Red Pro 18-85 Zoom, Anyone used with AF100?

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danielc

Well-known member
Hello, I am currently looking into this lens. This would be a one, all purpose lens I will use as a variable prime mostly.

Does anyone have any experience with it, on or off the AF100?

I will have the Solid PL system with it and support, so strength will not be the issue.

So far it seems like it is liked amongst users, looking to see how it has functioned with the AF100 owners (if any).

Thanks!
 
Dear Danielc,

Optical quality is decent, not extraordinary and not terrible either. While engraved T2.9 I've been told it's really a T3 with slight ramping through the range. I have heard a number of first hand reports covering a wide range of mechanical/optical issues, including not holding focus when zooming, focus scale being inaccurate and the lens not tracking straight.

The lens is quite heavy at about 10lbs. While your PL mount system may work, unless you have a studio support system to go underneath your kit, it will not be enough to support that lens safely. You will need additional front support. With a lens that has a 142 OD, you can't get away with only 15mm lightweight rod support system.

To support the lens properly you'll also need 15mm or 19mm studio system underneath your baseplate and a an appropriate low-bridge and support piece for the lens, I know Duclos makes a popular one that is not too expensive, you can find it on this page http://ducloslenses.com/Duclos_Lenses/supports.html

I don't know if you are interested in the lens because of the price/focal range sweet spot, or if you really need a zoom. If it is just focal range and price I could possibly be convinced to part with a slightly used set of primes for not too much more money if you don't need a zoom.
 
Hi Illya, thanks for your comment. Yeah it is mainly to range it offers for the price compared to say a 3 prime kit to get started. I am sitting on my options until I know what is best. A BT lens goes for 6000 right now, which seems like a great deal to get some range if I could only afford one lens. If a Digi Opitcal is 4000, I figured the extra 2 would be worth it. Thanks for your respond, if anyone else has some more experiences that would be great.
 
thanks matt, that could be a better lens to keep myself more versatile and mobile. how do you find the mechanics on that lens, seems vastly improved.
 
I have a rpz 17-50 and keep it on most of the time. Love the lense, except for the breathing. Most of the time I find 50mm to be long enough, and you can add a nikon 85mm to the kit for when you need more. Its not too heavy, you can use 15mm rods, and the big gears are great to work with. A great first cine.
 
thanks for the link. It is good to know that joe stated minimal to no breathing on the lens. i will have to see for myself. i have put my order in so just waiting to hear back from red and get it shipped out. cant wait to use this lens, hopefully on many projects this school year as well.
 
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