Fotodiox has a new Canon to L-Mount Autofocus Adapter with Variable ND Filter. As the name implies, it allows you to use Canon EF lenses on some L-Mount cameras. Not only do you get full control over autofocus, but the adapter also includes a built-in adjustable variable ND filter.
The new adapter works on cameras such as the Panasonic S1, S1R, S1H, and the Sigma FP. It does not work on Leica L-Mount cameras.
Key features
- Mounts Canon EOS (EF / EF-S) D/SLR Lenses to L-Mount Alliance Mirrorless Cameras; infinity focus or beyond guaranteed
- Built-in FUSION technology restores automated functions on most lenses such as auto-focus, aperture control, image stabilization and more with compatible lenses
- Built-in Variable Neutral Density Filter ND2-256 (1-8 stops) for easy and convenient image control over any lens that you attach
- Enhanced craftsmanship and high-tolerance construction for demanding professionals; infinity focus or beyond guaranteed
- Precise fit, no play, gap or wiggling
- Limited 2-Year Manufacturer Warranty
Variable ND
The adapter utilizes the same ND Throttle variable neutral density filter that is found in a myriad of other Fotodiox adapters. It offers 1 to 8 stops of light reduction.
The ND Throttle now features a geared rotating ring for making ND changes a little easier. It can also be used with follow focus accessories.
The ND Throttle reduces light transmission by two stops when at its ‘Min‘ position. According to Fotodiox, by placing the variable ND filter behind the lens the image quality is better than if the same filter were mounted on the front of the lens. The variable ND filter is made from optical polycarbonate (CR39).
The biggest problem with most variable ND adapters is that you are always going to have a certain amount of ND being used. Unlike digital cinema cameras that have built-in ND, you can’t set an adapter to zero. Having a minimum of 1 stop of ND activated at all times is going to be a problem for certain shooting situations.
You would also probably need to get the Fotodiox Pro Fusion Adapter, Smart AF Adapter – Compatible with Canon EOS (EF / EF-S) D/SLR Lenses to Select L-Mount Alliance Mirrorless Cameras with Full Automated Functions as well if you wanted to run canon EF lenses without using any ND.
Autofocus
The Panasonic Lumix S cameras already have a reputation for pretty bad autofocus performance, so you have to wonder just how usable a Canon EF lens is going to be through the use of an adapter.
According to Fotodiox, the FUSION technology built into the adapter enables electronic communication between mixed lens and camera platforms. FUSION adapters enable autofocus, aperture control, and image stabilization. The adapter enables EXIF and aperture data to be transmitted to and controlled by the camera.
Different lenses may exhibit different operating characteristics depending on lens age and manufacturer. Fotodiox recommends testing individual lenses in your setup before critical shoots.
Fusion Smart AF Lens Adapters also include a micro USB port to allow for firmware updates.
I’m pretty skeptical as to how well autofocus performance is going to work using this adapter on any of the Lumix S cameras.
Size & Weight
The adapter weighs in at 0.4 lb (181 g)) so it pretty lite. It has physical dimensions of 3.2 x 2.8 x 1.6 in (8.2 x 7.1 x 4 cm).
Fotodiox has made adapters like this in the past
This is not the first time Fotodiox has made an adapter like this. They also have the Vizelex ND Throttle Fusion Smart AF Lens Adapter – Canon EOS – EF (NOT EF-S) D/SLR Lens to Sony Alpha E-Mount Mirrorless Camera Body with Full Automated Functions and Built-In Variable ND Filter (1 to 8 Stops) and the FotodioX Vizelex Cine ND Throttle Fusion Smart AF Lens Adapter for Canon EOS EF/EF-S to Fujifilm G-Mount GFX.
Price & Availability
The Canon to L-Mount Autofocus Adapter with Variable ND Filter retails for $299.95 USD, but it is currently sold out on the Fotodiox website.
