Roland Showcases 50th Anniversary Concept Piano During CES 2023

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Roland, a world-leading innovator of electronic musical instruments and multimedia products, showcased its 50th Anniversary Concept Model Piano during CES 2023.

For decades, Roland has pursued the most promising electronic technologies to reinvent the acoustic piano playing experience and to honor the instrument’s beautiful sounds and history. Since the release of Japan’s first electronic pianos, the EP-10 and EP-20, in 1973, Roland has continuously worked to transform the space with its long-time commitment to advancing the form and function of this timeless instrument.

Last evidenced by Roland’s futuristic concept, the GPX-F1 Facet Grand Piano, which was unveiled at CES in 2020, the brand is now pushing the boundaries even further in celebration of its 50th year. With unique innovations and structural changes, Roland’s 50th Anniversary Concept Piano paves the way for instruments of the future.

Offering improved sound quality, advanced connectivity, and stunning finishes, this 50th anniversary piano, equipped with Roland’s latest sound system and tones alongside Roland’s most legendary piano sounds and expression, also features a keyboard touch more natural and responsive than ever before. The concept piano’s one-piece molded wooden body, designed in collaboration with Japanese furniture maker Karimoku, was inspired by the fusion of the past and future, while its exterior, comprised of Japanese oak wood, provides deep piano tones from its speakers.

More than a beautiful design, the 50th anniversary piano aims to fill a gap in the industry. In the age of digital pianos, many find rich sound quality is sacrificed for innovation. With that, Roland’s concept piano offers a 360-degree speaker system, which is able to send sound in any direction through its 14 adjustable speakers placed strategically throughout.

The 50th anniversary piano offers advanced connectivity through the operation of these drones, as well as through its touch-panel table, which is embedded within the lid, supporting video conferencing, piano lessons and streaming tutorials, available throughRoland Cloud.

While the Roland 50th Anniversary Concept Piano is not for sale, CES attendees can receive an exclusive in-person look at Roland’s exhibit at CES in Las Vegas, Nevada, on January 5-8, 2023, at LVCC, Central Hall 15301.

Sony Electronics Releases New Accessories for Airpeak S1 Professional Drone

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Sony Electronics Inc. introduces a new Battery Station at CES 2023 and announces the development of new accessories for the Airpeak S1 drone. A new battery pack to help with longer flight time and RTK (Real-time Kinematic) kit with base station will be available later this year to expand operational capabilities for longer flight times and precise positioning data.

“The new Airpeak Battery Station will provide customers with fast and efficient charging to reduce downtime and help keep Airpeak flying all day,” said Yang Chang, Vice President Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc. “This release in addition to our development announcement demonstrate our commitment to not only enhancing the system for areal photographers and cinematographers but expanding the system’s capabilities for industrial applications.”

Enhanced Charging Capabilities

The new Battery Station (LBN-H1) is designed for professional drone operators flying Sony Electronics’ Airpeak S1 drone from film sets to industrial applications. It provides convenient storage and transportation of up to ten Airpeak S1 battery packs (LBP-HS1), while providing intelligent and fast charging for eight battery packs (charging four at a time) and discharging up to eight batteries simultaneously for transporting or extended storage.

The LBN-H1 Battery Station includes built-in charging cables for two remote controllers (RCV-VH1) and equipped with three auxiliary power outlet accessory sockets that can support a variety of accessories including 12V outlets that can charge mobile devices, cameras, and other USB accessories. The accessory socket cap can also be used as a stopper to prevent the lid from accidentally shutting due to wind or other factors while using this product.

Fast charging for efficient workflow

The pack includes two charging models based on the operator’s needs. This includes (QUICK) mode, for shorter charging time, which will charge up to four LBP-HS1 battery packs from about 20% to 90% in approximately 30 minutes and (FULL) mode, which will charge up to four LBP-HS1 battery packs from about 0% to 100% in approximately 55 minutes or from about 20% to 100% in approximately 50 minutes. A built-in fan automatically cools the batteries.

