NiSi Cine Lens Athena Prime 18mm T2.2 E-Mount (Without Drop-in Filter)

NiSi Cine Lens Athena Prime 18mm T2.2 E-Mount (Without Drop-in Filter) – T2.2 aperture and 46mm image circle for full-frame and large-format

This listing describes the NiSi Athena Prime 18mm T2.2 in Sony E-mount, supplied without the Drop-In filter option. It is part of the Athena Prime series, a range of cine primes that spans ultra-wide to portrait focal lengths and is designed for filmmakers and videographers who require consistent optical performance across a lens set.

Series coverage and focal length context

The Athena Prime series covers focal lengths from 14mm ultra-wide to 135mm portrait. This 18mm lens sits near the wide-angle end of the range and complements other focal lengths in the set, enabling versatile coverage for many shooting scenarios.

Optical performance and apertures

The Athena primes use T-stop ratings to indicate actual light transmission and to help maintain consistent exposure across the set. For reference across the series:

• 14mm has a maximum aperture of T2.4.
• 18mm and 135mm have a maximum aperture of T2.2.
• 25, 35, 40, 50 and 85mm have a maximum aperture of T1.9.

The series also emphasizes ultra-low chromatic aberration and micro-contrast control to deliver finer image details.

Image circle and sensor compatibility

The Athena lenses provide an image circle of 46mm. As a result, they are suitable for use with full-frame and even large-format sensors that require a larger image circle.

Mounts and Drop-In filter system

The Athena Prime series is available in multiple mounts: ARRI PL, Canon RF, Sony E, Panasonic/Leica L and Fuji G. NiSi offers a proprietary rear filtration system in the series:

• The RF, L and G mounts have a Drop-In filter option.
• The E-mount is offered in two versions: with Drop-In filter and without Drop-In filter. This product is the E-mount version without the Drop-In filter.
• The PL-mount utilizes a rear filter.

NiSi also provides weather sealing for the Drop-In filter when that option is used.

Important compatibility notes

• Sony FX9: The Sony FX9 camera cannot use the E-mount with Drop-In filters.
• Infinity focus: It is important to use the Drop-In clear filter on RF, L, G and E mounts (when the Drop-In option is fitted) and the rear filter on PL-mount lenses to achieve infinity focus and obtain clear images.

Handling, mechanics and consistency across the series

NiSi designed the Athena primes for consistent handling across the range. Key mechanical and usability facts include:

• All Athena Prime lenses are similar in weight. They do not require rebalancing on a gimbal when switching between Athena lenses.
• Except for the 14mm lens, all lenses share a 77mm front filter thread.
• Both aperture and focus rings are matched across the range for consistent feel and operation.
• Focus rotation is 300°, aiding precise focus pulls.
• Fluorescent focus scales are provided and displayed in both imperial and metric units.
• The lenses use standard 0.8 mod focus and iris gears, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of follow focus and matte box systems.

Optional accessory

NiSi offers a 77mm close-up lens (sold separately). You can use this close-up lens to reduce the minimum focus distance and create macro-style effects when needed.

Specifications

FAQ

Question: Does this 18mm E-mount version include the Drop-In filter?
Answer: No. This specific listing is for the Sony E-mount 18mm T2.2 version supplied without the Drop-In filter option. NiSi also offers an E-mount version that includes a Drop-In filter.

Question: Can I use the E-mount Drop-In filter version on a Sony FX9 camera?
Answer: No. The Sony FX9 camera cannot use the E-mount with Drop-In filters. If you need Drop-In filtration for other camera systems, check the mount compatibility list.

Question: Will switching between Athena lenses affect gimbal balance?
Answer: No. All Athena Prime lenses are similar in weight, so switching lenses in the series does not require rebalancing on a gimbal.

Question: How do I achieve infinity focus when using Drop-In or rear filters?
Answer: Use the Drop-In clear filter on RF, L, G and E mounts (when fitted) and the rear filter on PL-mount lenses. Using the correct filter position is important to achieve infinity focus and clear images.

Question: Are the focus and aperture controls compatible with industry-standard accessories?
Answer: Yes. The Athena primes feature standard 0.8 mod focus and iris gears, and matched aperture and focus rings across the set, making them compatible with common follow focus and matte box systems.

For further questions about this 18mm E-mount lens or to confirm mount and filter options for your camera, please contact Voosestore — we can source lenses and accessories if a specific configuration is not listed.