3 minute read
The impressive new CJ12ex4.3B
Canon has a new unit out, the CJ12ex4.3B, a new 2/3” portable 4K zoom lens with the world’s widest focal length, an ultra, ultra wide angle 4.3mm.
Canon is in a fairly enviable position when it comes to broadcast lenses and, with the release and announcement of two new 4K units (the second is a compact unit in development), is obviously dead set on maintaining that reputation as the industry transitions over to Ultra HD.
The CJ12ex4.3B is billed as delivering outstanding 4K image quality throughout the entire 12x optical zoom range. A built-in 2x extender helps provide even greater focal reach — meaning it goes from that exceptional 4.3mm focal length at the wide end to 104mm (52mm without) — while an increased use of fluorite and UD glass mitigates ghosting and flare. A new three group internal focus system also reduces focus breathing.
At 2.1kg it doesn’t carry any weight penalty over and above comparable HD glass and is therefore nicely positioned for the ENG / documentary market, while 3 20-pin connectors allow it to slot into existing Canon HD lens accessories and virtual systems.
A Digital Drive Unit (DDU) gives users the freedom to select repeatable zoom positions and speeds, in addition to focus and iris settings. What’s more a 16-bit absolute value encoder integrated into the DDU allows operators to start shooting with the camera’s aberration compensation function in an instant without having to hang around for any initialisation, which is just what you need in news and wildlife environments, for instant.
The company has also announced that it's working on a new compact 2/3” 4K all-purpose-zoom. As we get further details we'll pass them on. There's also a full spec sheet on the CJ12ex4.3B coming later today which we’ll put up below.
In the meantime, the press release is after the break.
Canon launches world’s widest 2/3” 4K portable broadcast lens – the CJ12ex4.3B
United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, 25 August 2015 – Canon today unveils the CJ12ex4.3B, a new 2/3” portable 4K zoom lens with the world’s widest focal length. At an incredible 4.3mm it is designed for professionals shooting interviews and live broadcast, including sports and news. Canon also today announces that it is developing a new compact 2/3” 4K all-purpose-zoom lens. Further bolstering Canon’s 4K broadcast lens range for cameras employing 2/3” sensors, the versatile new lens will be optimised for both indoor and outdoor shooting, across a variety of applications including sporting events and live broadcasts as well as television dramas and commercials.
Outstanding 4K optical performance
Leveraging Canon’s renowned heritage in optical design and advanced technologies, the CJ12ex4.3B delivers outstanding 4K image quality throughout the entire 12x optical zoom range. Providing the freedom to quickly adapt to different shooting environments, the new lens enables shooters to swiftly move from an ultra-wide 4.3mm angle shot to close ups, whilst ensuring first-class image quality from the very centre to the edge of a frame. A built-in 2x extender also helps provide even greater focal reach, whilst still maintaining 4K optical performance.
To further provide sharp, high contrast images the CJ12ex4.3B includes an increased use of fluorite and UD glass combined with Canon’s expert coatings, resulting in exceptional control over ghosting and flare. A new three group internal focus system also reduces focus breathing.
Exceptional portability and flexible operation
Boasting a brand new design, the CJ12ex4.3B is compact and lightweight, weighing just 2.1kg, making it similar in size and weight to a comparable 2/3” HD lens. Ideal for on-shoulder shooting traditionally adopted by news gatherers, the lens can easily be used on-the-go, and with an ergonomic design and grip, it is comfortable to hold for longer periods of time. The lens also incorporates three 20-pin connectors for easy integration with existing HD zoom/focus controllers and can be directly connected to an external virtual operation system at the same time.
Featuring a Digital Drive Unit, the CJ12ex4.3B offers advanced operability giving users the freedom to select repeatable zoom positions and speeds, in addition to focus and iris settings. A 16-bit absolute value encoder integrated into the Digital Drive Unit allows operators to start shooting with the camera’s aberration compensation function in an instant, without the need for any initialisation. This is perfect for news and wildlife environments where action can disappear as quickly as it started. A digital display built into the Digital Drive Unit also makes it easy to set, review and adjust vital functions in a way similar to 2/3” HD lenses.
Key features CJ12ex4.3B:
4K resolution 2/3” portable wide angle lens with 12x zoom
Exceptional 4.3mm focal length at the wide end extends to 52mm (104mm using the built-in 2x extender)
Stunning optical performance right to the edge of the image when paired with a 2/3” 4K compatible camera
Combines 4K quality with lightweight design and compact size comparable to HD lenses for comfortable on-shoulder shooting
Sustained 4K performance even when using the built-in 2x extender
Proven, high-quality 16-bit encoder captures precise information on zoom, focus and iris and allows support for aberration correction immediately on start-up
3 20-pin connectors make for effortless use with existing Canon HD lens accessories and virtual systems.
Tags: Production
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