Discharge mode for storage and air transportation

Up to eight battery packs can be discharged simultaneously whether the battery station power is on or off. Fifty percent (50%) mode can be used for long-term storage and will take approximately 17 hours to discharge from about 100% to 50%. Twenty five percent (25%) mode for air transportation will take approximately 27 hours to discharge from about 100% to 25%.

Size and Weight

The Battery Station comes in a robust travel case with wheels and an extendable handle. It is approximately 21 7/8 in. (553 mm) H x 16 3/4 in. (423 mm) W x 10 1/4 in. (258 mm) D (including projecting parts) and weighs approximately 33 lb. 8.2 oz (15.2 kg) (Not including battery pack, power cord, etc.). It is also certified UL62368-1.

Pricing and Availability

The new Battery Station (LBN-H1) will be available from January 19, 2023 at a suggested retail price of $2,899,99 USD. Pricing and availability for the new battery pack and RTK kit will be set at a future date.

Panasonic LUMIX GH6 Named CES 2023 Innovation Awards Honoree

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The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) named the LUMIX GH6 a CES 2023 Innovation Awards Honoree in the Digital Imaging & Photography category. The LUMIX GH6 is honored for its cutting-edge technologies, outstanding performance, responsiveness, and reliability. The announcement was made ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2023, the most influential technology event of the year, which takes place January 5-8, 2023, in Las Vegas and digitally.

“We are proud that the LUMIX GH6 has been named a CES 2023 Innovation Award Honoree,” said Anthony Hanna, Group Product Manager – Imaging. “At Panasonic, we are committed to pushing the boundary of innovation and performance, driving the industry forward with new technologies that will create a higher standard for cameras.”

The LUMIX GH6 was designed with expertise drawn from firsthand opinions, to recognize high quality video expression and workflow efficiency from setup to delivery in addition to excellent depiction performance and mobility. Together with a wide array of lens options, Panasonic is committed to leading the industry with creators who are seeking anew way to express their creativity. It’s new, 25.2-megapixel Live MOS Sensor and Venus Engine will help a new generation of video creators produce state-of-the-art, high quality videos efficiently and on a low budget. The LUMIX GH6 is equipped with key improvements in performance and technology, while also maintaining reliability and ease of use.

New Technologies for Advanced Video Production: With an increased effective pixel count by more than 20%, the new 25.2-megapixel Live MOS Sensor without LPS (Low-pass Filter) boasts high resolution, high speed signal readout that reduces rolling shutter issues and achieves a wide dynamic range. Also, the new Venus Engine utilizes new, advanced image processing technology to render high-resolution imagery with natural noise texture and rich color reproduction.

Improved Video Performance for Creative Professionals: Provides 12+ stops of wide dynamic range for pre-installed V-Log recording, expanding to 13+ stops when using Dynamic Range Boost mode.

Highly Responsive Mobility and Operability: Improved auto focus performance to support the capabilities of the new Live MOS Sensor and Venus engine.

Reliability and Expandability: The LUMIX GH6 also utilizes a forced-cooling fan mechanism to prevent overheating, in addition to being water resistant and freeze-resistant, ensuring camera durability even with heavy field use.

The CES Innovation Awards program, owned and produced by CTA, is an annual competition honoring outstanding design and engineering in 28 consumer technology product categories. The LUMIX GH6 was selected by an elite panel of industry expert judges who reviewed more than 2,100 submissions.

The LUMIX GH6 is available for purchase at valued channel partners and on display the Innovation Award Showcase at CES 2023.

Epiphone Introduces Custom Adam Jones Art Collection on Guitars

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The first model released through the Adam Jones Les Paul Custom Art Collection features Mark Ryden’s “The Veil of Bees.”

“Mark’s work is instantly recognizable, uniquely his own,” Adam says, “While he started in fine art, he has expanded into music and theatrical productions. What a perfect partner to kick off the series with.”

Each limited-edition guitar comes with a marquee back plate showing the name of the artist and artwork, a headstocks featuring an additional design by Koran Fought, and a Protector hardshell case.

The Epiphone Adam Jones Art Collection consists of seven Silverburst Les Paul Custom models, each featuring reproductions of different works of fine art on the back. Adam curated the featured artwork, and additional artwork, designed by artist Korin Faught, adorns the back of the headstock of each model.

