudos to Nikon's engineers who've designed a 400 f2.8 + Teleconverter to weigh only 2950g.

"Large-diameter super-telephoto lens with built-in teleconverter with high-resolution and beautiful bokeh for realistic depiction and high-speed, high-precision AF, regardless of whether it is a still image or video. Achieves a realistic depiction. The new coating "Meso-Amorphous Coat", which has the highest anti-reflection effect in the history of NIKKOR lenses, is used, and the synergistic effect with "Arneo Coat" provides clear images with good visibility even in backlight. In addition, the AF drive motor uses the "Silky Swift VCM (SSVCM)," which is a combination of Nikon's proprietary VCM * and "guide mechanism," for high-speed, high-precision, and quieter AF control than before. realization. In addition, the built-in teleconverter that expands the focal length by 1.4 times and the size and lightweight body that allows for carry-on into an aircraft demonstrate high mobility in a wide range of scenes and support professional image expression."
and it uses a new internal CPL C-PL460

400 f2.8S TC mtf lens diagram_Page_1.jpg
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400 f2.8S TC mtf lens diagram_Page_2.jpg
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Never expected this lens to be under 3KGs. I thought it'd be somewhere between 3.1-3.2 KGs. I am now totally excited about the 600 S and 800 PF. If the 600 S doesn't have an in-built TC, it will most likely be even lighter than the 400S, something like 2.7-2.8KGs and that'd be stunning! As for 800 PF, it may be under 2.5KGs. Making a tele lens choice is going to be really complicated now LoL

What i really don't understand is, some folks say they'd want to keep the 1.4TC attached to the 400S with the ability to go from 560 F4 to 784 F5.6. If thats the case, wouldn't it make better sense to rather buy a 600 F4 and keep a 1.4TC attached?

Now, i really wish Nikon came up with an external TC that has the same tech as the in-built TC. Removable TCs but the ability to flick a switch to turn it on or off

arbitrage said:
This is not good....hardly any longer and barely any heavier than a Sony 400GM and price is not absurd.....oh and it take the external TCs....I was hoping it wouldn't be so perfect so I could ignore this lens, divest my Nikon kit and buy a Sony 400GM....now I've got a lot of thinking to do on this.....arggghhh....

Amazing lens anyway you look at it....
Click to expand...
 
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thelordofthelight said:
Never expected this lens to be under 3KGs. I thought it'd be somewhere between 3.1-3.2 KGs. I am now totally excited about the 600 S and 800 PF. If the 600 S doesn't have an in-built TC, it will most likely be even lighter than the 400S, something like 2.7-2.8KGs and that'd be stunning! As for 800 PF, it may be under 2.5KGs. Making a tele lens choice is going to be really complicated now LoL

What i really don't understand is, some folks say they'd want to keep the 1.4TC attached to the 400S with the ability to go from 560 F4 to 784 F5.6. If that's the case, wouldn't it make better sense to rather buy a 600 F4 and keep a 1.4TC attached?

Now, i really wish Nikon came up with an external TC that has the same tech as the in-built TC. Removable TCs but the ability to flick a switch to turn it on or off
Click to expand...
I think Its like you are trying to get multiple primes in one, use the external TC when you are desperate for the reach but use it bare at 2.8 when in super low light and save a stop of ISO. compared to 600f4, maybe rather take a hit in a bit of sharpness by adding an external TC but not wanting to give away the 2.8. You can make a 4002.8 a 560( ∼ 600f4) but not vice versa. And if you ever get a chance to shoot at 400 and fill frame you are golden!
I have also seen people going for a 400 if they are into mammals and bigger wildlife as well, for them it is definitely an all-in-one lens.

But yes, the confusion between choosing a super tele has become even more pronounced especially after the 400tc release as we are now in high hopes of the 800pf 400pf and 600S as well!!
 
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Agreed. I use a 400 E FL with all the 3 TCs because i photograph mammals and birds. For mammals 600mm is often a bit too long so, 400 with in-built TC is such a versatile option and yes, there's something extraordinary about those frame filling images you get from the 400mm/2.8. All i m saying is if you are bird photographer and are going to use this lens mostly at 560mm then 600 F4 maybe a wiser choice. Between the 400S and 600 S i think it comes down to whether one wants 400mm at f2.8 vs 1200mm at F8.

Prashant Prakash said:
I think Its like you are trying to get multiple primes in one, use the external TC when you are desperate for the reach but use it bare at 2.8 when in super low light and save a stop of ISO. compared to 600f4, maybe rather take a hit in a bit of sharpness by adding an external TC but not wanting to give away the 2.8. You can make a 4002.8 a 560( ∼ 600f4) but not vice versa. And if you ever get a chance to shoot at 400 and fill frame you are golden!
I have also seen people going for a 400 if they are into mammals and bigger wildlife as well, for them it is definitely an all-in-one lens.

But yes, the confusion between choosing a super tele has become even more pronounced especially after the 400tc release as we are now in high hopes of the 800pf 400pf and 600S as well!!
Click to expand...
 
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Looks interesting. Unfortunately, my loving wife just said "no" followed by some mumbling comment that I didn't fully hear, something about putting her foot down but I'm not sure if what followed was "on your head".. :)

On a serious note, I am sure it will be an outstanding lens just like Nikon's other big prime lenses. Unless I win a lottery, have some unknown wealthy relative or Nikon decides to give me one because of my rugged good looks and boyish charm, I'll never be able to afford a $14K USD piece of gear. It is nice to dream though.
 
