The Cinelux Reduxa A1 is the first focal reducer system for the ARRI Alexa Classic, XT and SXT. I previously featured it on the site, when it was still very much in the prototype stage, but since that time, there has been a lot of developments. It is also coming to an upcoming Kickstarter, so you will be able to purchase it.
The Reduxa A1 was designed to completely modernise the front end of select older ARRI cameras by adding 0.71× focal reduction, interchangeable EF and PL mounts, electronic EF aperture control, lens data, app connectivity, and Cinelux’s new Focal Shift technology.
Focal Shift allows the reduction optic to move electronically in extremely small increments, giving you a new way to calibrate back focus for individual lenses and even improve close-focus performance at the press of a button.
The Reduxa A1 system replaces the camera’s fixed mount with an adapter plate featuring a pogo pin pad, allowing for quick, tool-less switching between different lens mounts. Users can swap between EF and PL mounts easily, turning the previously fixed-mount Alexa into a multi-mount system.
Now, some good news if you are an Alexa Mini or Amira owner, Cinelux is working on a Reduxa for those cameras.
The Focal Shift mechanism helps with zoom lenses by offering a precise, electronic way to calibrate the back focus, which is essential for maintaining parfocal performance. When using a focal reducer, the additional glass and mechanical tolerances can cause slight variations in flange depth. These small differences often cause a lens to lose its focus as you zoom. Instead of using traditional, time-consuming methods like physical shims, Focal Shift allows you to move the reduction optic internally in extremely fine 0.01 mm increments. By adjusting this position, you can effectively recalibrate the back focus to the camera, ensuring the lens remains sharp throughout its entire zoom range.
Users get electronic control over EF lens aperture via buttons on the side of the unit.
Additionally, an optional mobile app allows for remote calibration, lens preset management, and firmware updates.
The original ALEXA remains one of the most iconic digital cinema cameras ever made. Its color, dynamic range, and highlight roll-off still hold up beautifully, even today.
By concentrating the image circle of a full-frame lens onto the ALEXA’s Super 35 sensor, you’ll see a wider, full-frame-style field of view, and approximately one additional stop of light. The extra stop of light is very handy, as with older ALEXA cameras, you can’t push the EI too high.
Because early ALEXAs are built around a fixed PL mount, the Reduxa is designed as a complete, swappable mount system that allows users to change lens systems
The Reduxa A1 is more than just a speed booster, and it also gives you a modern interchangeable mount system with electronic lens communication and aperture control. According to the company, early tests indicate that the focal reducer maintains sharpness into the corners and helps resolve certain lenses better than they perform natively on a Super 35 sensor.
REDUXA A1
Designed for maximum optical performance when converting full-frame lenses to Super35. Optimised for clean edges, minimal vignetting, and precise calibration across wide-format shooting.
PURA A1
Built to accept PL and EF lenses, from Super 35 to full frame. Super 35 glass covers the full Super 35 sensor, with generous clearance for lenses with deep rear elements.
Pricing & Availability
As I mentioned earlier, the Reduxa A1 will be available via a Kickstarter campaign from the 20th of October.
Kickstarter Pricing:
- Reduxa A1: $1,995 USD
- Pura A1: $995 USD
- PL Mount: $350 USD
VIP Pricing (limited to 50 spots):
- Reduxa A1: $1,795 USD
- Pura A1: $895 USD
- PL Mount: $325 USD
To become a VIP, there is a $500 USD fully refundable deposit required, which will be deducted from the final purchase price.
On the 20th October, VIP Access opens, giving early supporters the chance to secure REDUXA A1 at the lowest possible price.
The Kickstarter campaign closes on December 10th.