Five distinguished artists are featured in the collection, and only 800 guitars of each model will be produced. This unprecedented limited-edition collection brings Adam’s love of art and music together.

This model from the Adam Jones Les Paul Custom Art Collection features Mark Ryden’s “The Veil Of Bees” on the back. It is also an exceptional instrument for your next musical masterpiece. It has a bound mahogany body with a maple cap, a three-piece bound maple neck with an Adam Jones Custom profile, and an ebony fretboard.

It is equipped with a reverse-mounted Epiphone ProBucker Custom Humbucker in the neck position and a Seymour Duncan Distortion in the bridge; both are wired CTS potentiometers and Orange Drop capacitors. A Marquee Back Plate with the artist’s name and the name of the artwork is also included. Finished in Antique Silverburst as a homage to Adam’s beloved original Silverburst 1979 Gibson Les Paul Custom, a Protector hardshell case is also included.

Mark Ryden’s “The Veil Of Bees”

Silverburst Les Paul Custom

  • Bound mahogany body with a maple cap
  • Three-piece bound maple neck with Adam Jones Custom profile
  • Ebony fretboard
  • Reverse-mounted Epiphone ProBucker Custom hum bucker in the neck position
  • Seymour Duncan Distortion pickup at the bridge
  • $1,299

The Case

Epiphone Protector

Inspired by the design of vintage 70s era Gibson “chainsaw” cases, Epiphone Protector Series hardshell cases feature rugged polyethylene shells and modern improvements like TSA-approved locks, ergonomic soft-grip handles, and black powder coated hardware. Protect your instrument with a case that delivers both vintage-inspired style and modern technology. Features four heavy duty latches with a TSA-approved lock on the center latch, and a plush interior lining.

Gibson Unveils New Digital App

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The new Gibson App simplifies the learning process and brings guitar playing to life for the current and next generation of guitarists in a modern, comprehensive, and intuitive way. The Gibson App is the place to take your guitar playing to the next level. New to the Gibson App is the Gibson Digital Amp, the ultimate starting amplifier for beginners and a flexible amp on-the-go for intermediate players and pros to get their sound anywhere.

The Gibson Digital Amp is an accessible amplifier for both acoustic and electric guitars, and is currently for Apple/iOS users — an Android version will debut next year. Transform your sound easily with different amp options – the Gibson Digital Amp is available exclusively on the Gibson App.

Use the Gibson Digital Amp’s jamming guide to get started and transform your sound with built-in effects and pedals, jam to backing tracks, or use it in lessons and songs. The Gibson Digital Amp only requires your phone, and wired headphones for the best playing experience, no cables needed. The amp feature 3 acoustic mic presets, 4 electric amp presets, and 6 effects pedals.

The Gibson Digital Amp is the ultimate starting amplifier for beginners and a flexible amp on-the-go for intermediates and pros.

The Gibson App uses a unique two-way, interactive platform to teach guitar students how to do everything from playing their first note to shredding loads of songs. The Gibson App features interactive lessons with thousands of lessons and songs. Learn the songs step-by-step with video tutorials from superstar artists and pro guitarists in the “Gibson App Guide.”

The Gibson App also includes the new Digital Amp, a built-in tuner, a metronome, Gibson TV, and new songs are added every week. New Gibson App Guides are added regularly and include Tommy “Spaceman” Thayer’s favorite iconic KISS guitar solos, Richie Faulkner’s (Judas Priest) “Guide to Metal”, Jared James Nichols’ “Guide to Blues”m CELISSE’s “Guide to Songwriting,” and more.

The Gibson App uses “audio augmented reality” to provide dynamic feedback to students as they learn and play. As you pluck a note or strum a chord, the Gibson App listens to your guitar and gives you real-time feedback on your playing. It also gives students a more contextual learning experience: Instead of learning chords and scales in a vacuum, you’re able to practice on a scrolling tablature that lets you hear how you sound with the backing of a virtual band.

