BLAZAR APEX 1.33X 50mm T1.8 Autofocus Anamorphic Lens Firmware Update V2.0.2 – Improved Performance

Firmware Update

by Heath McKnightToday

The BLAZAR APEX 1.33X 50mm Autofocus Anamorphic Lens (E Mount) has received a firmware update, which will help with enhancements, improvements, and more. Let’s dive in!

Lens maker BLAZAR says their APEX is the world’s first line of anamorphic lenses that feature autofocus. Unveiled at IBC 2024 back in September, the first two lenses are a 35mm T1.8 1.33X and 50mm T1.8 1.33X. BLAZAR received the CineD Award for Best Lens Innovation for these new lenses. The first lens available for preorder is the 50mm.

Firmware update V2.0.2 – details 

The firmware update V2.0.2 for E-mount cameras addresses a lens compatibility issue with some Sony cameras. Plus, it helps with the overall performance of the BLAZAR APEX 1.33X T1.8 50mm AF.

• The firmware helps to resolve a compatibility issue between the lens and Sony full-frame cameras, including the FX3. 
• Enhanced autofocus performance, with improved speed and accuracy for a smoother experience.
• Optimized focus noise control helps to reduce the focus motor noise. This is especially important when recording.

Download the firmware here.

BLAZAR APEX 1.33X AF Anamorphic Lenses – features

Let’s take another look at the key features found in the APEX 1.33X AF Anamorphic Lenses:

• 1.33X squeeze.
• Fast, smooth, and quiet autofocus with real-time and accurate tracking, plus advanced eye tracking.
• 180-degree focus rotation and 73.5° aperture rotation.
• Close focus at 2.1 ft (0.65 m).
• 0.8 focus ring with 80mm front diameter and 77mm*0.75 filter thread.
• AF/MF focus switch.
• Covers S35 sensors while also supporting APS-C. Note: Open-gate isn’t supported.
• The first focal lengths are 35mm and 50mm, both at a fast T1.8.
• Classic natural and subtle silver flare and a vintage look with barrel distortion.
• Supported mounts include E, Z, RF, and L.

Using anamorphic lenses takes time, patience, and skill and is as much an art form as it is a science. This is one reason the APEX lenses with autofocus are attractive to filmmakers, cinematographers, and even photographers. There’s no need for additional hardware, such as a lens control system. The lenses do feature an AF/MF switch so that they can be controlled manually.

My colleague Johnnie reviewed the BLAZAR APEX 35mm and 50mm 1.33X T1.8 anamorphic lenses. Check out his review along with sample footage here.

Price and availability 

The BLAZAR APEX 50mm 1.33X T1.8 AF retails for $899 and can be preordered here. You can learn more about the APEX line of 1.33X anamorphic lenses on BLAZAR’s site.

Will you use the BLAZAR APEX Anamorphic Lenses featuring autofocus for your upcoming projects? Let us know in the comments below!