18-85 T2.9 RED zoom...

[Jannard]

The RED 18-85 zoom begins shipping today. Small quantities at 1st. You are going to love this lens...

Jim

[Brandon Fraley]

sweetness :)

[Jim Hoffman]

When can they be purchased?

[Darren Orange]

Woot! We are certainly getting this! Hey Right on time also :ninja:

When will it be back up in the store and when will we get some sweet pictures to look at?

[Jannard]

OffHollywood gets the 1st one... I'm sure Mark will post some results.

Jim

[J. Bernard Vallon]

Man...Mark gets all the good toys first...

[Carl Larsen]

It's a good day to be mark.

[Shawn Bannon]

awesome can we please see some photos?

[Ken Willinger]

I can't remember what my reservation number is...I hope you do!!

[Chris Parker]

when i ordered my red, i also ordered this lens. i never got a reservation number though. i hope this doesn't bump me to the back of the line.....

how many units a month??

[Joseph Hutson]

Will these work with the "NEW SCARLET"? Just kidding. Congratulations, Jim. You work so hard, as the rest of your committed Red Team. :nerd:

[Brent@RED]

Remember, our backorder fulfillment policy is allocating in order of camera delivery date. So, the 18-85's will go out in that order just like all other backordered accessories.

Emails going out in the new few minutes to the first people in line.

BC

[Mark Toia]

Very cool indeed, Looking forward to receiving ours.

But the one we will all love to have you guys make is a 25 to 290 Optimo RED replacement....
MAN, NOW THATS A LENS and you guys will be GOD's if you make something like that with your RED pricing.... GOD"S!!

[Mike Smith]

I have never seen a definitive answer to this question... does the 18-85mm zoom have i/data?

[Gunleik Groven]

so that sorta answers my question... Great!

[Andrew M.]

Remember, our backorder fulfillment policy is allocating in order of camera delivery date. So, the 18-85's will go out in that order just like all other backordered accessories.

Emails going out in the new few minutes to the first people in line.

BC

Any high res pictures of the lenses itself?
pictures.....
pictures....

from behind as well


Are we going to get e-mail to send the rest of the money few days ahead of shipment?

Andrew

[Brent@RED]

Just like other accessories, we will email you that your lens has been allocated and to pay. Once we receive payment and confirm shipping address, we begin order processing.

BC

[Mark L. Pederson]

OffHollywood gets the 1st one... I'm sure Mark will post some results.

Jim

I know what I'm doing this weekend!!

[Greg M]

OffHollywood gets the 1st one... I'm sure Mark will post some results.

Jim

Doesn't Digital FX get the second one?

[Tom Lowe]

Jim, any chance you guys are working on super badass 10mm T2 or T2.8 rectilinear lens? With a Canon mount the EF-S 10-22 is a fantastic lens, but rather slow at f/3.5.

Sorry for randomly tossing in only remotely related questions. :)

[Gunleik Groven]

OK.

Just have to restate that THIS IS FANTASTIC NEWS!

I have SOOOO been waiting for the RED "pro" lenses to start to siffle into the market. Really looking foreward to see the first images from this piece of gear.

CONGRATULATIONS!

[Roberto B]

So, my serial number of 370 and that $750 deposit that I made on January 22, 2007 was for nothing?:) just simply perfect.

[Paul Hazlett]

So, my serial number of 370 and that $750 deposit that I made on January 22, 2007 was for nothing?

Not true, I was told at NAB this year that your original reservation number
for the lens is still correct...right guys?

not to beat a dead horse, but is the 50-150 being made at the same factory as the 18-85?. I have dibs on both lenses but just wondering which one will
show up first.

[Brent@RED]

Not true, I was told at NAB this year that your original reservation number
for the lens is still correct...right guys?

Your reservation for the 18-85 is still valid, of course. But backorder fulfillment will be in order of camera delivery date - just like all other accessories.

This is the same thing the we dealt with on 18-50s - we are not tying delivery allocation to lens serial number. When you took delivery of your camera locks your place for backorder fulfillment.

Thanks, BC

[Peter Karlsson]

And whats the price now again?!?

[Brent@RED]

Andrew, if you'd like to call me to discuss, please feel free. I am trying to give information here (our backorder fulfillment policy) and also examples of the same practice with the 18-50s, 50-150s, and 300s (original reservation number of lens not tied to delivery date - based on camera delivery date).

BC

[Jannard]

I have never seen a definitive answer to this question... does the 18-85mm zoom have i/data?

No.

Jim

[Sam Roberts]

screw in filter capable? what size?

[Paul Hazlett]

And whats the price now again?!?

9975, worth triple the price....as Jim puts it, which I have no doubt.

[Florian Stadler]

When is it going to be in the store again? I will put down a deposit as soon as I see some results from the lens and see how it feels mechanically. Are you guys going to have one at the Red Store? I hate buying lenses without being able to get a feel for them first.

What drove the decision not to implement i function?

[JanneJansson]

How do I pre order one? :)

[Obin Olson]

images of this bad boy?

[Brent@RED]

Now that we have started shipping (in limited quantities), it will be back up in the store very soon. Price is $9975 USD.

Yes, we have one in the RED Store at RED if you did not have a chance to see one in person at NAB. The BOMB SQUAD has not left it alone since Jarred put it in there :)

BC

[Brent J. Craig]

It's an unusual choice not to include iData pins. Any reason why?

[Clint Johnson]

Andrew, if you'd like to call me to discuss, please feel free. I am trying to give information here (our backorder fulfillment policy) and also examples of the same practice with the 18-50s, 50-150s, and 300s (original reservation number of lens not tied to delivery date - based on camera delivery date).

BC

Yup, Red is all about the "things can and will change".

I signed the contract on September 25, 2006 (two year anniversary tomorrow) for "Serial Number 18Z-000038". But the contract states "Red makes no promises or representations as to the delivery date of the camera or final specifications." I took that "camera" in there to be referring to the lens- just left over boilerplate from the document being based on the one created for the Red One body.

I understand that things change and policies get finalized, so I'm not complaining over much about it... just a little miffed that a leap of faith and two years of waiting is rewarded with three hundred people stepping into the line in front of me.

Okay, I got my little whinge over with and will go back to waiting for my email. At least I can console myself that if I'm gonna get the prime set when they're available I'll be ahead of about five thousand other Red Owners.

[Tai Wah Lim]

OffHollywood gets the 1st one... I'm sure Mark will post some results.

Jim

Lucky Mark - but then he always keep us well informed - Lim

[david farland]

Okay so the next stupid question.

But one that affect people so much.

What will the 18-85mm monthly shipping quantities be?

Dave

[Justin Kirchhoff]

I love this news, I wish I had a little more notice just so I could have somehow allocated the funds...I'm not complaining really, I just want this lens BAD.

[Pierce Cook]

Will the 18-85 fit in the RED case that you sell like the 50-150 would (the hole that allows the extra length in the top layer)?

This is exciting - looking forward to seeing anything you can show us when you get it, Mark! (Hey, will you take a few pics of the lens itself, too?)

[Brent@RED]

Good call, Pierce. I just checked. No, it will not - WAY too much lens for that slot.

BC

[Justin Kirchhoff]

could a member of the red team post a pic of the 18-85 next to a 300 please.

[Jeff Kilgroe]

So, my serial number of 370 and that $750 deposit that I made on January 22, 2007 was for nothing?

Apparently so...

In most situations, I agree with the backorder policy of delivering in order of when people received their cameras. But I'm not so sure about that policy here. However, I'm not sure what fair would be. Lens deposits opened up after the initial 1000 or so camera reservations were already complete and they're probably mixed up.

To go along with my RED camera #1110, I had a reservation for a 300mm that was under #200 and an 18-85mm reservation under #400. But with the 300mm Pro being announced before my camera shipped and no 18-85 available yet, I just used my deposits toward my camera purchase. So what does that do to me?

I just hope the pending orders can be filled quickly and it doesn't turn into a wait like we saw with the EVF or the 50-150 lens. Personally, I'm undecided on the 18-85mm -- I loved the lens I saw at NAB. But I already own that Cooke 18-100... And I have most of my remaining RED budget already earmarked for that prime set.

[T. Glen Phelps]

Originally Posted by VMax
I have never seen a definitive answer to this question... does the 18-85mm zoom have i/data?



No.

Jim


Will the RED prime lenses have the Cooke /i interface?

[Brigham Edgar]

Hey guys,

HOW MANY DO YOU EXPECT TO BE SHIPPING PER MONTH???????

