/PRZWT/ The domestic optical brand Viltrox officially released its first lens product after joining the L mount alliance today: AF 16mm F1.8 L. This is not a simple switch of the mount type, but marks Viltrox's significant leap from "product inclusion" to "deep integration" in the technical ecosystem. This lens redefines the value benchmark of domestic lenses in the professional full-frame system with its optical performance, electronic communication protocol and reliability design that have been rigorously verified by the L mount alliance.
Crossing the "interface" gap: A comprehensive iteration towards "excellence"
For many camera lens manufacturers, "supporting the L mount" usually means the compatibility of the physical interface. However, Wozhi Shi has deeply realized in this development process that the L mount represents a complete system standard covering optical quality, mechanical precision, electronic communication, and long-term reliability.
"After we officially launched the R&D process for the L card slot, we realized that the real challenges had just begun," said the R&D director of Weizhoushi. "Although our early engineering prototypes had reached a decent level, the requirements of the L card slot alliance compelled us to undergo several rounds of thorough iterations towards the goals of 'excellence' and 'absolute reliability'."
The depth of this "integration" is reflected in every detail: The STM stepping motor autofocus system installed on the lens has undergone a complete re-tuning from beginning to end to deeply adapt to the alliance protocol, ensuring fast, precise and quiet focusing; The lens barrel structure, sealing materials and the durability of the snap-in mechanism have undergone dozens of rounds of high-intensity tests to match the demanding usage environment of professional users. The AF 16mm F1.8 L that is ultimately presented has a significance far exceeding the mere addition of an "L" mark on the lens barrel.
Wide-angle optical design: Achieving high-quality images from the center to the edges
To achieve excellent image quality in the 16mm ultra-wide viewing angle, the lens adopts a 12-group 15-lens optical structure. Among them, 3 aspherical lenses help control distortion, and 4 ED (low dispersion) lenses are used to suppress chromatic aberration. Combined with high-definition nano multilayer coating, it can also reduce the influence of glare and ghosting even in low-light conditions.
● The practical value of the F1.8 large aperture
F1.8 large aperture provides convenience for creative work. On one hand, it enhances the shooting ability in low-light conditions, allowing for the use of a lower ISO in star photography or dark-light scenarios. On the other hand, it can also create a soft background blurring effect in wide-angle perspectives, helping to highlight the main subject.
●Reliability design for outdoor shooting
The lens focuses on practical reliability. The barrel is made of sealed materials and has a dust-proof structure. The locking mechanism has undergone multiple tests to cope with complex shooting environments. The all-metal body ensures structural strength while weighing approximately 550 grams. Its non-bulb front group design enables users to directly use 77mm standard circular filters, facilitating the creative process of landscape photographers.
System-level collaboration: Achieving profound ecological integration experience
True integration is reflected in the seamless collaboration between the lens and the camera system. AF 16mm F1.8 L strives to achieve a good integration with the system in terms of operation and functionality.
● Efficient control system
The 0.96-inch color IPS display attached to the lens can display real-time information such as object distance, depth of field, and aperture. The dual Fn custom buttons support functions like A/B focus preset, and the CLICK stepless/continuous aperture ring switch enables users to select the desired operation feel during both photography and video shooting.
● Compatible with automatic focusing and video optimization
The lens uses an STM stepping motor and has been calibrated according to the L mount protocol, enabling quiet and smooth autofocus. In terms of video performance, the lens has optimized for the breathing effect, with minimal change in the viewing angle during focus switching, making it suitable for Vlog and video shooting.
● The manifestation of ecological integration
The lens supports firmware upgrade directly using a memory card through a compatible camera body. This feature enhances the convenience of maintenance and is an indication of its integration into the L mount ecosystem.
Approach the market with sincerity: Offer competitive options
Although the L mount version involves licensing and in-depth research and development, Vossi has set the domestic price of AF 16mm F1.8 L at 2,799 yuan.
This competitive pricing conveys the sincerity of Vosys' service for L card users. "We hope to showcase Vosys' commitment to deeply integrating with each new user through this lens," the brand stated. "This is a product that we have invested a lot in and carefully refined. We hope it can become a reliable and practical creative tool in the hands of L card users, allowing us to explore even broader visual possibilities together."
