The Blazar Lens Cato 2x Anamorphic Lenses are finally available to pre-order. The Cato series are very affordable full-frame 2x anamorphic lenses.
The series underwent significant changes after debuting the prototypes at NAB 2024. All four focal lengths have been redesigned to have a unified front diameter, gear placement, and filter thread. These choices, paired with their compact size, are what make the Cato Series well-suited for gimbal use and handheld use. They are even able to fly on the Ronin 4D with the use of counterweights.
Last month at IBC 2024 in Amsterdam, Blazar Lens showed full production versions of the Cato 2x Anamorphic series that were first announced just prior to NAB 2024 in Las Vegas.
Above you can see our interview with Blazar Lens at IBC 2024.
The Cato Series features a consistent, 2x anamorphic squeeze ratio and covers large formats. The 4 lens set includes a 40mm T2.4, 50mm T2, 85mm T2.8, and 125mm T3.2.
Each focal length has been optimized at different apertures, with the 40mm and 55mm being the fastest at a T2.
Like Blazar’s Remus Series, the Cato is claimed to feature a traditional anamorphic look in its images by balancing retro characteristics with a clean, modern look. The lenses employ barrel distortion in their anamorphic design, and feature a neutral, silver flare that takes on the color of any direct light source.
Each focal length has been optimized at different apertures, with the 50mm being the fastest at a T2.
The image circle coverage is different between the various focal lengths, just like the T stops. I had a quick play with a couple of the lenses at IBC 2024, and they look pretty decent. The 50mm did have quite a lot of barrel distortion and both the 50mm and 40mm will vignette on full frame open gate sensor modes, although, if you crop to 2.39:1 or 2.40:1 then that disappears.
Image Circle Coverage
| IMAGE CIRCLE COVERAGE | |
| 40mm T2.4 | 28.8 x 24mm |
| 50mm T2 | 28.8 x 24mm |
| 85mm T2.8 | 36 x 24mm |
| 125mm T3.2 | 36 x 24mm |
You need to make compromises if you are going to come up with affordable 2x anamorphic lenses. You can’t have your cake and eat it too. I don’t think anyone can really complain though, as these lenses are considerably more affordable than anything else on the market.
Above is a short film called ‘Gold Bastard’ by Matt Bendo, CSC, AIC that was shot entirely on the Cato series.
Above you can see some images from a short film called ‘Gold Bastard’ by Matt Bendo, CSC, AIC.
The Cato series features the same silver and black design as the Remus series, and features focus markings in both feet and meters. All the focal lengths are available in PL or EF mount.
All the focal lengths weigh between 853g and 940g and measure 110mm to 134mm in length. They all feature a 85mm front diameter and a 82mm front filter diameter.
Pricing & Availability
The Cato 4-Lens Set costs $4,599 USD. The 55/85/125mm cost $1299 USD each, while the 40mm costs $1499 USD when purchased à la carte. The Cato Series will be available for pre-order on October 8th.
The 55/85/125mm will begin shipping in November. The 40mm will ship separately in February 2025.
