[11:06 Thu,29.January 2026 by Thomas Richter] |
The Chinese camera accessory manufacturer Benro is launching an Indiegogo campaign in a few days for a universal electronic ND filter that covers a range from ND3 to ND64 (1.5–6 stops) and fits all lenses with a thread from 67mm to 82mm. It can be controlled both via integrated buttons and a supplied Bluetooth remote control, and will be shipped with an additional dedicated mount to which further front filters can be attached. ;) Benro NE1 - Electronic VND Filter
While electronic ND filters have existed for years, they have almost exclusively been integrated into professional cinema cameras, such as those in the Sony Cinema Line or Canon Cinema EOS series, or as rather expensive specialized solutions in the PL-mount and matte box environment. What is new about Benro&s solution is the possibility of making an electronic VND filter available in the form of an external screw-on filter for classic photo and video lenses—and at a very affordable price of under 50 Euros. Technically, Benro does not rely on the known principle of classic variable ND filters, which consist of two polarizing filters twisted against each other, but rather on so-called Dye-Liquid-Crystal technology—a layer that absorbs more or less light depending on the applied voltage. Unlike conventional VNDs (two CPL discs), this light filtering is achieved without mechanical rotation and without polarization interference, thus aiming to avoid the known X-patterns of classic VNDs, especially at wide angles and high ND values. ;) Benro NE1 - Electronic VND Filter Operation: Buttons on the Filter & Bluetooth RemoteThe ND level is selected via physical buttons on the filter. Additionally, there is the NC1 Bluetooth controller with an LCD display, selectable presets, and an Auto-ND mode in which the ambient light is measured and the dimming is automatically adjusted, which is particularly practical for time-lapse recordings, run-and-gun shoots, or cameras in hard-to-reach positions. However, the adjustment of the ND filter levels is not continuous but in 0.5-stop increments, meaning stepless ND transitions are not possible, and exposure jumps may occur during recording if a change is made. ;) Benro NE1 - Electronic VND Filter The NE1 blocks UV light but allows visible and IR light to pass through. For subjects/sensors prone to IR contamination (e.g., with long exposure times), a separate IR-Cut filter may still be useful. MaterialThe NE1 uses robust Corning glass, which is equipped on both sides with AR and Nano coatings (e.g., against reflections, water/oil, scratches). The mechanical frame features light traps (raised edge, stepped grooves) for stray light suppression. The NE1&s quick-change system covers lenses with a front diameter of 67–82 mm; 86 mm is not supported. The filter holder is made of aluminum and uses V-shaped rails for quick attachment/detachment and stacking. ;) Benro NE1 - Electronic VND Filter Key Features at a Glance- Electronic VND ND3/4/6/8/12/16/24/32/64 (1.5–6 EV) - Dye-LC technology, no X-pattern, no rotation mechanism - Button operation, 0.5-EV steps - NC1 Bluetooth controller with LCD and Auto-ND - CRI ≥ 90, Haze < 1 %, ms reaction time, < 12 V - Haze < 1 % for constant clarity - Reaction time in the millisecond range - Operating voltage < 12 V - Corning glass substrate, AR/Nano coatings - Quick holder for 67–82 mm, stacking rails - Expandable with ND16, Black Mist 1/4, Star Burst 6, Streak B - Weight: 68.5g - Filter: 10h runtime (200 mAh battery), charges via USB-C - NC1 Remote Control: 21.6g, 10h runtime (200 mAh battery), charges via USB-C - Filter holder for 67-82mm lenses: 50.4g §PIC5§: Benro NE1 - Electronic VND Filter Delivery, Price, and a CaveatThe crowdfunding campaign for the Benro NE1 starts on February 2nd. It costs in the Basic Kit and in the Master Kit. Production is scheduled to begin during the campaign, with delivery starting April 15th. However, in addition to the usual warning about the risks of a crowdfunding campaign, a special caution must be issued: While Benro has decades of experience in the filter and accessory sector, it also has a problematic history with crowdfunding projects, particularly regarding delivery times, communication, and subsequent software support. For example, the campaign for the  Benro Theta self-leveling tripod experienced massive delays along with poor crisis communication from Benro—some backers are still waiting for a refund today. Therefore, it might be a good strategy to wait to buy the NE1 until after delivery and positive reviews to avoid unnecessarily risking your money. *(Thanks to M. Kexel for the report!)*  more infos at bei www.indiegogo.comdeutsche Version dieser Seite: Benro NE1 - Elektronischer variabler ND-Filter demnächst im Crowdfunding |
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