I have a 50-150mm i have paid for and been waiting on for an eternity. I'm thinking to maybe change this for the 18-85, BUT...i need to know if i'm gonna be put back another eternity before it'll get to my number.

Please someone from RED, give us an answer.

[Yean Loon]

WooHoo!!!!!!

[RivaiC]

No.

Jim

But, it's supposed to be or not ?

[Jeff Kilgroe]

No.

Jim

No /i data on the 18-85? Awww... Gee whiz... Guess I don't have any reason to sell my Cooke.

[gbalaji]

Sorry for my ignorance.

I've not seen 18-85mm lens in Red store online.

[Brent@RED]

It will be back in the online store soon.

BC

[david farland]

Red guys,
as much as you have risks in telling us a delivery rate we have NO idea when we may get an item we wish to purchase and therefore have no idea when/if we should budget for it.
I suppose 'small quantities at 1st' ??....weeks, month, quarter?? is an answer to the first few reservation holders but not to the hundreds of others.
'don't know' or no response is another answer but suggests an early beta trial with no known production run date.I know you guys have been burnt stating release dates before but (please note) the whole let's get them salivating/tease stuff does cause a pretty good negative backlash nowdays.
i feel you need a slight correction on this policy. Production run quanties (?) may begin in xx month or maybe delayed by yy weeks/months/years if problems is a great answer!
Please help us help you sell Red products....
Cheers,
Dave,

[donatello b]

any future plans to have i/data on 18-85 ??

"signed the contract on September 25, 2006 (two year anniversary tomorrow) for "Serial Number 18Z-000038"

hey i have #37 !!!

[Jarred Land]

We aren't teasing David.. we are actually shipping and in full production run.

Although I am not very excited about the way you packaged your question, I do get your point and understand the need for a response.

The 18-85's are built one by one and it's a pretty time consuming process, we are hoping to ship about 50 per month.

No future plans to have i/data on the 18-85mm or the RED Primes.

Hope that answers your questions.

[david farland]

Thanks for the info.
Yes, your correct onthe way I packaged by post because I re-read it and thought...yeah it's a bit brutish and was going to add a postscript...but then realised the content was okay (very roughly!) and didn't know what to take out. but yes...delivery could have been better.
Dave.

[CJ Roy]

Where can I get the specs for this lens? Missed NAB.

Thanks.

[Brook Willard]

What'd the OD?

[Peter Majtan]

Jarred, pardon my ignorance, but what is the point of the FREE iCable HW fix if You are not planing to put iPin on Your lenses? What is the purpose of the iCable then and why is it being fixed now?

[Jarred Land]

OD is (corrected) 142mm...

Our compact zooms (18-50 and 50-150) have I-pin support.

[CJ Roy]

How is the ramping and breathing on it?

Thanks.

[T. Glen Phelps]

. . . No future plans to have i/data on the 18-85mm or the RED Primes.

Hope that answers your questions.

Thats disapointing:sad:

[Jarred Land]

screw in filter capable? what size?

138mm, p 1.0mm

[Jannard]

How is the ramping and breathing on it?

Thanks.

Incredibly good ramping and breathing characteristics... trained professionals duly impressed.

Jim

[PaulClements]

Congrats... Do you have any footage? Even just charts, ramp tests, low light tests etc would be interesting, stills or video.

Cheers
Paul

[Peter Majtan]

OD is 139mm...

Our compact zooms (18-50 and 50-150) have I-pin support.

So then why would You have a I-pin support on the "compact" lenses and the omit it from the "pro" series and the primes? To be honest I was not planing on buying RED lenses (I have a nice "L" glass collection from Canon and will rent ARRI glass for big jobs), but the I-pin made me thinking about it. Without the I-pin functionality I have that much less reason to consider this option, no matter how fantastic and affordable the RED lenses are...

PS: I with Tom on this one - I would absolutely snap a 10 mm rectilinear wide prime with T equal or bellow 2.0... :) :) :)

[Mark L. Pederson]

Congrats... Do you have any footage? Even just charts, ramp tests, low light tests etc would be interesting, stills or video.

Cheers
Paul

Paul, I'll post stills and video asap.

[Tico Llaurador]

Mark, time to step up building security in your new digs!

[david farland]

....I'll post stills and video asap.

...why don't you post me your lens!

[PaulClements]

Paul, I'll post stills and video asap.
Thanks Mark, look forward to seeing them. If you get a chance please stick on a Cooke or Angeneiux for comparison on any tests.

Much appreciated
Paul

[Jeff Kilgroe]

No future plans to have i/data on the 18-85mm or the RED Primes.

Bummer. :sad:

Oh well, I'm still super-excited about the new Pro lenses. Bring on those primes!

[Darren Orange]

Yea the I/data is pretty important.

I'm sure the glass is great. The major issue is that on any project that would have any VFX elements we pretty much must have a lens with i/data.

So far all the CG companies I have talked to seem to love RED ONE not just because well...you know the reasons but also because it has the ability to capture the lens data frame for frame via the i/data.

I am not sure what the total plan is for the primes or the 18-85mm or any future glass. But for any larger projects that even have a chance of using VFX the i/data is a must.

I still want the 18-85mm but a lot of the things we do will call for VFX which makes it hard because VFX will say use another lens.

Thanks RED for doing a great job and making an awesome product and having the support and team to back it up. These are just my thoughts, albeit trying to be as objective as I can, I could be wrong.

Rock on RED TEAM!

[PaulClements]

So far all the CG companies I have talked to seem to love RED ONE not just because well...you know the reasons but also because it has the ability to capture the lens data frame for frame via the i/data.
Have Red started installing the /i link in the mount yet?

Paul

[Andrew M.]

Yea the I/data is pretty important.

I'm sure the glass is great. The major issue is that on any project that would have any VFX elements we pretty much must have a lens with i/data.

So far all the CG companies I have talked to seem to love RED ONE not just because well...you know the reasons but also because it has the ability to capture the lens data frame for frame via the i/data.

I am not sure what the total plan is for the primes or the 18-85mm or any future glass. But for any larger projects that even have a chance of using VFX the i/data is a must.

I still want the 18-85mm but a lot of the things we do will call for VFX which makes it hard because VFX will say use another lens.

Thanks RED for doing a great job and making an awesome product and having the support and team to back it up. These are just my thoughts, albeit trying to be as objective as I can, I could be wrong.

Rock on RED TEAM!


I second this.
Shooting in RAW with i/data takes all the guess work out of the process.
I guess I will wait a bit longer, maybe RED will include i/data on this lens in the future.

[Mark L. Pederson]

It's here!

Stay tuned ...

[Tico Llaurador]

Way cool!

[Matt Uhry]

Incredibly good ramping and breathing characteristics... trained professionals duly impressed.

Jim

I'll second that, I played extensively with one at NAB and found it to be very tasty in every respect. Quite a bit like my Cooke 18-100, but a little smaller / lighter and it seemed to have better field illumination. Mechanics were excellent.

If anyone in LA gets an early 18-85 we can run it side by side with our Cooke and see how they stack up.

Matt Uhry
www.mattuhry.com

[CJ Roy]

Incredibly good ramping and breathing characteristics... trained professionals duly impressed.

Jim

Excellent. Looking forward to seeing some test footage, then I can put in my order.

Thanks!

[Brent@RED]

Have Red started installing the /i link in the mount yet?

Paul

Yes, cameras are now shipping with upgraded audio board and i/pins. Existing camera owners can expect an email from me in the new few days with an overview of our upgrade program where we will put in the audio board and i/pins into every camera in the field - at no charge to the customer. This will fire up by the end of September.

BC

[Jan Reiff]

i have some headache when i think about sending back the camera from europe to usa for some upgradings ... my experience with the customs are enough for this year.
any news about the european service?

[Ernesto Lomeli]

It is my understanding that this lens is Supposed to be designed "inhouse"
instead of a rehoused Still Camera Lenses. I am assuming the I/Data was easily accomplished because its was already built in.

Since this lens is supposed to be built from the ground up, implementing the I/Data feature might have complicated manufacturing and costs and instead was removed inorder to keep the price range desired.

[Jarred Land]

i have some headache when i think about sending back the camera from europe to usa for some upgradings ... my experience with the customs are enough for this year.
any news about the european service?

"Very" soon :)

[Jan Reiff]

that is music in european´s ears:blush:

[Dominic Cochran]

Jarred or Brent, are you guys going to post pics of this lens?

[Brook Willard]

No future plans to have i/data on the 18-85mm or the RED Primes.


That's a bummer.

Has much changed on the lens since NAB?

