Introduction
At IBC in Amsterdam, Laowa showcased its new Ultima 12-120mm T4 S35 Zoom lens. This lens is positioned as an excellent option for those shooting news or documentaries with Super35-sized sensor cameras.
Versatile Focal Range
Extensive Coverage
The 12-120mm range is impressive, especially for a lens of this size. It covers a wide array of focal lengths, making it ideal for fast-paced content. The lens’s design and range are reminiscent of older B4 2/3′ wide-angle zooms, which were popular in various broadcasting applications.
Multiple Applications
This lens is versatile enough for numerous applications, including reality TV shows, news, sports, documentaries, music videos, and corporate work.
Technical Specifications
Image Circle and Mount
The lens covers image circles up to 29.5mm and features a 114mm front diameter. It is available exclusively in PL mount.
Optical Construction
The lens consists of 28 elements in 20 groups, with 9 aperture blades, requiring a substantial amount of glass. The minimum focusing distance is 1m (3.3′).
Weight and Balance
Weighing in at 3.2kg (7 lb), the lens is somewhat heavy. However, given its range and constant T4 aperture, the weight is reasonable. The lens is front-heavy but not as unbalanced as some other lenses, like the Canon CN-E 17-120mm.
Additional Features
Optional Servo Grip
An optional servo grip, made by Movcam, is available for this lens. It seems more suited for use with a servo demand on a panhandle rather than handheld work due to its ergonomic design.
Minimal Distortion
After testing the lens at the booth, it was surprising to find minimal barrel distortion at the wide end. The 12-120mm range is highly suitable for documentary work and event coverage.
Price and Availability
Laowa plans to release the Ultima 12-120mm T4 S35 Zoom lens early next year, with an anticipated price of around $15,000 USD. At this price, it will compete with lenses like the Fujinon XK 20-120mm T3.5. Another alternative with a similar focal range is the Fujinon Duvo 14-100mm T2.9-T3.9, although this lens is more than double the cost of the Laowa. The Fujinon Duvo also features an integrated servo zoom and a 1.5x extender, adding to its appeal.
Conclusion
The Laowa Ultima 12-120mm T4 S35 Zoom lens offers a versatile and extensive focal range, making it ideal for a variety of applications, from news and documentaries to music videos and corporate work. Despite its weight, the lens manages to maintain a reasonable balance and offers impressive optical performance with minimal distortion. Priced competitively, it provides a more affordable alternative to higher-priced lenses in its category. With its planned release early next year, this lens is set to become a valuable tool for filmmakers using Super35-sized sensor cameras.
