Tilta releases Mirage Pro matte box

Tilta’s new Mirage Pro matte box is a reimagining of the MB-T12 cine matte box with an updated and modular design.

Tilta says that its new Mirage Pro matte box offers a robust and adaptable matte box system that squares the circle of having features previously reserved for high-end productions, while balancing that with a price point that empowers a wider range of creators. It’s a difficult trick to pull off, but on paper it seems the company has managed it with prices starting at $299.

In terms of lens compatibility, the Mirage Pro embraces a decent spectrum of glass, ensuring rock-solid mounting for cine lenses with front diameters including 95mm, 110mm, 114mm, and 134mm. It’s also compatible with photography lenses via optional thread adapters (67mm, 72mm, 77mm, 82mm).

Different configurations suit various needs. Filmmakers can select from a Single Backing Kit for a streamlined setup, or a more comprehensive kit including a wider range of standard backing sizes to accommodate diverse lens collections.

The 3.2 lb (1.45 kg) Single Backing kit is lightweight enough to make it a good match for gimbals and other weight sensitive support systems. The Base Kit comes in at at 7.7 lbs (3.49 kg). A magnetic clip-on front hood can be easily removed to further reduce weight without sacrificing filter capacity. For lens changes, an optional swing-away adapter provides more efficiency on set.

The top flag and optional side flags provide flare and light spill management, even in the most challenging lighting conditions. Designed for fast-paced shooting, these flags offer efficient attachment and removal via 1/4”-20 screws, ensuring quick adjustments on set.

The box accommodates up to three industry-standard 4x5.65 filters simultaneously. A 114mm Variable ND Filter is either included in the VND Kit or available separately and provides a seamless 1 to 7 stops of light reduction with a single filter. For dynamic shooting environments, the VND Kit also features a rod adapter compatible with small wireless motors like the Tilta Nucleus Nano 2 Motor, enabling wireless, on-the-fly ND adjustments (all this doubles the weight, incidentally).

The VND Kit sits at the top of the range and includes the 4x5.65 VND filter, the Mirage Pro matte box itself, a range of lens backings and rubber donuts for versatile lens compatibility, a protective soft shell carrying case, and additional essential accessories.

Pricing and availability

The Tilta Mirage Pro matte box is available for purchase with immediate effect. The Base Kit costs $549, the VND Kit $849, while the Single Backing Kit comes in at $299. 10% reductions are available until the end of the month.

tl;dr

• Tilta's Mirage Pro matte box features a modular design that balances professional-grade features with an accessible price, starting at $299.
• It supports a wide range of lens sizes with a robust mounting system for cine lenses (95mm to 134mm) and optional thread adapters for photography lenses.
• The lightweight configuration (7.7 lbs) is suitable for gimbals, and it includes a magnetic clip-on front hood that can be removed to further reduce weight.
• The VND Kit offers a 4x5.65 variable ND filter with seamless light reduction and compatibility for small wireless motors, with the complete kit priced at $849.