[Jan Reiff]

and we have BIG ears here ...

(scene from yesterday shoot for a theater commercial, quicktime proxie)

[Jarred Land]

That's a bummer.

Has much changed on the lens since NAB?

There was never, ever any plan to have i/pin support on the 18-85mm or the Primes...

The 18-85 internally however has changed quite a bit, the performance has been significantly improved, the foot marks are more accurate.. plus a few other cosmetic changes.

[Johann Schulz]

So Cooke will have the only "pro lenses" with i/pin support useable with the RED ONE? (I'm vastly paraphrasing)....

I want to buy a lens for my new camera, but in my budget at the moment, what's the best a guy can do?

Any ideas? I guess you can't go wrong for the money with the original RED 18-50mm zoom? Put your order in for this 18-85 honking baby,.... and rent when you need others. FIN?!...

[barnstormerfilms]

My only question...and this pertains to why we haven't ordered the lens yet.

Has the breathing been taken care of? The breathing on the 18-50 is so bad its to the point of being unusable for many of our applications. If the new lens doesn't breath as much I'll order a few today.

Sincerely,
Michael Siegelman

[Mark L. Pederson]

guys - I am going to post pics in a few hours - I'm doing ten things at once today - and footage over the weekend - but I'll tell you this - this lens is SERIOUS ... I am extremely impressed!

I will order more.

RED needs to band this, and the forthcoming primes as PRO - as our biggest challenge is going to be making sure folks know this is NOT in the ballpark of the 18-50. TOTALY different animal.

[Mitch Gross]

Mark came by the office today to show me the lens for a few minutes. Didn't have time to do anything more than look at it cosmetically; we'll see if there's a chance to bench test it next week (if we can pry it from Mark's hands for a few minutes!). But it is definitely in a different league from the small RED zooms. I hooked Mark up with some sweet accessories that I'm sure he'll post about soon enough, or at least as soon as I let him! ;-) It's definitely a sexy setup.

[Johann Schulz]

Obviously, my research isn't done!...

[Jarred Land]

RED needs to band this, and the forthcoming primes as PRO

Mark look at the box :)

http://www.reduser.net/forum/uploaded/1_cm capture 13.jpg

[Mark L. Pederson]

Mark look at the box :)

http://www.reduser.net/forum/uploaded/1_cm capture 13.jpg

THAT is funny - I just ripped it open!!

[Jarred Land]

THAT is funny - I just ripped it open!!

i did the same thing over here :)

[Cal Brunker]

Sorry if this has been covered...How much does this bad boy weigh?

[RivaiC]

Will be curious how it holds to ultra or master prime lenses

[Jarred Land]

Sorry if this has been covered...How much does this bad boy weigh?

4.5 pounds...

[Jannard]

4.5 pounds...

He's kidding... real weight in a second.

Jim

[Mark L. Pederson]

4.5 pounds...

I think you mean 4.5 kg

[Jarred Land]

yes sorry... 4.5 Kg...

[Sanjin Jukic]

yes sorry... 4.5 Kg...

That's exactly I was guessing.

[michael zaletel]

Nice box!

-shooter

[Dominic Cochran]

Ok, so you've posted a picture of the box. We have ten pages of posts and no pictures of the lens itself. Of course I'd RATHER see pictures taken WITH the lens, but for crying out loud, if these are shipping then what's the big secret?

[David Mutchler]

Jim you're killing me. No i/data in the 18-85mm? You were so close to making the perfect lens, now I feel like we stopped just short of the finish line. Please, let's get back in the race and add i/data and cross that line together.

[Cal Brunker]

Can't wait to see a photo of this guy on the RED. It sounds like a monster!

[Jannard]

Jim you're killing me. No i/data in the 18-85mm? You were so close to making the perfect lens, now I feel like we stopped just short of the finish line. Please, let's get back in the race and add i/data and cross that line together.

We gave you a perfect optical design, no ramping or breathing, calibrated T-stops and focus marks, in a professional built package for 1/5th what the other guys would sell this lens for.

If you need /i, call 1(800) COOKE.

Jim

[John Wee]

When and where can I place an order for this Lens ?? It is not on the website yet.

[Jannard]

It will go up on the website soon... but you can call Brent or Kelly. (949) 206-7900.

Jim

[Cal Brunker]

Jim, you're a strong guy, can you hand hold this badass? or are we looking at steadicams and sticks on this one?

How is it for length/counterbalancing?

Cal

[Jannard]

It is a big dog... I don't hand hold this because I'm getting too old. :-) But it is the best lens I own.

It is just over 11" long and 138mm filter.

Jim

[Jason Ing]

If you need /i, call 1(800) COOKE.

Jim

LOL. :)

Never afraid to tell it like it is.

[T. Glen Phelps]

We gave you a perfect optical design, no ramping or breathing, calibrated T-stops and focus marks, in a professional built package for 1/5th what the other guys would sell this lens for.

If you need /i, call 1(800) COOKE.

Jim

That's unfortunate. I think you would have had many, many more lens customers (including non-RED owners) if your lenses provided /i data. Great optical design with no ramping or breathing at a reasonable price is excellent (and what we have come to expect from RED) but those who need /i data and these attributes will have no other choice but to go with Cooke.

[JanneJansson]

There was never, ever any plan to have i/pin support on the 18-85mm or the Primes...

The 18-85 internally however has changed quite a bit, the performance has been significantly improved.


That is good. I-pin data is for lazy VFX guys :) Use a paper and a pen and problem solved. I rather have a sharp crisp and beautiful shoot from perfect optics, then electronic features.

[Todd Anderson]

Hello Jim and Jarred,

Can you tell me if there are any known issues with the new 18-85mm working with a traditional PL mount film camera, as well (An Arri BL4, etc for instance)? And I know, I know... don't kick my ass or throw eggs for asking this questions :)

It's just that it would be nice for it to be duel purpose...I know there were some issues with the Angenieux 'Rouge' in that regards. Though, maybe that had more to do with Angenieux not wanting to cannibalize there own product, versus being technically possible, perhaps...?

Thanks!
Todd

[shocklight]

I've searched threads on this issue, but I'd just like to state my understanding of this issue so I can be corrected if I'm wrong:

Priority for shipping is based exclusively on my Red One serial number. So ordering today will get me the lens no sooner than ordering next week because the queue is based not on order date of the lens, but order date of the camera.

Thank you in advance.

[Jannard]

Hello Jim and Jarred,

Can you tell me if there are any known issues with the new 18-85mm working with a traditional PL mount film camera, as well (An Arri BL4, etc for instance)? And I know, I know... don't kick my ass or throw eggs for asking this questions :)

It's just that it would be nice for it to be duel purpose...I know there were some issues with the Angenieux 'Rouge' in that regards. Though, maybe that had more to do with Angenieux not wanting to cannibalize there own product, versus being technically possible, perhaps...?

Thanks!
Todd

No issues...

Jim

[Darren Orange]

That is good. I-pin data is for lazy VFX guys :) Use a paper and a pen and problem solved. I rather have a sharp crisp and beautiful shoot from perfect optics, then electronic features.


Hardly, Try it on a Rack Focus. :whistling:

[Todd Anderson]

.. Cool. Thanks, Jim.

[Jarred Land]

I've searched threads on this issue, but I'd just like to state my understanding of this issue so I can be corrected if I'm wrong:

Priority for shipping is based exclusively on my Red One serial number. So ordering today will get me the lens no sooner than ordering next week because the queue is based not on order date of the lens, but order date of the camera.

Thank you in advance.

We are re-visiting this internally... Brent will update you on the outcome.

[C.H.Haskell]

Mark I am going to hunt you down...that lens is dangerous!

[Michele Gavazzeni]

A Picture of this lens?

[Jeff Kilgroe]

If you need /i, call 1(800) COOKE.

...And that won't help you in all respects. Cooke does not offer the /i data contacts on their 18-100! Or at least they did not the last time I checked, which wasn't all that long ago.

[Chris Parker]

That is good. I-pin data is for lazy VFX guys :) Use a paper and a pen and problem solved. I rather have a sharp crisp and beautiful shoot from perfect optics, then electronic features.

Yeah, you're right. A Cooke S4 has such shitty optics. Hmmmm.

[C.H.Haskell]

I must admit I was also surprised no i data, I was always under the assumption that all RED branded glass would feed data to the camera (eventually)...but if it meant making the lens 3 times the price for the i/data then it would not be worth it of course. So is i/data an 18-50 exclusive? Not trying to get off topic.

[Mitch Gross]

Didn't anyone take a photo at NAB? The lens looks the same on the outside.