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RichF said:
6.4 Lbs, 15", Nikon rumors reports price of $14,000 US

NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S | Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens

The NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S is ideal for sports, action and wildlife, with an f/2.8 aperture, 400mm of reach and a built-in teleconverter.
www.nikonusa.com

nikonrumors.com

Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S mirrorless lens for Z-mount announced, priced at $14k - Nikon Rumors

As already reported, the Nikon NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S mirrorless lens for Z-mount is now officially announced with a price tag of $14k and a new Meso Amorphous coating. Here are the details: Pre-orders: US + Canada Europe Adorama B&H Photo Amazon Paul’s Photo Service Photo Camera Canada...
nikonrumors.com nikonrumors.com
Click to expand...
I'm starting a GoFundMe campaign for this lens, to celebrate my 70th birthday (today!). Then, all you fine, fellow photo buddies can help make it a reality for me! 😁
 
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thelordofthelight said:
Never expected this lens to be under 3KGs. I thought it'd be somewhere between 3.1-3.2 KGs. I am now totally excited about the 600 S and 800 PF. If the 600 S doesn't have an in-built TC, it will most likely be even lighter than the 400S, something like 2.7-2.8KGs and that'd be stunning! As for 800 PF, it may be under 2.5KGs. Making a tele lens choice is going to be really complicated now LoL
Click to expand...

Yes the weight of this new lens (400 f2.8 S) and the demonstrated high IQ of the S line glass to date makes me wonder if I should plan on adding a 600mm S when it appears. If the Z 2.0x TC works as well with a 600mm S as it does with the 70-200 f2.8 S that is 1200mm of quality IQ for birding when needed. A tempting thought for making a total move from F mount to Z telephotos.

If the road map had an 800 f5.6 on it instead of the f6.3 PF I wouldn't be thinking about the 600.
Or would I?
 
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thelordofthelight said:
Never expected this lens to be under 3KGs. I thought it'd be somewhere between 3.1-3.2 KGs. I am now totally excited about the 600 S and 800 PF. If the 600 S doesn't have an in-built TC, it will most likely be even lighter than the 400S, something like 2.7-2.8KGs and that'd be stunning! As for 800 PF, it may be under 2.5KGs. Making a tele lens choice is going to be really complicated now LoL

What i really don't understand is, some folks say they'd want to keep the 1.4TC attached to the 400S with the ability to go from 560 F4 to 784 F5.6. If thats the case, wouldn't it make better sense to rather buy a 600 F4 and keep a 1.4TC attached?

Now, i really wish Nikon came up with an external TC that has the same tech as the in-built TC. Removable TCs but the ability to flick a switch to turn it on or off
Click to expand...

It would probably make better sense to buy a 600S that had a built-in TC for sure. But I don't think the 600S will have it. The reason I'd want to run the 400S like that is for the instant versatility of the TC switch to go between my two most used focal lengths these days (600/840) or in the case of the 400...close enough at 560/784. There are a lot of instances out in the field where I don't end up putting on my TC and just rely on a deeper crop because of the inconvenience and also the risk of missing some closer subject a moment later. In the past few years I've also been making a mental list of all the situations where I would have liked to have had 400/2.8 instead of my 600/4. Now maybe that is no more than 25% of my shooting (if that) but again going out on certain days with certain subjects and having that instant 400/560 switching would make me very happy.
 
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RoyC said:
Yes the weight of this new lens (400 f2.8 S) and the demonstrated high IQ of the S line glass to date makes me wonder if I should plan on adding a 600mm S when it appears. If the Z 2.0x TC works as well with a 600mm S as it does with the 70-200 f2.8 S that is 1200mm of quality IQ for birding when needed. A tempting thought for making a total move from F mount to Z telephotos.

If the road map had an 800 f5.6 on it instead of the f6.3 PF I wouldn't be thinking about the 600.
Or would I?
Click to expand...

What is 1/3 of a stop among friends?

I've never had much drive to own an 800/5.6 (or 800/6.3PF) because I still find 600 and f/4 to be very important for my shooting. Of course if you have an 800/5.6 and a 400/2.8/TC then that may be a pairing to consider. Minimizing the use of TCs is an important consideration. Since moving to these modern high MP sensors I've been getting away from TCs in general.
 
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arbitrage said:
What is 1/3 of a stop among friends?

I've never had much drive to own an 800/5.6 (or 800/6.3PF) because I still find 600 and f/4 to be very important for my shooting. Of course if you have an 800/5.6 and a 400/2.8/TC then that may be a pairing to consider. Minimizing the use of TCs is an important consideration. Since moving to these modern high MP sensors I've been getting away from TCs in general.
Click to expand...

Currently, the lens pairing I take out is the 180-400 & the 800 (prior to the 180-400 announcement I had the 400 E). Both are mounted to a D5 when in the car and ready to shoot. Just have to decide which when walking away from vehicle. In Grand Teton or YNP the 180-400 has been very handy for what you just stumble upon around the next corner, as well as, for taking a stroll down a dike in central Florida mash areas.
 
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