NAB 2014 video – Larry Thorpe runs us through the new Canon 17-120mm Cine-Servo Zoom Lens

by Sebastian WöberApril 15^th, 2014

Canon didn’t release any new large sensor cameras at this NAB. Some people are unhappy, others rejoice that Canon takes their time to craft something relevant instead of throwing a spec sheet at us like many manufacturers seem to be in the habit of doing nowadays.
While Canon stays silent on the camera side, they did present a very noteworthy piece of glass at NAB 2014. Their new Cine-Servo Zoom is one of a kind.

Larry Thorpe is a true mastermind when it comes to cinema equipment and explaining the tech behind it. I was very honoured to get the chance to listen to his wisdom on and off camera as I’m a big fan of his talks.
In this video Larry explains all the highlights of Canon’s new Canon CN7x17 KAS S Cine-Servo 17-120mm T2.95.

This lens is a cine zoom lens for ENG style shooting in 4K resolution. The product feels extremely professional and well built, yet it’s comparably lightweight and small for a cine zoom.
The servo runs ultra-silent and amazingly fast. It can be removed and reapplied without recalibration. The zoom range itself is of particular interest for people looking to cover a very wide range using this in documentary style environments.

Unfortunately this quality comes at a price of $31,350.
If you can lay down that kind of money for your production you can pre-order the lens with either a PL mount or an EF mount.

Here are all the highlights at a glance:
• ENG-Style Zoom, Focus, and Iris Servos
• For Broadcast or Cinema Shooting Styles
• 180° Focus Ring with Knurled Grip
• Double Focus Markings in Feet and Meters
• Zoom Speed: 0.5 to 300 Seconds
• Angle of View Shift Suppression
• Detachable Drive Unit
• Electronic Lens Mount &12-Pin Connector
• 11-Blade Aperture Design
• Covers up to Super 35mm Sized Sensors