[Peter Majtan]

http://www.red.com/skin/img/nab_2008/red_lenses.png

[Jannard]

I must admit I was also surprised no i data, I was always under the assumption that all RED branded glass would feed data to the camera (eventually)...but if it meant making the lens 3 times the price for the i/data then it would not be worth it of course. So is i/data an 18-50 exclusive? Not trying to get off topic.

The 50-150mm also has /i.

Jim

[Jarred Land]

Just an updated correction (sorry) the External Diameter is 142mm... Changed from 139mm of the previous sample.

We are confirming internal threads, I will let you know shortly.

[Jannard]

Does this mean the MB-20 no longer works as a mattebox for this lens?

I does just fit... whew!

Jim

[Jeff Kilgroe]

Will have to double-check the Redrock mattebox, but I think owners of that mattebox may need to get out the sandpaper. I think it's a 141mm bellows.

[Mitch Gross]

What size is the unit in Off Hollywood's hands? 142mm or 139mm OD? I didn't have a chance to measure this morning.

[Mark L. Pederson]

okay - FINALLY I'm back at the shop - time take some photos!!

[Martin Weiss]

Didn't anyone take a photo at NAB?
I did, there was mostly space and no lenses.
http://www.reduser.net/forum/uploaded/8467_1222379345.jpg

[Jarred Land]

I've searched threads on this issue, but I'd just like to state my understanding of this issue so I can be corrected if I'm wrong:

Priority for shipping is based exclusively on my Red One serial number. So ordering today will get me the lens no sooner than ordering next week because the queue is based not on order date of the lens, but order date of the camera.

Thank you in advance.

We are re-visiting this internally... Brent will update you on the outcome.

[Gunleik Groven]

I did, there was mostly space and no lenses.
http://www.reduser.net/forum/uploaded/8467_1222379345.jpg

That sorta looks like ibc...

[Brent@RED]

After getting a LOT of customer feedback, we have talked about this a LOT here at RED and we are going to make an exception to the RED backorder fulfillment policy. This is a one-time deal for the 18-85. Here is how it will work:

* We will fulfill in order of RED 18-85 reservation number that was given when early orders were taken. Your receipt from that day should have a reservation number looking like 18Z-000### (or 000###).

* For all orders placed AFTER those reservation numbers ceased being assigned, the standard backorder policy will be in effect (ie, fulfilled in order of camera delivery date - one lens per camera).

* If you had a 18Z-000### (or 000###) reservation and switched that reservation to an 18-50 when we only had 18-50s available, we will honor your original 18-85 reservation number as your place in line.

* If you have a 18Z-000### 18-85 (or 000###) reservation number and have NOT taken delivery of your RED ONE, an 18-85 will NOT be allocated to you unless you take delivery of your RED ONE.

* If we notify you via email that your 18-85 is ready and you do not take delivery within 30 days, your 18-85 will be unallocated and go to the next person in line for allocation.

As most of you know, Brian Byrne is our BOMB SQUAD rep who handles backorders. He will be working with me and Kelly to get this allocation system set up with the above rules. Once it is set, Brian will start sending out emails. He is the person you will want to check with on backorder status. His email is brianb - at - red - dot - com .

Thanks for all the feedback that everyone provided. These changes are a direct reflection of us listening to and weighing your opinions.

BC

PS, I will post here when the RED PRO 18-85 is listed in the online RED store.

[B Newberry]

Hells ya. Cant wait for this thing. rez # 31. Whoohoo!!!

[Mike Prevette]

138mm, p 1.0mm

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!

[Greg M]

Excellent...that makes me #24

[Jeff Kilgroe]

:) 18-85 #380... Rock on!

So, can I transfer my #194 300mm reservation to the RED Pro 300? ...Just askin' :whistling:

[Curran Giddens]

I wish I could afford it right now....

[Tico Llaurador]

Some people have all the luck...

:)

[Paul Hazlett]

After getting a LOT of customer feedback, we have talked about this a LOT here at RED and we are going to make an exception to the RED backorder fulfillment policy. This is a one-time deal for the 18-85. Here is how it will work:

* We will fulfill in order of RED 18-85 reservation number that was given when early orders were taken. Your receipt from that day should have a reservation number looking like 18Z-000###.


My res is from my original PDF deposit page, and does not have the 18z prefix.

Am I still good? Maybe you guys should send out and email blast to ask
if lens res holders are still interested and to reconfirm, lots of cams changed hands and what not.

Just a thought.

[Brent@RED]

Paul, send me that pdf to brent - at - red - dot -com .

That is exactly what we do. We will send an email to each person asking if they still want the backordered item. If so, settle the balance due and confirm delivery address.

BC

[Mark L. Pederson]

so, here was my quick fix lens support solution - (thanks to Mitch at Abel) - it's a Zacuto Q-Mount Studio + 3.5" rod with a furniture felt pad on it - $260 ish - I really like it - snaps right onto the 19mm

much more to come - I just totally in the weeds here -

this is with the RedRock MB - and yeah - about 1mm too tight - but snugs up just fine - I will have some surprise photos of some NEW accessories very soon - shooting footage this weekend -

[Ernesto Lomeli]

Whats the CF on the lens, and how is the throw on the barrel ?
Also the pitch on the gearing looks a little different?

[C.H.Haskell]

From what I remember at NAB, this monster felt like what any respectable DP would expect from pro glass...mechanically speaking, smooth as butter.

Mark...nice work man, now start posting some frame grabs!

[Frank Martin]

is RED going to fabricate a lens support, nothing wrong with Zacuto but with a 10lb lens I would think RED must have taken this into account, also is there a threaded hole for a zoom stick?

[Matthew Verkler]

After getting a LOT of customer feedback, we have talked about this a LOT here at RED and we are going to make an exception to the RED backorder fulfillment policy. This is a one-time deal for the 18-85. Here is how it will work:

* We will fulfill in order of RED 18-85 reservation number that was given when early orders were taken. Your receipt from that day should have a reservation number looking like 18Z-000###.

* For all orders placed AFTER those reservation numbers ceased being assigned, the standard backorder policy will be in effect (ie, fulfilled in order of camera delivery date - one lens per camera).

* If you had a 18Z-000### reservation and switched that reservation to an 18-50 when we only had 18-50s available, we will honor your original 18-85 reservation number as your place in line.

* If you have a 18Z-000### 18-85 reservation number and have NOT taken delivery of your RED ONE, an 18-85 will NOT be allocated to you unless you take delivery of your RED ONE.

* If we notify you via email that your 18-85 is ready and you do not take delivery within 30 days, your 18-85 will be unallocated and go to the next person in line for allocation.

As most of you know, Brian Byrne is our BOMB SQUAD rep who handles backorders. He will be working with me and Kelly to get this allocation system set up with the above rules. Once it is set, Brian will start sending out emails. He is the person you will want to check with on backorder status. His email is brianb - at - red - dot - com .

Thanks for all the feedback that everyone provided. These changes are a direct reflection of us listening to and weighing your opinions.

BC

PS, I will post here when the RED PRO 18-85 is listed in the online RED store.

Thank you thank you thank you!

Full disclosure: I have reservation #354.

Thank you, everyone at Red, for reviewing your policy and modifying it in this case. I really believe it's the right thing to do, and actually honors your word from when the 18-85 reservations were originally taken. The time you spent discussing this internally is really appreciated.

Best Always,

Matthew Verkler

[Jeff Kilgroe]

so, here was my quick fix lens support solution - (thanks to Mitch at Abel) - it's a Zacuto Q-Mount Studio + 3.5" rod with a furniture felt pad on it - $260 ish - I really like it - snaps right onto the 19mm


Looks good. Is there a 3/8" or 1/4" threaded hole on the lens for a support?

How snug is your redrock mattebox?

[Walter R]

My res is from my original PDF deposit page, and does not have the 18z prefix.

Hi Paul,

I have a reservation for 2 lenses from January 2007 that are just 6 digits for each (000392 and 000393), but I also have one from the September 2006 with the 18z in front of six digits (18Z-000058). The forms are slightly different as well, so it just looks like they stopped putting the 18z in front of the serial number during the early 2007 reservation period.

Walter

[Pierce Cook]

Mark - I assume you would anyway, but will you post two screens of an object at 18mm and 85mm from the same distance?

Man that thing is beastly. I want one.

[Brent J. Craig]

Jim you're killing me. No i/data in the 18-85mm? You were so close to making the perfect lens, now I feel like we stopped just short of the finish line. Please, let's get back in the race and add i/data and cross that line together.

