By technical editor Matt Allard:
TLS are a UK based lens service and conversion specialist. They are perhaps best known for their Morpheus conversion of the Nikon 80-200 f2.8 into a beautifully smooth focussing cine lens with PL mount.
At NAB this year they showed us prototype internals of a new conversion for the Nikon 24-70 f2.8 stills lens and at IBC in Amsterdam they showed us the finished lens. As with the Morpheus, the 24-70 has had the barrel’s direction of focus reversed to be the same as a cine lens (Nikon lenses traditionally focus the opposite direction). The lens elements have been completely rehoused in an all metal case and focus, zoom and iris are incredibly smooth. The end result feels like a more expensive cine zoom from one of the master lens makers.
Sadly this kind of workmanship doesn’t come cheap and the lens is expected to cost around £8500. It will be available in limited quantities starting end of Sept, beginning Oct 2014. For more info keep an eye on the TLS website or contact them directly.
