New Century Pro Series HD 2X Tele-Converter

[Tim Tyler]

Schneider Optics announces the new Century Pro Series HD 2X Tele-Converter for the Panasonic HVX200 and DVX100A/B, as well as the Sony HVR-Z1U and FX1. This professional optic instantly mounts to the camcorder lens front to effectively double focal length range in the telephoto direction, while maintaining the lens? original F-stop at full telephoto.

 

Designed in response to requests for a tele-converter offering even greater magnification than the popular Century 1.6X, the Schneider engineering team utilized leading-edge computer design techniques to successfully develop the 2X which provides extreme magnification while maintaining performance required by the new higher resolution formats.

 

This professional accessory features multi-coated glass elements to deliver ultra-sharp images free of unwanted distortion or chromatic aberration. Equipped with a bayonet mount, installation to the front of the camcorder lens is quick, easy and secure. The unit comes complete with a lens support slider for mounting on standard 15mm support rods.

 

The new 2X Tele-Converter offers a 105mm diameter front for compatibility with many existing shades, matteboxes and accessories. In fact, the company is so commited to the contention that a deep lens shade is vital to minimize flare and stray light, the new attachment ships complete with a lightweight round shade with a built-in rectangular mask. For greater protection, the face of the unit offers 102mm threads for direct attachment of Schneider 102mm clear UV filters.

 

The new Century Pro Series HD 2X Tele-Converter is available in three models: for the DVX200 (stock code OHD-20TC-HVX), for Panasonic HVX100A/B (stock code OHD-20TC-DVX), and for the Sony HVR-Z1U (stock code OHD-20TC-HDS). Suggested U.S. List Price including support slider and lens shade is $1495. For more information on this or other Century professional lenses, contact Schneider Optics, 7701 Haskell Avenue, Van Nuys, CA 91406, tel (818)766-3715; fax (818)505-9865; www.schneideroptics.com.