I completely agree. Red gives us the first camera that (presumably) can record lens metadata on a frame by frame basis and then leaves this functionality out of their professional series of lenses?

Is it a technology licensing issue? Can it be added for $1000 per lens?

Will there be a 'super Pro' series with the expected connections?

Has someone decided that people don't want or won't use lens data?

I guess like most people I'm shocked that the bargain-priced lens has the pins and the top of the line ones don't.

Can you shed some light on what led to this decision?

[Brent J. Craig]

That is good. I-pin data is for lazy VFX guys :) Use a paper and a pen and problem solved.

You must be quite a fast writer to copy down 3 pieces of information 120 times every second. Impressive.

[Brent J. Craig]

Can you tell me if there are any known issues with the new 18-85mm working with a traditional PL mount film camera, as well

So it covers Super35 4-perf without vignetting? (24.9mm x 18.7mm negative)

[Andrew M.]

Does anybody know if Curt's View Factor Motors controller can be hooked to the RED to record lens data setting?

http://www.reduser.net/forum/showthread.php?t=17625

http://www.reduser.net/forum/showpost.php?p=263348&postcount=134


It would resolve the lack of i/data option on this lense, problem.

[Mitch Gross]

Whats the CF on the lens, and how is the throw on the barrel ?
Also the pitch on the gearing looks a little different?

Trying to remember from this morning, I think it was 28" close focus (from image plane) and the barrel throw was quite long, perhaps 300 degrees (nice). The pitch of the gearing is cine standard .32" (.8 in metric measurement).

Don't recall seeing any threaded holes for a zoom stick. There isn't a mounting point on the lens for a support, which leads me to believe that RED is building a circular clamp type bracketry to support it. That's nothing particularly odd, but it apparently wasn't ready in time for Mark's lens so I set him up with the Zacuto universal device. Works fine for now.

[Mark L. Pederson]

Looks good. Is there a 3/8" or 1/4" threaded hole on the lens for a support?

How snug is your redrock mattebox?

There is NOT a threaded hole for support.

The Redrock will not, as is, fit over the end of the lens - however, it really only needs a wee bit of fine sanding and I bet it will slide over just fine -

I promise i will post a bunch of stuff asap - trust me - I'm DYING to start shooting with this baby - it feels fantastic - but when it rains it pours - we were supporting so many Red shoots at the same time today it's a miracle I'm posting at all!

[Matthew Verkler]

There is NOT a threaded hole for support.

The Redrock will not, as is, fit over the end of the lens - however, it really only needs a wee bit of fine sanding and I bet it will slide over just fine -

I promise i will post a bunch of stuff asap - trust me - I'm DYING to start shooting with this baby - it feels fantastic - but when it rains it pours - we were supporting so many Red shoots at the same time today it's a miracle I'm posting at all!

We'll take what we can get. I'm sure there are MANY who were wondering about the Redrock MB; sandpaper (and paint?) is cheap, so I feel much better now.

Your posts are definitely feeding the hunger for info, and we look forward to having our hunger for footage satisfied as well! Good luck with the downpour!

Best,

Matthew Verkler

[Ken Willinger]

I just want to say that Red is an amazing company.

[Jeff Kilgroe]

There is NOT a threaded hole for support.

Hmm... Any mount points at all for adding bracketry for motors, supports, etc?? I don't recall seeing any at NAB and I don't remember how they had it supported. Easy enough to rig something as you have, even something to strap or clamp to the lens as well. I guess I'm just surprised that there isn't an immediately available solution from RED for such a thing.


The Redrock will not, as is, fit over the end of the lens - however, it really only needs a wee bit of fine sanding and I bet it will slide over just fine -

Yep, that's what I figured in one of my above posts. Seeing as the bellows of the RRMB should only be 1mm smaller in diameter than the outside of the 18-85. Should just take a few minutes to make it work.


I promise i will post a bunch of stuff asap - trust me - I'm DYING to start shooting with this baby - it feels fantastic - but when it rains it pours - we were supporting so many Red shoots at the same time today it's a miracle I'm posting at all!

Can't wait to see what you can share. I'm anxious to know how this lens compares to the Cooke 18-100. I've been hungry for this lens since my hands-on with it at NAB (all of about 3 minutes of playtime there).

[Mark Pedersen]

I completely agree. Red gives us the first camera that (presumably) can record lens metadata on a frame by frame basis and then leaves this functionality out of their professional series of lenses?

Is it a technology licensing issue? Can it be added for $1000 per lens?

Will there be a 'super Pro' series with the expected connections?

Has someone decided that people don't want or won't use lens data?

I guess like most people I'm shocked that the bargain-priced lens has the pins and the top of the line ones don't.

Can you shed some light on what led to this decision?

Greg, I'm with you. I don't get Red's strategy with i/data support at all. It's touted as a feature on the camera, which god bless them is finally delivered, and then when the first pro lens is released... SURPRISE! No i/data. Why not? Why not support it on their own lenses so they can offer a complete, integrated solution? The strategy is expressed as..."You want i/data lenses? Go rent/buy Cooke." Oh.. but you can get it on our low end lenses... (which IMHO aren't aren't accurate enough for VFX work....)

Granted, i/data aside, this looks like an awesome lens. I was impressed with it at NAB. I still want one. But WHY would Red not include i/data support? I can't imagine it costs that much more to include... or to your point, at least offer it as an option.

It's been an uphill battle asking for Arri LDS data support on the body so I could use my LDS lenses... but I was at least expecting to use it on the Red pro series. That's quite a disappointment.

M

[Mike Seymour]

We gave you a perfect optical design, no ramping or breathing, calibrated T-stops and focus marks, in a professional built package for 1/5th what the other guys would sell this lens for.

If you need /i, call 1(800) COOKE.

Jim

Jim just take the comments as an indication how keen the community is for RED to continue with its i/tech friendly approach. And that it is a really big deal to those of us who do loads of post-production, mainly as we want a system where we do not interrupt the DOP over data and it is quietly automatically recorded. Love the lens but moving forward this technology matters to a sizable section of the community.
(Yes we are still happily buying one )

Thanks

mike

[gbalaji]

Yes, cameras are now shipping with upgraded audio board and i/pins. Existing camera owners can expect an email from me in the new few days with an overview of our upgrade program where we will put in the audio board and i/pins into every camera in the field - at no charge to the customer. This will fire up by the end of September.

BC

Any update on #2050 sent for service 4 weeks before. Is /I and audio board upgraded.

[Poi Boy]

Yes Glen, I'm sure Jim will be crying all the way to the bank ( because he can't make them fast enough! ). I wish this lens would have been available when I got my cameras; I better save more money.
Aloha
-A

[David Mutchler]

Jim I've been with you since the beginning. I could call 1800-COOKE, but I chose to support you/RED. You've done a lot for me and I thank you, but I'm not giving up on the i/data for the Pro lens because it's important. When I heard there was no i/data, I couldn't believe it. I haven't felt this disappointed since the time mom told me Santa Clause wasn't real.

[Laco Zamba]

Maybe we have to wait for Pro PREMIUM lenses with i/data :-)

RED cannot (?) produce more than 50 per month. I'm sure that they will sell it well even without i/data support.

[JanneJansson]

There was never, ever any plan to have i/pin support on the 18-85mm or the Primes...

The 18-85 internally however has changed quite a bit, the performance has been significantly improved, the foot marks are more accurate.. plus a few other cosmetic changes.


That is good. I-pin data is for lazy VFX guys :) Use a paper and a pen and problem solved. I rather have a sharp crisp and beautiful shoot from perfect optics, then electronic features.


Hardly, Try it on a Rack Focus. :whistling:


Lens data speeds up a VFX shoot, but it's not required (for me anyway). Without it just takes longer. Whenever I get a shoot with lens data, I just double check against it and do match move track anyway. But this is one of these panic issues, that gets talked about for ages, but when it gets time do the actual shoot, some 3D animator just eyeballs it anyway. :)

Cheers

[Corrado Silveri]

"Very" soon :)

European service.... Thanks!

[Mitch Gross]

Lens data is easy when converting a lens that already has encoders built in, say a stills lens that is designed to talk to the camera body. To implement it from scratch is a lot more work and could easily cost considerably more and make the housing that much bigger (compare the size of LDS Ultra Primes to non-LDS Ultra Primes). There are solutions to getting lens data from any lebs that entail motors attached to the zoom, focus and iris rings. Perhaps the View Factor unit will be able to do it but if not there are already other (more expensive) systems available. Fact is, lens data is something that a lot of people talk about but very few people actually use. Even in the F/X world.