As you’re playing, the Gibson App gives you feedback on timing and tone, ensuring that students are getting active input on how their play is developing. The Gibson App appears to players of all levels, it’s not just for beginners looking learn a few chords; the app can assist seasoned guitarists who are working their way through difficult rifts, want to learn their favorite songs, or polish their advanced techniques.

Players can also challenge themselves by speeding up or slowing the tabs. Like having a full-time guitar teacher, the Gibson App keeps track of your progress and adjusts lesson plans accordingly. The Gibson App released a “backing track mode” which supports both lesson and song playback without headphones, so users can self-select what works best for their current environment.

And that’s not all: the Gibson App also packs in a fully-featured tuner for guitar first timers, there’s even a detailed lesson on how to tune your instrument, a multi-function metronome, players can connect to free one-on-one consultations with Gibson’s Virtual Guitar Tech team, and to direct links to the Gibson, Epiphone, and Kramer online stores for easy shopping for guitars, gear, apparel, and accessories.

The Gibson App free version features a few lessons a day; the premium version of the Gibson App offers full access and a 14-day free trial, then costs $19.99/£16.49 monthly or $119.99/£98.99 yearly.

Apple Introduces Apple Music Sing

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Apple expands its world-class lyrics experience with a new feature for fans to easily sing along to tens of millions of songs.

Apple introduced Apple Music Sing, an exciting new feature that allows users to sing along to their favorite songs with adjustable vocals in real-time lyrics. Apple Music Sing offers multiple lyric views to help fans take the lead, perform duets, sing backup, and more – all integrated within Apple Music’s unparalleled lyrics experience. Coupled with an ever-expanding catalog that features tens of millions of the world’s most singable songs, Apple Music Sing makes it fun and easy for anyone to participate, however and wherever they choose.

Apple Music Sing will be available later this month to Apple Music subscribers worldwide, and can be enjoyed on iPhone, iPad, and the new Apple TV 4K.

“Apple Music’s lyrics experience is consistently one of the most popular features on our service,” said Oliver Schusser, Apple’s vice president of Apple Music and Beats. “We already know our users all over the world love to follow along to their favorite songs, so we wanted to evolve this offering even further to enable even more engagement around music through singing. It’s really a lot of fun, our customers are going to love it.”

Apple Music Sing includes:

Adjustable vocals: Users now have control over a song’s vocal levels. They can sing with the original artist vocals, take the lead, or mix it up on millions of songs in the Apple Music catalog.

Real-time lyrics: Users can sing along to their favorite songs with animated lyrics that dance to the rhythm of the vocals.

Background vocals: Vocal lines sung simultaneously can animate independently from the main vocals to make it easier for users to follow.

Duet View: Multiple vocalists show on opposite sides of the screen to make duets or multi-singer tracks easy to sing along to.

Apple Music will also be launching a suite of more than 50 dedicated companion playlists featuring all of the epic songs, duets, choruses, and anthems that have been compelling people all around the world to sing – fully optimized for the Apple Music Sing experience.

Availability

Apple Music Sing will be available later this month for Apple Music subscribers worldwide.

Apple Music Sing will be available on all compatible iPhone and iPad models as well as the new Apple TV 4K.

RØDE Introduces The VideoMicro II

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RØDE introduces the VideoMicro II. Building on the legacy of the best-selling original VideoMicro with next-generation updates, the MicroVideo II is an ultra compact, lightweight and easy-to-use microphone that will instantly elevate the audio of your camera or smartphone.

Featuring RØDE’s revolutionary annular line tube technology for incredibly natural, full-bodied sound, updated circuitry for enhanced performance, our groundbreaking new HELIX isolation mount system, and more, the VideoMicro II is the perfect mic for filmmaking, content creation, or simply taking your videos the next level.

VideoMicro II is a professional-quality microphone that will instantly elevate the audio of your camera or smartphone. Ultra-compact, lightweight and easy-to-use, it is perfect for run-and-gun filmmaking, content creation, or if you simply want to record better audio for your videos.

