Kipon is now shipping the World’s first 1.65x FF LPL-LPL rear anamorphic adapter.
Kipon states that because there are no anamorphic full-frame lenses with LPL mounts on the market, they decided to develop a 1.65x full-frame rear anamorphic adapter that can convert ARRI LPL prime and zoom lenses into anamorphic lenses.
The KIPON BAVEYES LPL > LPL 1.65x Rear Anamorphic Adapter was designed to bring out the best from ARRI Signature Prime lenses by vertically stretching the image by 1.65x, achieving a widescreen aesthetic. Designed with the essence of a front anamorphic lens, it is claimed to deliver a sharp central focus with a gradual falloff in sharpness toward the edges.
The adapter is crafted with five cylindrical lenses, and this innovative optical design allows a slight, intentional distortion to emulate the authentic anamorphic look. The adapter is compatible with LPL mount lenses up to 16.5mm depth (from the LPL flange). It supports a maximum T-stop of T2.8, accommodating large sensor sizes up to 44.8mm diagonally, like those of the ALEXA LF.
The adapter has a light transmission reduction of just 1.25 stops while providing an integrated electronic interface for ARRI’s Lens Data System (LDS). This allows smooth communication between the camera and lens, ensuring precise lens data.
The ALEXA LF sensor has a large 36mm x 25.54mm area with a 1.43:1 aspect ratio. When paired with a 1.65x anamorphic adapter, this format expands to approximately 2.35:1, delivering a classic widescreen composition. This makes the most of the sensor’s area and resolution, maximizing image quality for cinematic projects.
The 1.65x factor is optimized to cover the ALEXA LF’s 44.8mm diagonal sensor, ensuring that the entire sensor is used effectively. This maximizes image detail, sharpness, and exposure consistency across the frame, leveraging the high-resolution capabilities of the ARRI Signature Prime lenses without introducing limitations in coverage or quality.
While rear anamorphic adapters do not produce oval bokeh or horizontal flares, the 1.65x factor allows for a gentle sharpness falloff toward the edges and a touch of controlled distortion, closely emulating the cinematic feel of front anamorphic lenses. This subtle effect enhances depth and creates an organic look, making it ideal for projects where the goal is a natural, immersive aesthetic.
Overall, using a 1.65x anamorphic factor on ALEXA LF cameras with ARRI Signature Primes provides an effective combination of resolution, aspect ratio, and cinematic character, enabling filmmakers to capture the anamorphic look without compromising the quality and detail that ARRI’s large-format sensor and premium lenses are known for.
Price & Availability
The Kipon LPL>LPL 1.65x Rear Anamorphic Adapter is now available to purchase for $8,500 USD.
