VILTROX EPIC T2.0 1.33x Full-Frame Anamorphic Cine Lens Series Now Available

Lens News

by Francesco AndreolaJanuary 3^rd, 2023

VILTROX has finally released more details about their full-frame anamorphic lens lineup, the EPIC series. It incudes three cinema primes (35mm/50mm/75mm) featuring a constant aperture of T2.0, a 1.33x squeeze factor and a PL mount. The lenses are now available for purchase starting at $2,799.

The development of VILTROX’s EPIC full-frame anamorphic cinema lens series has been a known fact since early September 2022 when the company provided a sneak peek during a photography event in China.

The manufacturer is well-known for producing affordable adapters and lenses, including a cinema-oriented T1.5 prime series for Sony E-mount and Micro Four Thirds cameras. However, it’s the first time that the company engages in the development of a collection of full-frame anamorphic glass. So let’s take a closer look!

VILTROX EPIC T2.0 1.33x anamorphic lens lineup: features

As of now, the VILTROX EPIC series consists of a 35mm T2.0 1.33x, 50mm T2.0 1.33x, and 75mm T2.0 1.33x. Hence, there’s unfortunately no surprise of longer or shorter focal lengths. Moreover, we can now confirm that ARRI PL is the only mount option available. In my opinion, this might be a wise design choice, especially considering that each lens weighs approximately 1,980g/4.4lbs!

The 1.33x squeeze factor, which roughly results in final images with a 2.35:1 aspect ratio when using a 16:9 sensor, is claimed to be consistent across the whole focusing range. Talking about focus, the lenses should have minimal focus breathing, according to VILTROX. The 35mm and 50mm can focus as close as 78.7cm/2’7 ft., while the minimum focus distance of the 75mm is 99cm/3’3ft.

Furthermore, word is that the lenses provide images that are sharp from the center to the edges of the frame, while also delivering a soft, “retro” look with blue light streaks.

Optical and physical design

The fast T2.0 aperture comes with a 8-blade design, which should result in a smooth bokeh. Moreover, the front glass element features a nano-coating technology as well as a waterproof and anti-fouling coating.

The physical design of the series seems to be really well thought out, since all lenses share the same weight, size (102x133mm), front outer diameter (95mm), and center of gravity. This facilitates the process of switching between different focal lengths during a shoot, especially when balancing the camera package on a gimbal.

Moreover, the size, diameter, and position of the M.08 focus and iris gears are unified across the whole series. The aperture ring has an excursion of 63°, while the long focus throw (290°) should allow for smooth focus pulls. Lastly, the bright-moon white lens housing with gun-tray gold gear rings was not just a “pre-production look” and is apparently here to stay.

Price and availability

The new VILTROX EPIC 35mm, 50mm, and 75mm T2.0 1.33x full-frame anamorphic cinema prime lenses are now available to purchase from the manufacturer’s website. Each lens retails for $2,799, but the company also offers a 3-piece kit ($7,899), which comes with a lens protection case.

This pricing strategy positions the VILTROX EPIC series right in between budget anamorphic lenses, such as SIRUI’s 1.6x Venus lineup , and mid-range anamorphic glass, like the Atlas Mercury Series, for example.

For more information, please visit VILTROX’s website here.

Do you often shoot anamorphic? What do you think of the VILTROX EPIC T2.0 1.33x full-frame anamorphic lens series? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!