Key Features:

  • Professional-quality on-camera shotgun microphone
  • Ultra-compact and lightweight – just 39g
  • Annular line tube technology for natural, full-bodied audio
  • Supercardioid polar pattern for highly directional, focused sound
  • No battery required and no complicated switching – incredibly easy to use.
  • HELIX isolation mount system for superior protection from knocks, bumps, and handling noise
  • Deluxe foam and furry windshields and cables for connecting to cameras and smartphones included
  • Rugged all-metal construction
  • Designed and made in RØDE’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Sydney, Australia

Stunning Sound, Made Simple

Don’t settle for sub-par sound. Combining professional audio quality and simple operation, the VideoMicro II offers the best of both worlds. It doesn’t require batteries – simply plug it in and hit record on your camera or smartphone – and it’s perfectly tuned to deliver crystal-clear audio, with no complicated switches or controls.Super-focused and Super-clear Audio

Super-focused and Super-clear Audio

The VideoMicro II is a true supercardioid shotgun microphone with RØDE’s revolutionary annual line tube technology, delivering natural, full-bodied sound never before heard in such a compact form factor. It is a highly directional microphone that will clearly pick up sound from in front while reducing background noise from the sides and rear. Perfect for filmmaking, vlogging, or creating content on your smartphone.
Innovative HELIX Isolation Mount

Innovative HELIX Isolation Mount

HELIX is a groundbreaking isolation mount developed in-house by the RØDE team specifically for the VideoMicro II. Featuring an innovative design expertly crafted to the exact specifications of the microphone, it provides superior protection from knocks, bumps and general handling, which can result in unpleasant rumbles in your recordings. It is also super low-profile, keeping your setup sleek while offering acoustic performance. The mount features handy cable management slots, plus an attachment for your camera and a thread for mounting onto a boom pole and other accessories.

Ultra-compact. Ultra-rugged

At just 80mm long and weighing just 39 grams, the VideoMicro II is incredibly compact and lightweight, making it the prefect addition to any creator kit or camera bag – or even a backpack or a handbag. Despite its small size, it is incredibly tough, with a rugged all-metal body and premium components. Take it with you everywhere.

A Complete Kit for Incredible Recordings

The VideoMicro II comes with deluxe foam and furry windshields, so you can record crystal-clear audio anywhere you go – indoors or in the elements. Also included is a 3.5mm TRS to TRS cable for connecting with other cameras and a 3.5mm TRS to TRRS cable for connecting to smartphones, so you can capture incredible audio with all your devices.

Line 6 Total Guitar Recording Bundle Available Now

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Line 6 announced that from now through June 30, 2023, anyone purchasing a new Helix amp and effects processor or an HX family processor will receive Steinberg Cubase LE music production software, the Helix Native plugin, and the Metallurgy Collection plugins at no additional cost.

Anyone purchasing a new Line 6 Helix Floor, Helix LT, Helix Rack, HX Stomp XL, HX Stomp, or HX Effects processor will receive Steinberg Cubase LE 12 music production software, the Line 6 Helix Native plugin (valued at $399.99 USD, MSRP) and the Line 6 Metallurgy Collection of plugins (valued at $199.99 USD, MSRP) at no additional cost.

To claim your free software, register your Helix or HX hardware and upload your proof of purchase using the link on the Line 6 website. Once approved, your licenses for Cubase LE 12, Helix Native and the Metallurgy Collection will be deposited into your Line 6 account.

Helix Floor, Helix LT, Helix Rack and Control

The Helix family of amp and effects processors leverage HX modeling to deliver the authentic sound and feel of modern and vintage amps, cabs, and effects – while their player-friendly interfaces set the standard for ease of use. Whether onstage, in the studio, or anyplace else – Helix products deliver outstanding performance.

HX Stomp HL, HX Stomp, and HX Effects

The family of amp and effect processors leverage the power of HX modeling to deliver the authentic sound and feel of modern and vintage amps, cabs, and effects in three performance-ready pedals: the HX Stomp XL compact amp and effects processor, the HX Stomp ultra-compact amp and effects processor, and the effects-only HX Effects processor. Whether onstage, in the studio, or anyplace else – HX processors deliver outstanding performance.

