Fader ND Filter question...

[rgdfilms]

So my LWC Fader gets soft with focal lengths above 50mm. Kinda annoying... I'm thinking about just figuring out a permanent rigging solution so I can use a proper mattebox. I have a full set of awesome Schneider 4x5.65 ND filters but am wondering if there is a Fader ND filter out there that is damn near perfect. Singh-Ray? I heard Tiffen has a new one coming out... Thoughts?

 

[NeedCreative]

Which version do you have? I have the LCF Fader Mark II and haven't really seen a significantly noticable difference in sharpness below 100mm or so. I was shooting a skyline too with a lot of detail (and thank God, no aliasing) too.

I agree maybe a clip-on matte box is better though because I can't mount a hood when the fader is on. But it's also bigger. Ahhh tradeoffs...

 

[optitek]

Front filters degrade the image on long lenses when not perfectly flat. That's a fact. I do not recommend front filters with lenses above 150mm at all.
If the glass is really warped it will affect shorter lenses as well. That's what you are seeing.