Tokina Cinema Expander 1,6x PL to PL

Tokina Cinema Expander 1.6x PL to PL – Expand Super35 image circle for 6K/8K full-frame sensors

The Tokina Cinema 1.6x Expander lets cinematographers use Super35 PL lenses on full-frame 6K and 8K cameras. It increases the image circle of Super35 PL prime and zoom lenses by 1.6x, enabling more lens choices for cameras with large sensors such as the RED Dragon with a 46.31mm (8K) diagonal sensor.

What the expander does

By enlarging the image circle, the expander adapts Super35 lenses for PL-mount cameras with full-frame or large-format sensors. As a result, you can mount familiar Super35 lenses and cover sensors up to 1.85". This provides a practical option when you want to reuse established lenses on modern high-resolution cameras.

Optical and mechanical design

Tokina designed the expander with a seven-element optical formula arranged in four groups. This layout preserves the original lens performance while controlling light fall off to a manageable 1.36 T-stops. In addition, the unit is all-mechanical, offering a robust, durable, and lightweight build that integrates with PL-mount workflows without electronics.

Recommended use

The expander works best with lenses that have a T2.0 or larger maximum aperture. Furthermore, optimal results occur when you stop the lens down to T2.8 or smaller. Following these recommendations helps maintain image quality across the expanded image circle and keeps exposure compensation consistent with the stated 1.36 T-stops.

Key features

• Adapts Super35 PL lenses for use on full-frame PL-mount cameras.
• Compatible with 6K–8K cameras and image sensors up to 1.85".
• Designed with seven optical elements in four groups to limit aperture compensation to 1.36 T-stops.
• Performs best with lenses that have a T2.0 or larger aperture and when stopped down to T2.8 or less.

Technical specifications

FAQ

Question: Can I use this expander on any PL-mount full-frame camera?
Answer: Yes, you can use it on PL-mount full-frame or large-format cameras provided the sensor size is within the compatible range (up to 1.85"). Always confirm your camera’s mount and sensor compatibility before fitting the expander.

Question: Will the expander affect exposure or aperture readings?
Answer: The Tokina expander introduces an aperture compensation of approximately 1.36 T-stops. Expect to adjust exposure accordingly when you add the expander to your lens setup.

Question: Which lenses produce the best results with this expander?
Answer: Lenses with a maximum aperture of T2.0 or larger yield the best performance. Additionally, image quality is improved when you stop those lenses down to T2.8 or smaller, as recommended by Tokina.

Question: Does the expander use electronics or motors?
Answer: No, the unit is entirely mechanical. That means it does not require power or electronic communication and relies on a robust physical construction for durability and lightweight handling.

Question: Will image quality suffer when I use a Super35 lens with this expander on a high-resolution sensor?
Answer: Tokina designed the seven-element optical system to maintain the integrity of the original lens performance and to limit light fall off to about 1.36 stops. However, following the recommended lens aperture and stopping down to T2.8 or smaller will help you achieve the best practical results on 6K and 8K sensors.