Cubase LE 12

Cubase LE 12 is a special, compact version which uses the same core technologies as Cubase Pro. It provides all the basic tools for recording, editing, and mixing – from the initial idea to the final masterpiece. Cubase LE 12 is the perfect entry into the world of computer-based music production and offers powerful, yet easy-to-use software tools for all genres.

Helix Native

The Helix Native amp and effects plugin brings the power of HX modeling to your studio. Like the hardware members of the Helix family, Helix Native delivers the authentic sound and feel of modern and vintage amps, cabs, mics, and effects – while also serving as a powerful sound-design tool.

The Metallurgy Collection

The Metallurgy Collection of amplifier and effects plugins was created specifically for guitarists who wish to quickly and easily access contemporary versions of classic and modern metal tones – as well as craft original tones of their own. The collection bundles the Modern, Thrash, and Doom plugins.

For more information, visit the Line 6 website and read their Terms & Condition

Fender Announces MonoNeon’s New Artist Signature Jazz Bass V

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Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) announced the MonoNeon Jazz Bass V to honor the inventive bassist’s singular vision and empower players everywhere to approach the instrument with the same curious spirit that has fueled his vivid career. Known for his knack for funk and micro-tonal detail, creating a signature instrument that encapsulates MonoNeon’s spirit and ability is a tall order.

As the brand that brought forth the electric bass, Fender seeks to honor the biggest pioneers of the instrument across genres and MonoNeon is one of them. Mono’s fashion sense is on par with his playing, often adorned in fluorescent layers and accessories that would give any glow stick a run for its money. Thanks to this signature model’s eye-popping yellow and orange finish and pickguard, the optics on this bass keep up with the fashion sense of the man who inspired its creation. That being said, MonoNeon Jazz Bass V is far more than meets the eye.

“Getting my own artist signature bass with Fender is definitely a full circle experience happening right now,” said MonoNeon. “Seeing medal holding my bass is really crazy. He’s like my first musical hero. He’s a very funky player. I’d just practice to all of his records, try to find anything he played and just learn it. I wanted to be just like him and I still do.”

Accompanying the launch of the MonoNeon Jazz Bass V is “In Conversation with MonoNeon,” a video hosted by George Clinton, as he guides viewers through the “Monoverse.” The piece features a series of jam sessions, including the “Duo of Bullshit” with MonoNeon and Blaque Dynamite, as well as commentary from his mother, grandmother, and father, Dwayne Thomas Sr.

The MonoNeon Jazz Bass V makes a statement – equal parts swagger and serious business. It features an alder body finished in an eye-popping neon yellow urethane finish, complemented by a neon orange painted headstock and pick guard. “These are my two favorite colors, high-visibility orange and yellow, because I love how the construction workers look on the highway. You can see them from far away. It’s inspired by them.”

The 22-fret, one-piece roasted maple neck is C-shaped for comfort and has 10”-14” compound radius fingerboard and pearl block inlays. Custom Fireball 5-String Humbucking Bass pickups deliver luscious and robust low end with growl, while the 18-volt preamp provides extra headroom. Meanwhile, the 3-band active EQ gives players endless tonal capabilities and the Fender HiMass string-through-top-load bridge increases resonance, weight, and sustain. Each bass comes with a MonoNeon sticker pack and custom headstock Stance sock.

“MonoNeon is one of the most-inventive bass players of this generation, and to honor him with a Fender bass that encapsulates his unique style and vast talents is a privilege,” said Justin Norvell, EVP of Products at Fender Musical Instruments Corporation. “We worked closely with him to create a bass that not only visually represents the online persona we’ve come to know, but also embodies his funk-inspired, abstract and microtonal playing. From the eye-popping neon yellow and orange finish, to his Custom Fireball 5-String Humbucking Bass pickups and HiMass bridge, this bass gives players endless tonal capabilities and robust low end with a growl.”

In true tradition, the Fender Artist Signature Series honors iconic musicians through product progression and storytelling, creating instruments inspired by the unique specifications of the world’s greatest guitarists and bassists.

