Simmod Lens launches M42-LPL ProLock conversion system for Pentax Takumar lenses

Simmod Lens launched what they describe as an expert option to convert previous Pentax Takumar lenses for cinema use. The brand new all-brass Simmod M42-LPL conversion system adapts virtually all M42 screw mount lenses onto the brand new fashionable LPL cinema mount customary.

For Pentax Takumar SMC M42 lenses, the system has the additional benefit of the ProLock system to forestall the lens from unscrewing in use (this function solely works with unique Pentax SMC Takumar lenses with a locking pin and doesn’t work with older Pentax Takumars or M42 lenses from different manufacturers).

To carry the lens into place a intelligent submount is fitted with a rear locking tab that matches over the Pentax lens’ pin. That is then secured with screws and fitted to the LPL mount half, which once more has extra screws for safety. As soon as put in, the Simmod M42-LPL conversion system gives a strong connection between the lens and digital camera physique or Simmod LPL lens adapter with no play or wiggle.

Becoming the Simmod M42-LPL conversion system could be carried out by anybody competent in DIY lens modification or by a professional lens technician like these at any considered one of Simmod’s world community of authorized installers. The conversion system additionally comes full with a set of shims to ensure infinity focus is achieved. As with every different high-end cinema lens, a Pentax lens with Simmod M42-LPL conversion would require calibration for optimum efficiency.

Pentax Takumar

Previous Pentax Takumar M42 lenses provide distinctive classic shade renditions, lovely flares, and distinctive bokeh, making them fashionable with many filmmakers. As well as, Takumars are recognized for his or her clean and exact guide focus management with well-damped focus rings. In addition they have a strong all-metal construct high quality and a compact design.

When adapting previous Pentax Takumar M42 lenses to fashionable video cameras, customers might encounter a notable downside associated to the rotation of the lens throughout mounting – one of many key causes that Pentax and different digital camera makers ultimately moved away from screw mount to bayonet mounts. M42 lenses usually require a screw-mount lens adapter for attachment to fashionable digital camera methods, and the character of this adapter can lead to the lens rotating barely when mounted. This rotation can pose challenges, particularly when utilizing follow-focus methods or lens gears for exact focus pulling.

ARRI’s LPL

The Simmod Lens LPL conversions are a cheap manner to make use of these classic lenses. If a person needed to switch classic stills lenses to be universally used between top-end cinema, skilled, and mirrorless cameras, then the usual choice was PL mount. Sadly, this meant most classic stills lenses would require an costly full cine re-housing or a expensive bespoke mount-only PL conversion. Customers can profit from constructive locking and larger compatibility with out pointless expense.

The LPL mount is designed to work with bigger sensors and has a wider diameter than the PL mount (62mm vs 55mm for PL). It may be discovered on the ARRI Alexa LF, Mini LF, Alexa 65, and Alexa 35. The Sony Venice/Venice 2 and most RED DSMC2 and DSMC3 cameras can be fitted with LPL mounts.

LPL adapters are costly; Simmod Lens solved this drawback by popping out with its personal vary of professional-grade LPL adapters that promote at a a lot lower cost level than the present alternate options. Accessible for LPL to Sony E, LPL to RF, LPL to L-mount, and LPL to PL, every adapter is robustly constructed of strong brass and chrome steel.

Works with Essence Magnetic Rear Diffusion Filters

The Simmod M42-LPL conversion system can be appropriate with the corporate’s Essence Rear Magnetic filter system for fast and simple diffusion filter modifications. Altering filters takes seconds as soon as a Simmod Rear Magnetic Pilot information is fitted. It additionally has the benefit of being smaller and lighter than screw-on or matte box-mounted filtration. One small single filter dimension matches a number of lenses, and there’s no want for heavy matte containers, a number of step-down rings, or bigger, costlier filters for wide-angle lenses. At the moment, Simmod Lens affords Essence Rear Magnetic filters in Aria Black Mist filters in 1/8, 1/4, and 1/2 strengths, in addition to Aria Glisten filters for a glimmer impact in 1/8 , 1/4, 1/2, and 1 strengths.

Value and Availability

The Simmod Lens M42-LPL conversion mount set prices $189 US and is obtainable to buy now from the firm’s web site.