The lens does not have mounting points for zoom motor or lens support, but it does have plenty of flat surface real estate for adding these items. This is a common way to do it -- all the Angenieux zooms have the motor bracketry added on and the older ones had the support mount added on as well. Same goes for Cooke. You might be unfamiliar with this because you've only ever seen them with the stuff mounted on, but take a look at the accessories Duclos Camera makes to see what does NOT come with the lenses. I've personally never seen an Optimo 12x without Paul's motor ring & carry handle, but they don't come that way from the factory.

[Roberto Lequeux]

Nice! I'd love to see brave steady ops muscle this bazooka.
Insane price! Can't wait to see just how spectacular it looks at 85mm

[Brent J. Craig]

Fact is, lens data is something that a lot of people talk about but very few people actually use. Even in the F/X world.

Only because there was no camera that fully supported it until now. I challenge you to find an Arri lens data box and a full set of LDS/iData primes anywhere in North America. I have tried.

[j99776655]

Lens data speeds up a VFX shoot, but it's not required (for me anyway). Without it just takes longer.

Oh, is that the only benefit? No big deal then, time isn't very valuable.

[Ivan G]

Oh, is that the only benefit? No big deal then, time isn't very valuable.

I love how this veteran Reduser doesn't want to come out so he makes a new user name to speak up.... :)

[A. Clint Litton]

this is with the RedRock MB - and yeah - about 1mm too tight - but snugs up just fine - I will have some surprise photos of some NEW accessories very soon - shooting footage this weekend -

Just curious to know if there's any trouble using the RR MB at the wide end of the 18-85mm? I saw only two filter stages on your mattebox...it'd be interesting to see if there's still a clear field of view at 18mm with a third filter stage added. Any thoughts, Mark?

BTW, congratulations. It's like you're the proud father of a healthy baby boy. I feel like I should send you a cigar.

Cheers

[Paul Hazlett]

so, here was my quick fix lens support solution - (thanks to Mitch at Abel) - it's a Zacuto Q-Mount Studio + 3.5" rod with a furniture felt pad on it - $260 ish - I really like it - snaps right onto the 19mm

much more to come - I just totally in the weeds here -

this is with the RedRock MB - and yeah - about 1mm too tight - but snugs up just fine - I will have some surprise photos of some NEW accessories very soon - shooting footage this weekend -

whats wrong with today? cmon you don't have to actually work for a living do you?

but really....no pressure....only got 4000 people waiting for you to post....done yet?

[Mark L. Pederson]

Just curious to know if there's any trouble using the RR MB at the wide end of the 18-85mm? I saw only two filter stages on your mattebox...it'd be interesting to see if there's still a clear field of view at 18mm with a third filter stage added. Any thoughts, Mark?

no dice on 25mm or wider on the RR.

I want a light weight clip on MB for this guy asap.

[Mark L. Pederson]

whats wrong with today? cmon you don't have to actually work for a living do you?


let's see ... yesterday we supported 7 different productions - all being shot on RED, including a pilot for Disney - in addition to technical support for 2nd unit aerial photography for KNOWING in Boston - I'm doing my best ...

[HD Bubaloo]

What a group of Ball busters in regards to the idata. Two years ago you were shooting 1080 and didn't even have the option.

Now you have a 4k camera with the ability to work with Cooke and the two RED zooms that actually have the encoders built in, and this isn't satisfactory?

Give Jim and the guys a break or start building your own.

Sounds very ungrateful.

[KETCH ROSSi]

Fantastic news, possibly I'll save some serious cash not having to buy the Arri/Zeiss 15-40, hehe. The 18-85 definitely will answer many, many needs, and it is truly a SEXY looking lens, absolutely gorgeus one in deed, also so trilled that Jim decided to leave the RED line arround the lens, as I recall at NAB I was asked by Big Jhon what my opinion was on that, and obviously I said, LOVE THE RED LINE, leave it on, PLEASE!!!


I don't think there ever was going to be any issues or relations with the CAnon "L" series glass, and it looks that much sexier.

Looking forward to some serious test results on the image quality Mark, but I'm sure they will rock.


ciao

[Matt Uhry]

it is truly a SEXY looking lens, absolutely gorgeus one in deed, also so trilled that Jim decided to leave the RED line arround the lens, as I recall at NAB I was asked by Big Jhon what my opinion was on that, and obviously I said, LOVE THE RED LINE, leave it on, PLEASE!!!


Ketch are you taking pictures of you camera or with your camera ?

Matt Uhry
www.mattuhry.com

[Mike Smith]

What a group of Ball busters in regards to the idata. Two years ago you were shooting 1080 and didn't even have the option.

Now you have a 4k camera with the ability to work with Cooke and the two RED zooms that actually have the encoders built in, and this isn't satisfactory?

Give Jim and the guys a break or start building your own.

Sounds very ungrateful.
With all due respect HD, that's not a very logical argument. A few years ago we didn't have 1080 either. What has that to do with i/data? This is something Red HAS provided us with. It's a really good feature that has helped attract people to the Red camera. It's cutting edge. I don't think anyone is being disrespectful or ungrateful here. But to only offer this relatively new-to-industry feature on their cheaper lenses is a puzzling decision. I for one would like to understand it, although I doubt an explanation is forthcoming.

One thing these forums are for is to let Red know what features we'd like to see on the Red, Red lenses and accessories. To express a desire for this feature and puzzlement in its omission on the more expensive Pro-series lenses is hardly ungrateful. Do you think Red would prefer we keep our thoughts to ourselves?

[JanneJansson]

Yeah, you're right. A Cooke S4 has such shitty optics. Hmmmm.

Yea, real pice of crap :) just kidding. I love cooke. I just think this lens is definitely worth the price and that RED have made a excellent functionality and design vs. price balance.


Oh, is that the only benefit? No big deal then, time isn't very valuable.

Hello j99776655 :)
Lens data is no big deal. If i have, cool I use it. If not, just track anyway maybe 5-10 min more time, not days or weeks.

Cheers

[Brent@RED]

Hi Paul,

I have a reservation for 2 lenses from January 2007 that are just 6 digits for each (000392 and 000393), but I also have one from the September 2006 with the 18z in front of six digits (18Z-000058). The forms are slightly different as well, so it just looks like they stopped putting the 18z in front of the serial number during the early 2007 reservation period.

Walter

Thanks, Paul and Walter, I do see that we did drop the 18Z- from later 18-85 lens reservations. I have amended my post to show that both formats will be honored.

http://www.reduser.net/forum/showthread.php?t=19505&page=14

Thanks, BC

[Brent@RED]

Oh, and one other quick thing so everyone is clear, the reservation number you had for your lens is your place in line. For example, if you are 18Z-000222, you are 222nd in line for the lens. It does NOT mean that you will get lens serial number 18Z-000222. In fact, the serial number scheme for the RED PRO 18-85 is a totally different format so it is not even a remote option to get that serial number :)

Thanks, BC

[HD Bubaloo]

I guess I am a commie.

I just think people expectations are not based on the realities or understanding of how things are manufactured and what circumstances behind closed doors there is to contend with.

You have to remember RED is a small company with big ambitions and are doing things a thousand times faster and better than anyone else. And at a much lower price point (which means some sacrificices, changes, etc) They are also not getting large margins on this stuff either. They aren't making Cooke money here. There is also licensing as well. Please just remember that. If you have never had anything manufactured for you before it might be hard to grasp why one lens has it and another one does not. There are reasons.

Now RED has heard the concern, I am sure (like everything else they do) they will listen and in the not so distant future, offer these options.

[Jeff Kilgroe]

I just think people expectations are not based on the realities or understanding of how things are manufactured and what circumstances behind closed doors there is to contend with.

Good post. Exactly what needed to be said. Lots of potential reasons why /i data ability is not incorporated in the new lenses. I'm as bummed about the lack of /i data as anyone else, but we need to cut the guys at RED some slack here. Who knows what adding /i would have done to us customers. It could have taken much longer, could have cost a lot more... Perhaps the licensing was not even an option. I'm just guessing, only RED can say why. But I have a hunch that their compact zooms won't be the last lenses from RED to have lens data functions.

We all have our own opinions of what is needed on a lens. The 18-85 not having /i support has changed my outlook. This news made my purchase of the 18-85 change from an absolute to a questionable maybe. But only because I already have a Cooke 18-100. If I didn't have that lens, I wouldn't think twice about buying the 18-85.

