One of the big issues with Fresnel lenses is that they require focusing. Ok, so it’s not so much of an issue if your light is closer to the ground and easy to reach. But, if you’ve got lights mounted up on high stands, from the ceiling or very high rigs, readjusting the focus isn’t exactly easy. Aputure’s new F14 Fresnel is designed to overcome this issue.
Don’t get too excited just yet, though. It’s an Aputure A-Mount modifier. The mount means it’s only compatible with the Aputure LS 600D Pro (buy here) and LS1200D Pro (buy here), as well as the Electro Storm CS15 and Electro Storm XT26 also announced today. It’s A-Mount because it requires electronic communication with the light to provide both power and data transfer.
Like all Fresnel lenses, it’s designed to focus the output of your light down to a smaller, defined circle. The 14-inch Aputure F14 Fresnel contains a motorised system allowing you to go from spot to flood with an output beam angle from 18º to 40º. At least, that’s the range specified at the moment This is subject to change between now and final release. It also features automatic calibration with optimisation for light output.
This is why the Aputure F14 uses the A-Mount. It requires electrical connections with the light to let provide communication and power to control the motors contained within. The A-Mount connection also allows the Fresnel to be remotely controlled via DMX and the Sidus Link smartphone application.
While it doesn’t claim the IP65 rating of the Aputure Electro Storm CS15 and Electro Storm XT26, the Aputure F14 Fresnel does claim to sport a weather-resistant design. As with many other Fresnel lens modifiers out there, the Aputure F14 features a set of barn doors allowing you to further shape and control the light and prevent spill and reflections from hitting other surfaces. As a powered Fresnel lens, it features its own built-in controls for when it is within reach. A red knob on the side of the unit lets you adjust the zoom from flood to spot, with a display showing the current setting.
Being as large as it is at 14″ in diameter, it features its own yoke. This lets you mount the Fresnel directly with lighter weight lights, but it’s also removable so it doesn’t get in the way when using larger lights. It also includes a safety chain for added security.
Price and availability
The Aputure F14 Fresnel is scheduled to be released in Q4 2023. A price has not yet been announced but will come at a future date.
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