Sigma today announced a very interesting new product. The cryptically named MC-11 is a lens mount adaptor designed specifically to adapt Sigma's lenses for use on Sony e-mount systems. It comes in either canon EF or Sigma SA versions for use with corresponding sigma lenses.

This is very interesting, because they are the actual manufacturer of the lenses, and an official e-mount developer, Sigma doesn't have to reverse engineer the autofocus protocols, so in theory they should work pretty well. I expect that this will work best with Sony cameras that have added support for adaptors, such as the Sony A7II / A7RII and the recently announced A6300. The adaptor also has a clever led display that tells you if the lens is compatible or not.

Here's a section of the press release which sums it up nicely:

The Sigma MC-11’s sleek LED display lets Sony users know if the attached Sigma lens is compatible and whether or not the MC-11 needs to be updated for that specific lens. Its internal control data system keeps detailed information on each compatible Sigma lens, automatically optimizing performance of AF drive, aperture control and other critical lens functions. The MC-11’s internal control data system also maintains continuity with key camera functions that control brightness and correct transverse chromatic aberration, distortion, and more. The complete compatibility with both Sigma lens OS and Sony in-camera OS ensures correction of camera shake and other stability issues and when used with in-camera stabilization, MC-11 allows angle shake correction in the lens. The integrated flocking helps prevent internal reflections and reduction in lens performance. In addition, the MC-11 retains important EXIF data ensuring users can analyze every detail of their lens setting.

If this does work well, and if it's better than the metabones adaptor this will be great news for Sony shooters, as Sigma has some great lenses right now, and it will really help with the shortfall in Sony's own lineup. The art lenses are particularly well regarded, especially the full frame prime lenses. They have a chart listing compatibility:

I have to say, until the rumours about this broke a few days ago, I didn't see this coming, and I'm very excited about the possibilities if it lives up to the promise. This could be a real boon for the e-mount range.

More information is available on Sigma's website.

You can pre-order the MC-11 adaptor now from B&H Photo.