Many customers ask about our 1.3X and 1.8X AnamorphX Pro anamorphic adapters. Responses to the most frequently asked questions are listed below.
What is the difference between the 1.3X and 1.8X AnamorphX Pro adapters?
Both adapters work to provide video footage with a cinematic feel to it (2.39: 1 aspect ratio), optically compressing the horizontal dimension of the picture to fit onto a sensor that is not as wide relative to its height. The picture can then be “unsqueezed” in post-production so that objects appear normal, but in a picture with a wider aspect ratio.
- The 1.3X adapter provides a 1.33X squeeze factor, compressing what would normally be seen in a 2.39:1 aspect ratio (cinematic look) onto a 16:9 aspect ratio camera sensor.
- The 1.8X adapter provides a 1.8X squeeze factor, compressing what would normally be seen in a 2.39:1 aspect ratio (cinematic look) onto a 4:3 aspect ratio camera sensor.
What cameras and lenses will work with the AnamorphX adapter?
- Virtually any camera will work. The AnamorphX attaches to the front of an existing lens. If you can attach it to a camera lens, you are good to go. It is NOT limited to a specific camera, sensor size, lens brand, or focal length. The adapter has a clamp with a 114 mm diameter, but by using step-down rings that we provide with the adapter, it can attach to the end of virtually any camera lens on the market. Step-up adapters rings are available for lenses with diameters of 77, 82, 95, and 110 mm.
What upgrades were made when Letus switched the the AnamorphX Pro design?
- Higher index glass improves the image quality so that 4K resolution can be used.
- Squeezes the image more evenly, minimizing the mump effect.
How wide of a lens can be used with the Letus AnamorphX?
The smaller the sensor size, the shorter the focal length lens that can be used. Otherwise vignetting could occur.
- For a full frame sensor, a 50mm focal length can be used.
- For a Super35 sensor (APS-C) – a 30mm focal length can be used (28 mm on the 1.33X AnamorphX)
- For a Micro 4/3 sensor (BMCC, GH4/5, etc.) – A 24mm focal length can be used. (21 mm on the 1.33X AnamorphX)
What size of image sensors work with the Letus AnamorphX?
- Any size image sensor will work
Will the AnamorphX work with 4K+ Cameras?
- The AnamorphX will physically work with any resolution. Results will be highly dependent on the lens between the AnamorphX and the camera. At those resolutions, high quality optics are key. The AnamorphX may produce a slightly softer, more organic image but that would be the only side effect. It is important to use the highest quality lens between the AnamorphX and camera though for best results at 4K.
What is the front diameter of the AnamorphX Adapter?
- The adapter’s diameter is 114mm, it is the same as a Zeiss CP lenses.
Can the AnamorphX’s weight be supported with third party supports?
- The adapter has a 1/4-20 female thread so that third party support solutions using this thread should work fine. A lens support designed for round lenses should also work.
What are the different levels of lens flare?
- High flare (requires special custom order and will require extended delivery time and additional cost)
- Medium flare
- Low flare (no longer available)
How does each level of lens coating affect my image quality?
- The medium coating provides the best image quality (best flare without color aberration)
- High flare coating creates the most flare, but might introduce color aberration.
How do I focus the AnamorphX adapter?
- Focus the camera lens on a distant object (infinity)
- Attach the adapter onto your camera’s lens. Dial the adapter toward the far focus setting (right, negative markings) to get the best focus on the object. At this point you will not likely get critical focus. Just get as close as you can.
- Re-focus with camera’s lens. You should now be able to achieve critical focus.
- Focus on an object 5-6 feet from the camera to the best of your ability. It is possible that at this point you will be able to get critical focus without changing the adapter setting. However, if you can not get critical focus with just the camera’s lens, dial the adapter toward the near focus slightly to get critical focus. Note this marking on the adapter. It is the the setting for the Mid to Far setting for your adapter with this lens. You may want to repeat and record this process with all your lenses for quick reference and setup.
- When focusing on objects closer than 5-6 feet, you will find that you need to adjust the adapter settings again. Just repeat step 4 by adjusting with both the camera’s lens and the AnamorphX.