The long-anticipated release of the 20mm T1.9 lens, the final addition to the Samyang V-AF autofocus cine lens series for Sony E, has finally taken place in Q2 of 2024, despite an earlier prediction of a Q4 2023 launch.
Samyang’s Lens Lineup Expansion
The original plan for the Samyang V-AF Cine Lens lineup was to consist of five lenses, starting with the V-A 75mm T1.9, followed by the 20mm T1.9, 24mm T1.9, 35mm T1.9 and the 45mm T1.9 lenses in 2023. By 2023’s end, except for the 20mm T1.9, all of the remaining lenses were released. A surprise announcement in December saw the addition of a V-AF 100mm T2.3 to the lineup.
The Complete Lens Set
With the launch of the 20mm T1.9, the full-frame six-lens set is now complete, complemented by two accessories. The V-AF Manual Focus Adapter, which was unveiled about a year ago, and the newly introduced 1.7x Anamorphic Manual Focus Adapter.
Intriguing Features of Samyang’s V-AF Lenses
What sets Samyang’s V-AF lenses apart is their unique features. Notably, they are the world’s first cine lenses to offer autofocus. Additionally, a manual focus adapter can be added to their front end, converting them into standard manual focus cine lenses.
The Exciting New Adapter
The company has now launched the V-AF 1.7x Anamorphic manual-focus adapter, excluding its compatibility with the newly released 20mm lens. The adapter comes with 0.8 MOD gears for focus motors and follow-focus units, and produces the distinctive oval bokeh, a signature of anamorphic lenses. However, the flare it produces is orange, not the traditional blue.
While it’s possible Samyang may release a blue flare version of this adapter, the current lens lineup is already quite intriguing. It’s hopeful that Samyang may extend these lenses from Sony E mount to other systems in the future.
Price and Availability
Though US pricing is yet to be revealed, the Samyang V-AF 20mm T1.9 lens is priced at €649.99 in the EU, and the Samyang V-AF Anamorphic Manual Focus Adapter is slightly higher at €999.99. Pre-order links are not available yet but are expected to be accessible soon.
