LEICA R CINEMOD EF: 19-24-35-50-90-135mm

The Leica R CineMod EF lenses (a series of Leica R lenses modified for cinema use) are popular for their excellent optical quality and versatility in video production. Here are the technical details for the Leica R CineMod EF lens set, which typically includes the focal lengths 19mm, 24mm, 35mm, 50mm, 90mm, and 135mm:

General Features:

1. Mount Type:

   • EF Mount (Canon EF lens mount) for compatibility with Canon EOS cameras, as well as other cameras with EF lens mounts.

2. Optical Design:

   • The Leica R CineMod lenses retain the same optical characteristics as the original Leica R lenses but are modified with focus gears, aperture gears, and other cinema-specific features.
   • High-quality glass with low chromatic aberration, minimal distortion, and superior contrast.

3. CineMod Modifications:

   • Gear rings: These lenses are modified with gears on the aperture and focus rings for use with follow focus systems and matte boxes.
   • Aperture: The aperture is often de-clicked, meaning it can be smoothly adjusted for cinematic exposure control, which is a standard feature for video production.
   • Standardized Front Diameter: The front diameter is standardized (usually around 80mm) for easier use with matte boxes and filters.

4. Build Quality:

   • Rugged, metal construction for durability in professional environments.
   • Smooth and precise focusing action, often with long focus throw for precise adjustments.

5. Image Quality:

   • Known for their sharpness, contrast, and minimal color fringing.
   • Cinematic bokeh with pleasing out-of-focus areas.

Technical Specifications for Each Focal Length (approximate):

These are the typical specifications for each lens in the set. The details might vary slightly depending on the individual lens and the specific CineMod conversion.

1. Leica R CineMod 19mm f/2.8:

   • Focal Length: 19mm
   • Aperture: Maximum aperture of f/2.8
   • Minimum Focus Distance: Around 0.3m (30cm)
   • Filter Thread: 77mm
   • Focus Throw: Around 270° for precise manual focus adjustment

2. Leica R CineMod 24mm f/2.8:

   • Focal Length: 24mm
   • Aperture: Maximum aperture of f/2.8
   • Minimum Focus Distance: Approximately 0.25m (25cm)
   • Filter Thread: 77mm
   • Focus Throw: Around 270°

3. Leica R CineMod 35mm f/2:

   • Focal Length: 35mm
   • Aperture: Maximum aperture of f/2
   • Minimum Focus Distance: Around 0.3m (30cm)
   • Filter Thread: 77mm
   • Focus Throw: Around 270°

4. Leica R CineMod 50mm f/2:

   • Focal Length: 50mm
   • Aperture: Maximum aperture of f/2
   • Minimum Focus Distance: Around 0.45m (45cm)
   • Filter Thread: 77mm
   • Focus Throw: Around 270°

5. Leica R CineMod 90mm f/2:

   • Focal Length: 90mm
   • Aperture: Maximum aperture of f/2
   • Minimum Focus Distance: Around 0.8m (80cm)
   • Filter Thread: 77mm
   • Focus Throw: Around 270°

6. Leica R CineMod 135mm f/2.8:

   • Focal Length: 135mm
   • Aperture: Maximum aperture of f/2.8
   • Minimum Focus Distance: Around 1.5m (150cm)
   • Filter Thread: 77mm
   • Focus Throw: Around 270°

Performance:

• Color Rendering: The Leica lenses are known for their rich color rendering, with a warm and slightly vintage character that makes them desirable for cinematic work.
• Bokeh: Beautiful, smooth bokeh for out-of-focus highlights.
• Sharpness: Excellent across the frame with minimal fall-off, even at wide apertures.

Compatibility:

• These lenses are compatible with Canon EF-mount cameras, as well as other cameras with EF lens mounts (like those from Sony, Blackmagic, and others, with the appropriate EF mount or adapters).

Conclusion:

Leica R CineMod lenses provide cinema-grade optical performance, renowned for their sharpness, low distortion, and excellent build quality. They are widely used in high-end cinematography and are especially valued for their aesthetic quality and smooth, precise manual controls.