BLAZAR has launched the CATO series, a set of four anamorphic lenses built for full-frame cameras, which we first saw as prototypes at NAB 2024. This series offers a constant 2x anamorphic squeeze ratio and covers large formats while being touted as the lightest 2x full-frame anamorphic lens on the market. Included in the set are four focal lengths: 40mm T2, 55mm T2, 85mm T2.8, and 125mm T4. There are a few changes from the prototypes we saw at NAB, so let’s have a look!After covering the Remus anamorphic lens set with its constant 1.5x squeeze announced in 2023 and welcoming three new lenses to that set in September, we got a first look at the CATO series of full-frame anamorphic lenses at NAB 2024 – a new lens set with a 2x squeeze factor. BLAZAR reports that changes have been made to the prototypes showcased; namely, they have been redesigned to feature a unified 85mm front diameter, gear placement, and 82mm filter thread.FeaturesThe BLAZAR CATO series shares many features with the Remus lens set, particularly in delivering a classic anamorphic aesthetic. However, while the Remus lenses offer a 1.5x squeeze factor, the CATO lenses provide a 2x squeeze. Another distinction is that all CATO lenses feature a neutral silver flare, allowing the flare to take on the color of any direct light source. Of course, the CATO series offers different focal lengths compared to the Remus, but both lens sets use barrel distortion across their range.CATO 125mm T4 lens. Source: BLAZARThe CATO set of lenses was designed to be portable (BLAZAR states that these lenses are the lightest 2x full-frame anamorphic lenses available as of this date), weighing between 898g/1.98 lbs and 1020g/2.2 lbs and measuring from 110mm/4.3in to 134mm/5.3in. This should make them ideal for gimbal and handheld use, and they can also be used on the Ronin 4D with counterweights. All focal lengths are available with either PL or EF mounts.CATO lenses 40mm T2 & 85mm T2.8. Source: BLAZARBLAZAR CATO lens set – the specsPrice and availabilityThe set of all four BLAZAR CATO lenses is priced at $4,599. Individually, the 55mm, 85mm, and 125mm each cost $1,299, and the 40mm is priced at $1,499. The CATO series is now available for pre-order, with shipping starting in November for all lenses except the 40mm, which will ship in February 2025. For more information on the BLAZAR lenses, please see their website.Are you considering adding the CATO series to your gear? How do you feel the affordability of the CATO series impacts its accessibility for indie filmmakers? Let us know in the comments.
