Introduction
At IBC 2024 in Amsterdam, Viltrox introduced the LUNA 42-420mm T5.6 Zoom lens. This lens is the second in the LUNA series, following the recently announced 30-300mm T4, and it will be joined by a 22-220mm T2.8 S35 zoom in the future.
Key Features
Optical Superiority
- 10X Zoom Range: The LUNA 42-420mm offers an impressive 10x zoom, making it versatile for various shooting scenarios.
- Consistent Focus Plane: It maintains a stable focus plane across all focal lengths, ensuring sharp images.
- Adjustable Back Focus: This feature allows micro-tuning for precise alignment with different cinema cameras.
- 65mm Frame Coverage: The lens can cover a 65mm frame, expanding its cinematic capabilities.
- Minimal Distortion and Breathing: Even at shorter focal lengths, the lens minimizes distortion and breathing, providing a realistic visual experience.
Structural Integrity
- Uniform Control Angles: The focusing and zooming angles are consistent with other lenses in the LUNA series, enabling smooth operation.
- Durable Stainless Steel Mount: The wear-resistant mount ensures long-term reliability.
- High Compatibility: The lens features an adjustable flange distance, making it compatible with various cinema cameras.
- Smooth Operation: Focusing and zooming processes are smooth, with no vertical shift during adjustments.
- Built-in Filter System: A replaceable filter system allows easy adaptation to different shooting environments.
- Steady Parfocal Zooming: Focus is maintained throughout the zoom range, ensuring consistency in shots.
- Ergonomic Design: With a built-in handle and a standard 3/8-inch thread mount, the lens is user-friendly on set.
Unique Considerations
Viltrox aimed to create the LUNA series as a showcase of high optical quality. Interestingly, the LUNA 42-420mm T5.6 covers a 65mm image circle, while the 30-300mm T4 only supports up to a 46.5mm image circle.
Physical Specifications
Weighing 33.84 lbs (15.35 kg), the LUNA 42-420mm is slightly heavier than the 30-300mm T4, which weighs 33 lbs (15 kg). The lens features a constant T5.6 aperture throughout its focal range, ensuring consistent brightness and shallow depth of field. Its 8-blade diaphragm is designed to create pleasing bokeh, and the front diameter measures 165mm.
Target Audience and Availability
Viltrox is targeting wildlife and sports shooters with the LUNA series, with specific interest noted from NASCAR.
Specifications
Price and Availability
The Viltrox LUNA 42-420mm T5.6 Full Frame Zoom Lens will retail for approximately 100,000 Euros. In comparison, the LUNA 30-300mm T4 Full Frame Zoom Lens is priced at around $65,000 USD.
Conclusion
With its robust features and high optical performance, the Viltrox LUNA 42-420mm T5.6 Zoom lens positions itself as a valuable tool for professional cinematographers, particularly in wildlife and sports shooting.
