Canon has announced its new CJ27ex7.3B 2/3” portable ENG lens with a 27x optical zoom. The 27x zoom ratio was previously typically only available in 2/3” box lenses.
   

The lens has a focal range of 7.3mm to 197mm. With a built-in 2x extender, the lens’ maximum telephoto reach increases to 394mm. This focal range makes it suitable for use in hand-held news, live sports, and broadcast studio applications.

What is interesting is that the lens features Focus Breathing Compensation which helps minimize image distortion when racking focus. This is something we are now seeing quite a few manufacturers introducing into not only stills lenses, but also servo zooms as well.

According to Canon, the lens features superb optical performance, and it is classified as a UHDxs lens, Canon’s highest image quality rating for broadcast optics.

The new lens also features Canon’s next-generation drive unit, the e-Xs V. The new drive unit features an angled 20-pin connector and a built-in USB-C connector, giving users a better experience with equipment setup and maintenance and improving operability with an updated display menu.

The CJ27ex7.3B broadcast lens is expected to be available for purchase in August 2024. There is currently no indication of pricing.