From what I've seen of the lenses so far (brief look at the NAB booth), they look amazing. Even with no /i support, I still fully intend to buy the upcoming RED primes, even the new 300mm Pro. Bring 'em on.

[Steve Freebairn]

Does anybody know if Curt's View Factor Motors controller can be hooked to the RED to record lens data setting?

http://www.reduser.net/forum/showthread.php?t=17625

http://www.reduser.net/forum/showpost.php?p=263348&postcount=134


It would resolve the lack of i/data option on this lense, problem.

Originally it could before even the first cameras shipped, but I don't know what has happened since.

[KETCH ROSSi]

Ketch are you taking pictures of you camera or with your camera ?

Matt Uhry
www.mattuhry.com

Not sure I understand the Q? MAtt.:)

ciao

[Adrian T.]

Any chance of using this baby with an Arri MB20II?

Is there also a metric version?

[Mike Smith]

I guess I am a commie.

I just think people expectations are not based on the realities or understanding of how things are manufactured and what circumstances behind closed doors there is to contend with.

You have to remember RED is a small company with big ambitions and are doing things a thousand times faster and better than anyone else. And at a much lower price point (which means some sacrificices, changes, etc) They are also not getting large margins on this stuff either. They aren't making Cooke money here. There is also licensing as well. Please just remember that. If you have never had anything manufactured for you before it might be hard to grasp why one lens has it and another one does not. There are reasons.

Now RED has heard the concern, I am sure (like everything else they do) they will listen and in the not so distant future, offer these options.
I absolutely agree with everything you say here (except for the commie bit. ;-)). From everything I've heard, the 18-85mm sounds like a cracking good lens - especially for the money. In fact I have one on order. I'm just puzzled about the direction Red has taken on i/data since they have it incorporated in the body but only some of their lenses. It's really not so much a criticism as to wondering why. Perhaps Mitch had it right in post #168 p 17:


Lens data is easy when converting a lens that already has encoders built in, say a stills lens that is designed to talk to the camera body...

Perhaps it's because the two cheaper lenses started life as still lenses.

[Paul Hazlett]

let's see ... yesterday we supported 7 different productions - all being shot on RED, including a pilot for Disney - in addition to technical support for 2nd unit aerial photography for KNOWING in Boston - I'm doing my best ...

c'mon you could have done that all before breakfast!!!!

kidding of course, just havin fun....

[Jarred Land]

Any chance of using this baby with an Arri MB20II?

Is there also a metric version?

yes and yes....

[Victoria C]

I have one on order, although I don't think I have a serial – too late to the game for that.

Any mattebox recommendations for this bad boy, other than the Arri MB20II? I have RRMB coming any day now, but would like to budget for the future.

[Brent J. Craig]

Give Jim and the guys a break or start building your own.

Sounds very ungrateful.


I don't think people are being ungrateful. They are asking legitimate questions and providing their feedback on a new product.

If you look back through these forums over the last couple of years, you will see that many of the great features on the Red One were suggested by people on Reduser. Many aspects were greatly improved based on our feedback, suggestions and griping.

I would hope that Red already knows how grateful we are for the work they do. The very existence of Reduser is proof that they value customer input and have thick skins when necessary.

If we didn't express our opinions and desires here, I think the Red revolution would be vastly different and far less interesting.

[Brent J. Craig]

Who knows what adding /i would have done to us customers. It could have taken much longer, could have cost a lot more... Perhaps the licensing was not even an option. I'm just guessing, only RED can say why.

Which is why we are asking Red why.

The reason I brought up licensing is because it was my understanding that the iData system was developed by Cooke to be an open-source, license-free alternative to Arri's LDS. If I am wrong I would like to know it.

[Roberto Lequeux]

OffHollywood, so just to make sure I understand, the RR MB shows up in the frame at 25mm and wider? That's a bummer.

[Adrian T.]

Any chance of using this baby with an Arri MB20II?

Is there also a metric version?

yes and yes....

Awesome! :biggrin:

[Russ Fill]

Oh, and one other quick thing so everyone is clear, the reservation number you had for your lens is your place in line. For example, if you are 18Z-000222, you are 222nd in line for the lens. It does NOT mean that you will get lens serial number 18Z-000222. In fact, the serial number scheme for the RED PRO 18-85 is a totally different format so it is not even a remote option to get that serial number :)

Thanks, BC

What if you ordered your lens with your camera pkg and don't have a serial that you know of for your lens??? As in my case.

[J. Eric Camp]

OffHollywood, so just to make sure I understand, the RR MB shows up in the frame at 25mm and wider? That's a bummer.

I believe he is saying, "with out modification" you can see it in the 25mm. I am away but my understanding is that once the lens sleeve on the Matte Box is widened to allow it to slip over the lens it will be a different story.

[Brent@RED]

What if you ordered your lens with your camera pkg and don't have a serial that you know of for your lens??? As in my case.

Safe to say if you ordered the 18-85 and got back a hand receipt with a RED signature on it, you have a reservation number for an 18-85. If you ordered after that time (online, for example), you would be fulfilled in order of camera delivery date.

BC

[Brent@RED]

http://www.red.com/store/tags/lenses

Thanks, BC

[Andrew Martin]

http://www.red.com/store/tags/lenses

Thanks, BC

Damn i might actually be able to afford that - better go talk my dad in to giving me £5k.


Andrew.

[Julian Banos]

Forget iData for 10K you get an 18-85mm lens!
I almost purchased an old 18-100mm Cooke zoom for 15K.

And for 20K we will be able to get a full set of Prime lenses, and somebody offered me a set of High Speeds for 25K.

So for me RED is saving me 10K and I can almost bet that the quality on both the zoom and the primes will be superior to the other lenses and brand new.

I may also add that renting this zoom at $200 to $300 per day is also a great deal.

I have to thank the RED team for making such great products and thank Jim for giving us the opportunity of both owning pro equipment at amazing prices and creating more business opportunities for us.

Cheers!

[Mitch Gross]

I have one on order, although I don't think I have a serial – too late to the game for that.

Any mattebox recommendations for this bad boy, other than the Arri MB20II? I have RRMB coming any day now, but would like to budget for the future.

I know of a couple of units that are in the works, but currently available are the Arri MB20II and the Vocas MB-450.

[Mike Jacks]

Placed my order! :-D

[Mark L. Pederson]

I believe he is saying, "with out modification" you can see it in the 25mm. I am away but my understanding is that once the lens sleeve on the Matte Box is widened to allow it to slip over the lens it will be a different story.
what he said -

I'll hit it with the fine grain sand paper over the weekend and we'll see where we end up -

[paolomerlini]

Jim, you're giving us a lot of good news lately.....
Keep going, mate
Cheers

Paolo

[Brent J. Craig]

Forget iData for 10K you get an 18-85mm lens!

Oh yeah, don't get me wrong. I had an Angenieux 17-80 in my hands today while I told a lens tech at a major rental house about Red's 10k wonder.

I don't want to seem ungrateful. A T2.9 18-85 for under $40,000 is a huge deal!

[Roberto Lequeux]

I believe he is saying, "with out modification" you can see it in the 25mm. I am away but my understanding is that once the lens sleeve on the Matte Box is widened to allow it to slip over the lens it will be a different story.

Aha, thanks, that makes absolute sense now.


what he said -

I'll hit it with the fine grain sand paper over the weekend and we'll see where we end up -

I took an other look at the pictures and it does look like you are practically there already... it looks very promising.

[Matthew Verkler]

Damn i might actually be able to afford that - better go talk my dad in to giving me £5k.


Andrew.

Please put in a good word with your dad for me. I've been a good boy!

[Evin Grant]

Two questions for the Red team...

1. Are there plans for a Red support system for this lens or are you expecting third party support (pun intended)?

2. Where is this lens made/assembled?

[Jannard]

Two questions for the Red team...

1. Are there plans for a Red support system for this lens or are you expecting third party support (pun intended)?

2. Where is this lens made/assembled?

It will never need service... :-)

Lens assembled in Japan.

Jim

[Evin Grant]

My bad...

I meant a lens/motor support bracket, of course the lens will never need to be serviced:biggrin:

[Kevin Wild]

Sorry to be ignorant about the world of lenses, but why so much excitement for an 18-85? Is this just a standard zoom length? I guess I'm wondering because I have the 18-50, an Angenioux 28-250 and the 300 prime. I thought I was covered...now I'm wondering...thoughts?

Kevin

[Evin Grant]

The reason is the build and design makes this the first "Cinema" quality lens to be available at an affordable price. Sharpness and speed are relatively easy, but accurate witness marks, long throw focus, very low breathing and ramping are revolutionary.

