Duclos Lenses has announced the new LPL Macro Extension Tube that decreases the minimum focus of LPL mount lenses.
The design is based on their previous PL Macro Extension Tube. If you want to see how they perform, Matt did a review on one of the PL versions on the site.
Extension tubes are a popular choice for the odd macro shot as they are cheaper than dedicated macro lenses and diopters, and if they work for your situation they can be a useful addition.
The extension tube is manufactured in Duclos’ California office from stainless steel components, precision tolerances, and optically flat internal surface finish.
The resulting magnification can be calculated by dividing the distance extended, by the lens focal length. Example: Adding the new Duclos LPL Macro Extension Tube to the Arri 58mm Signature Prime will give you a magnification of approximately 0.435x. If the lens original magnification was 0.185x, then the new magnification will be 0.185x + 0.25x = 0.435x.
The downside to using any extension tube is the loss of infinity focus which is generally the opposite of macro work.
While mid to long-range lenses benefit most from this product, the Duclos LPL Extension Tube can be used on just about any LPL mount lens depending on its physical size and original close focus ability.
It is important to note that the extension tubes will not work with anamorphic lenses.
The 15mm LPL Macro Tube retails for $350 USD.
