Sony just released a new Alpha-mount lens - the Sony DT 55-300mm f/4.5-5.6 SAM.

The new lens is a consumer-oriented model designed for use on APS-C Sony A-mount cameras like the Sony A77, A57 and A37.  It should be available in September for $300.  Check availability at B&H Photo.

More details in the press release below.

Sony Introduces Versatile, High-Quality Telephoto Zoom Lens for Alpha A-Mount Camera Line

High-Speed, Quiet DT 55-300mm F4.5-5.6 SAM Telephoto Zoom Lens to hit Retail in September

SAN DIEGO, Jul 25, 2012 – From flattering portraits to faraway wildlife and fast-action sports, nearly every subject can be captured beautifully with the new SAL55300 telephoto zoom lens, the latest addition to Sony’s A-mount lens lineup.

Optimized for use with α A-mount camera models with APS-C sensors, the compact, stylishly-designed interchangeable lens is an ideal addition to the camera bag for any Sony photographer.

“The new SAL55300 lens is a perfect complement to our acclaimed line of Alpha A-mount cameras with Translucent Mirror Technology, allowing consumers to capture distant, faraway subjects with razor-sharp focused images and Full HD videos,” said Mike Kahn, director of the alpha business at Sony Electronics.  “With a versatile 55-300mm, 5.5x magnification range, fast, quiet performance and an attractive price tag, it’s a welcome addition to our alpha A-mount system.”

The new SAL55300 lens features a whisper-quiet Smooth Autofocus Motor (SAM) and an advanced optical design to get the best from the high-speed performance and high resolution sensors common to Sony’s A-mount camera lineup.  Additionally, it contains an ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) glass element, commonly featured on premium Sony G Lens models, that reduces color aberrations, improves image quality and provides excellent contrast and corner-to-corner sharpness.

Pricing and Availability

The new SAL55300 A-mount interchangeable lens for A-mount cameras will be available in September for about $300 at Sony retail stores…