Nikon Announces New NIKKOR Z 40mm F/2 (SE) Special Edition Lens

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Nikon Inc. has announced the NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 (SE), a new special edition lens with a heritage design that takes inspiration from the era of iconic manual NIKKOR lenses. This fast aperture, compact prime lens is the perfect union of old and new, creating a stylish, fun-to-use lens with the modern optical tech for Z series mirrorless cameras.

Whether you’re looking for a super-small lens with a comfortably familiar feel, or just vibing on the retro aesthetic, the new lens pairs perfectly with any Nikon Z series camera. With a distinctive and eye-catching design, the NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 (SE) is a special edition of the NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2, and is an ideal match for the heritage-styled Z fc. The lens is small enough to accompany APS-C mirrorless cameras like the Z 50, Z fc or Z 30, while also a great light and compact “walk-around” lens for Z 5, Z 611, and Z &II users.

“This lens hits every sweet spot; it’s designed with a cool vintage look, while being fast, sharp, and affordable and super compact.” Said Jay Vannatter, Executive Vice President, Nikkon Inc.

The special edition of the 40mm f/2’s intricate knurling is based on careful study of the authentic, original NIKKOR design. The lens body has a substantial grip similar to manual lenses, yet also features modern design elements such as a control ring for customizable versatility.

The NIKKOR Z 40 mm f/2 (SE) is simply a fun lens to use, with a fast f/2 abetter that makes it great in low light with a shallow depth of field that draws attention to the subject. The lens is so small and easy to carry around, while bringing exceptional sharpness for street photos and candid portraits. It also offers a natural angle of view (60mm-equivalent when attached to a DX body) which is idea for shooting portraits, stills, and standard perspective videos with gorgeous, blurred backgrounds and excellent low-light performance.

NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 (SE): Standard Prime with Vintage Lens

  • A compact, versatile prime lens that is ideal for everyday creation of casual portraits, street snaps, food photography and more.
  • Delivers fantastic blurred backgrounds with beautiful bokeh, and a dramatic separation of the subject from the background.
  • Ultra-compact, weighing only approximately 6 oz (170g) and only 1.8” long.
  • Built with 6 elements in 4 groups, with a 9-blade diaphragm for natural out of focus area.
    Electronic diaphragm delivers precise aperture control for stable exposure during continuous shooting.
  • Focuses as close at 0.96ft (0.29m), which is excellent for capturing food and top-down continuous shooting.
  • Designed with consideration for dust and drip-resistant performance with a sealing that prevents dust and water droplets from entering the lens.
  • Content and video creators will appreciate the quiet operation and natural focus shift that allows from close focusing to infinity, reduced focus breathing and smooth aperture control.
  • Integrated customizable control ring can be assigned to adjust focus, ISO, aperture and exposure compensation.
  • Small-diameter, high torque STM (stepping motor) in the AF mechanism ensures outstandingly quiet, fast and accurate operation, while realizing a great balance of compact size and superb AF control performance.

Nikon Z fc Black Edition

Nikon has also announced a new stylized version of the Nikon Z fc, which is now available as an all-black edition as a respectful homage to the original color schemes. The Z is a mirrorless camera with a design that evokes the essence of the legendary FM2 film camera, and this new design will surely appeal to those who appreciate subtle minimalism.

The Z fc is a compact and lightweight mirrorless camera, offering all the benefits of modern technology combined with stylish and satisfying precision carved analog dials. It features a 20.9-megapixel APS-C sensor for amazing image quality even in low light, combined with advanced technology such as full time Eye-Detection AF, 4K 30p video capture, and a vary-angle blogger-style LCD screen to creatively compose. The Z fc makes it simple and fun to capture your content; users can embrace full manual control, or use the powerful automatic settings to easily capture stellar photos and videos that get noticed.

The Z fc is also currently available in the attractive black and silver scheme, as well as additional stylish colors including Amber Brown, White, Natural Gray, Sand Beige, Coral Pink and Mint Green.

Price and Availability

The new NIKKOR Z 40mm f/2 (SE) will be available in early 2023, and will retail for $309.95 SRP at authorized Nikon dealers. The new Nikon Z fc Black Edition paired with the NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR lens will be available in late November for $1199.95 SRP and will be available exclusively through the Nikon Store.