Kipon has unveiled a groundbreaking product for the filmmaking community: a professional PL mount adapter specifically engineered for Sony and Nikon mirrorless camera systems, which uniquely incorporates a variable neutral density (ND) filter. This innovation is touted as the first of its kind, offering a sophisticated solution for cinematic productions.
This pioneering adapter, a first for the company, was meticulously designed and assembled in Japan, reflecting a commitment to precision and quality. The integrated variable ND filters, crucial for exposure control in cinematography, are also manufactured in Japan, ensuring high optical performance. The adapter enables filmmakers to mount professional PL-mount cinema lenses onto their mirrorless cameras, functioning as a dual-purpose device that streamlines the equipment setup.
Revolutionary Design for Filmmaking Flexibility
Kipon's latest PL mount adapter stands out with its integrated 1.5 to 7 stop variable neutral density filter, empowering cinematographers with enhanced control over light. This eliminates the need for external ND filters, simplifying the setup and allowing for quicker adjustments on set. The adapter's deep-recessed design is a thoughtful feature, accommodating a wider array of PL cinema lenses, including those with protruding rear elements, thereby maximizing compatibility across various cinematic optics. Furthermore, it supports precise flange distance adjustments through a multi-start threaded mechanism, ensuring optimal optical performance and focus accuracy for diverse filmmaking scenarios.
The ability to adjust ND strength seamlessly from 1.5 to 7 stops using a ridged gear dial provides filmmakers with unparalleled flexibility to maintain desired shutter speeds or angles without altering aperture settings. This is particularly vital in bright conditions where maintaining a wide aperture for shallow depth of field is crucial. The adapter's compatibility extends to existing systems like Kipon's Mamiya 645-PL 0.7x Optical Focal Reducer System, broadening its utility for users with medium-format lenses. This innovative approach enhances creative workflows by combining essential tools into a single, high-performance unit, making it an indispensable asset for modern film production.
Advanced Engineering and Market Availability
Kipon emphasizes that the development of this adapter is the culmination of extensive optical engineering and adapter design expertise, underscoring their commitment to practical solutions for real-world cinematography. Collaborations with technical and cinema experts, including Sanwa Eizai and Crank, were instrumental in refining the design based on feedback from rental technicians, cinematographers, and production professionals. This collaborative effort ensured the adapter meets the rigorous demands of contemporary film production, promising both optical excellence and broad lens compatibility without compromise.
The Kipon Variable ND PL adapter is currently available for preorder, with an initial discount from its retail price of $699 to $573. Both Sony E and Nikon Z mount versions are expected to ship in mid-August. While direct preorders are being taken through Kipon's official website, the product will also be distributed through authorized retailers such as B&H Photo Video. This strategic release aims to make the cutting-edge adapter accessible to a wide range of professional filmmakers seeking to enhance their creative toolkit with this innovative, Japanese-engineered solution.