VenusLens has introduced two new parfocal macro zoom lenses for full-frame, which were already on display at the NAB show. The Laowa Aksen optics offer a magnification of 1–5x (45mm f/2.8) and 5–10x (for the 17.5mm f/1.7) respectively; according to the manufacturer, the latter is a world first. Thanks to the parfocal design, the focal plane should not shift when zooming. Since the zoom is internal, the working distance also remains the same: it is 40.35mm for the 1–5x Aksen and 22.48mm for the 5–10x.
Laowa Aksen 1-5X / 5-10X Macro Zooms
These new Aksen lenses also utilize Laowa's APO design to minimize chromatic aberrations and fringing, which easily occur at high magnifications. The optical design comprises 13 elements in 9 groups (1–5x) and 17 elements in 12 groups (5–10x) respectively, using multiple ED and HR lenses.
The 5-10X Ultra Macro offers support for an optional 3W coaxial LED light. This is inserted from the side and illuminates the subject along the optical axis.
The Laowa Aksen macro zoom lenses are released in two versions: one for photography and one—twice as expensive—in a cine housing with a PL mount and focus-puller compatible gear rings. The cine version is also slightly heavier, weighing 638.4 grams and 608.6 grams respectively. A lens collar allows the lenses to be attached directly to a tripod for better weight distribution. The optics measure 115.5mm and 122mm in length respectively, with a diameter of 70.2mm.
Cine version
Various mount adapters from PL to E, Z, EF, RF, L, X, or MFT are optionally available for the cine variants, while the photo versions are available directly with one of these mounts.
Price and Availability
The Laowa Aksen 45mm f/2.8 1-5X Ultra Macro APO and the 17.5mm f/1.7 5-10X Ultra Macro APO are said to be available now and cost 1,719 euros as a pair (photo version), or approx. 919 euros each when purchased individually.
