Viltrox is gearing up for the official launch of its new anamorphic cinema lenses designed for full-frame cameras – the Viltrox Epic 100mm T2 and 25mm T2 1.33x lenses. These additions will expand the existing Epic series, which currently consists of 35mm, 50mm, and 75mm lenses.
The latest Viltrox 1.33x full-frame anamorphic cinemascope lenses aim to deliver a 2.39:1 aspect ratio on 16:9 aspect ratio cameras. This feature allows shooting in anamorphic mode on cameras lacking the capability to shoot in a 4:3 aspect ratio or with an open shutter.
In contrast, competing companies like Venus Optics (Laowa brand) have opted for 1.5x compression in their anamorphic lenses. This decision aims to achieve a balance between image resolution and anamorphic optical properties to a certain extent.
The new Viltrox 1.33x full-frame anamorphic lenses in the Epic line offer an optimal blend of build quality and optical performance. Other manufacturers currently limit the selection of 1.33x anamorphic lenses, addressing a specific niche in the market. The ability to use them on regular 16:9 sensor cameras enhances their versatility compared to 1.8x or 2x anamorphic lenses.
However, there is a wide array of options for compression ratios and anamorphic optics available in the market, including 1.5x, 1.6x, 1.8x, 2x, and 1.33x.
Viltrox Epic 100mm T2 and 25mm T2 1.33x anamorphic cinema lenses price and release date
Viltrox has set the pricing for the new Epic 100mm T2 cinema lens and the 25mm T2 1.33x at $3,999 each. A set containing both lenses is available for pre-order at $7,759 through the Bhphotovideo.com online store. Viltrox is also offering a complete kit with all five anamorphic lenses for $17,299.
In a related development, Atlas Lens opened pre-orders in December 2023 for three cine lenses within their innovative Mercury 1.5x anamorphic cinema line. These lenses include the Atlas Mercury 54mm T2.2, 95mm T2.2, and 138mm T2.2 1.5x lenses. These premium lenses, positioned as high-end, are designed for seamless synchronization with top-tier cinema cameras.
The second set of the Atlas Mercury Series optics is currently available for pre-order on Bhphotovideo.com at a price of $7,995 per lens. The company has announced that it will commence shipments for the entire lens range in the third quarter of 2024.