Bravo Red!

[Kevin Wild]

But why 18-85? Why didn't we get this on the 18-50?

I just don't see why this one is the one everyone is so excited about. Most of the things you said haven't been seen yet by many eyes, and yet the excitement for this lens is pretty high.

I'm not being weird...seriously wondering why it was this one that is more desired than others.

[Rick Darge]

Kevin, if you saw this baby at NAB last year, you would understand why. Like Evin said, it's not so much the picture, it's the build quality. I'm sorry to all the fans of the 18-50, but it's always felt cheapo to me. The 18-85 is the real deal. I personally will wait for the primes. I need that T2 action. Plus, I like how my mind operates when I use primes. I'm less lazy!

[Kevin Wild]

I see. I did see it at NAB...but RED had nothing to point the camera at. (A little strange.)

Thanks for the input. I'm pretty happy with my lens setup now...

[Jannard]

I see. I did see it at NAB...but RED had nothing to point the camera at. (A little strange.)

Thanks for the input. I'm pretty happy with my lens setup now...

The 18-50mm has a lot going for it. It is relatively inexpensive and VERY compact. It makes a very sharp image. It is a good enough lens to be used to shoot feature films. It is not in the same league from a mechanical build standpoint as a Cooke or a Zeiss lens. The 18-85mm is.

The 18-85mm is a fresh sheet of paper design and no excuse lens. I am quite sure if it were released by another company, it would sell for over $40K.

Jim

[Kevin Wild]

Thanks. I guess I'm just curious on how different the image is. While the build definitely matters to me, I care more about the image. I guess I'll wait for the reviews as these things ship...

[JanneJansson]

Hello RED people,

I'm one of these lucky guys that have been blessed with 17500 for a RED ONE, but sadly I ordered it only these summer, so I have a late serial number.

I been following this thread about your lens queue policies, and I feel a bit worried. I have pre-ordered the lens (and paid in full), but I guess I won't actually be in the lens queue until I have taken delivery of the camera. During the period from my pre-order to my camera delivery date, it can be many hundreds, to thousands of lens pre-orders and delaying the delivery of the lens by many months.

Please reconsider, and let the the lens queue be separate from the camera queue. I understand that this policies is for allowing enough of accessories to be available when the camera is going to be delivered, but this is one of these products many-many want to order, and if you have a limited production, lens pre-order date is going to be very valuable also :)

Cheers

[Roberto Lequeux]

Thanks. I guess I'm just curious on how different the image is. While the build definitely matters to me, I care more about the image. I guess I'll wait for the reviews as these things ship...

Don't forget usability... better marks and mechanics mean less out of focus shots and more perfect pulls on your best shots. Just my 0.00002 cents.

[Brent@RED]

Janne, I can certainly understand why everyone who orders an 18-85 wants it NOW (or at worst, SOON). But on backordered or very limited quality items, we have to fulfill in order of camera delivery date (with the 18-85 being an exception as we fulfill early purchasers based on reservation number then start fulfilling in order of camera delivery date). The main point is we do not want to send a limited quantity item to people without a RED ONE and, as a result, take one away from someone already with a camera.

And, aside from the exception of the early reservation holders for the 18-85 that were assigned a reservation number specifically for the 18-85, the 18-85 will fall under the standard backorder policy.

BC



Hello RED people,

I'm one of these lucky guys that have been blessed with 17500 for a RED ONE, but sadly I ordered it only these summer, so I have a late serial number.

I been following this thread about your lens queue policies, and I feel a bit worried. I have pre-ordered the lens (and paid in full), but I guess I won't actually be in the lens queue until I have taken delivery of the camera. During the period from my pre-order to my camera delivery date, it can be many hundreds, to thousands of lens pre-orders and delaying the delivery of the lens by many months.

Please reconsider, and let the the lens queue be separate from the camera queue. I understand that this policies is for allowing enough of accessories to be available when the camera is going to be delivered, but this is one of these products many-many want to order, and if you have a limited production, lens pre-order date is going to be very valuable also :)

Cheers

[Jose Poernomo]

so is this about right...

reservation number 1 - 50, October
51 - 100, November
101 - 150, December




José

[Andrae Palmer]

How many lens reservations exist so far? I feel so far down the line at RED ONE body # 1888.

[Paul Ryan]

A lot of information here.

Brent,
I realize that this is just out and that you might not have a clear picture as to how many reservation holders will actually take delivery of their zooms, etc., et. But how long should I have to wait if I reserve one now?

Thanks

[Gunleik Groven]

@ 50 i month, it's gonna be a long wait... :)

[Andrae Palmer]

@ 50 i month, it's gonna be a long wait... :)

At 50 a month... it will take us 4 years to get a lens. Lets hope that this ramps up real fast to about 200 a month (heck even that will take forever).

[Jarred Land]

we will do our best...

[J. Eric Camp]

Remember guys, Red is not sony. There is not a hugeish manufacturing infrastructure already in place just waiting for the designs. Be patient.

[C.H.Haskell]

I have no doubt that RED will ramp up in time as they have proven to do so in the past, do not get caught up on numbers and start making calculations based on them...

On the bright side this gives me some time to save up for the 18-85! ;)

Good work RED, start posting Mark...!

[JanneJansson]

..and I also did the 50/month math, and I figured I wound be 5 years away in lens delivery date.

I was not suggesting that a lens wound be delivered before a camera. I don't mind being bumped down in line, until my camera delivery date comes up. Then at least earlier pre-orders will have some advantage against later ones.

Thank you Brent and Jarred for replying, I know you do your best. I'm just advocating for my case. :biggrin:

Cheers

[Damien Molineaux]

For all those concerned about delivery dates, first I don't think everyone is going to be ordering one of these. Secondly if effectively orders are very high, I'm sure they will ramp up production, but let's get production on its way and see how the lens performs and make sur there are no quality issues before production is ramped up.

Now, to Red, about the metric version, are you producing both at the same time ? I certainly hope so, that we in metric land don't suffer from a delay because of that.

Cheers,
Damien

[Jannard]

For all those concerned about delivery dates, first I don't think everyone is going to be ordering one of these. Secondly if effectively orders are very high, I'm sure they will ramp up production, but let's get production on its way and see how the lens performs and make sur there are no quality issues before production is ramped up.

Now, to Red, about the metric version, are you producing both at the same time ? I certainly hope so, that we in metric land don't suffer from a delay because of that.

Cheers,
Damien

We are alternating Imperial and Metric in production...

Jim

[Damien Molineaux]

Great news !

Thank you for the update Jim. I'm looking forward to my 18-85

Cheers,
Damien



We are alternating Imperial and Metric in production...

Jim

[Joseph Ward]

Will this zoom lock on certain distance, focus, ect. lets say 50mm so someone can use for Stereoscopic? :nerd:

[Florian Stadler]

What's the minimum focus of the lens by the way?

[Clint Johnson]

If I remember correctly, the close focus was quoted as 28" from the focal plane. Seeing as how the lens is 11" long and the focal plane is about 2" behind the back of that lens... that would put it 15" from the front of the lens.

[Roberto Lequeux]

What's the minimum focus of the lens by the way?

Yes, what is it please?

[Jarred Land]

2 feet 4 inches.

[Roberto Lequeux]

Thanks for the quick draw Cheif.

[Stephen Williams]

2 feet 4 inches.

Hi,

Specs are quite close to Cookes, I wonder who designed them!

Stephen

[david farland]

don't start this again Steve....!

I recall asking Ted when he was at our ACS (Aust. Cinematographers Society) demo, who makes the lenses?
Ted: We have partners. If you know optics and you know lenses, these were made in the England. Grin…….
I understood that to mean Cooke.....silly me I know!

And yes the 18-50mm does say 'Made in UK' but is the 18-50 lens Cooke build quality.....what do you think??

D

[Stephen Williams]

don't start this again Steve....!

And yes the 18-50mm does say 'Made in UK' but is the 18-50 lens Cooke build quality.....what do you think??

D

Hi David,

I am not talking about who converted the 18-50 which is a rehoused Sigma stills lens. Jim states the 18-85 was made in Japan, I was guessing who the designer might be. It's a very different conversation about a totally different quality of lens.

Stephen

[Clint Johnson]

2 feet 4 inches.

So 2' 4"... pretty close to 28" then eh?:sarcasm:


If I remember correctly, the close focus was quoted as 28" from the focal plane. Seeing as how the lens is 11" long and the focal plane is about 2" behind the back of that lens... that would put it 15" from the front of the lens.

But was I correct about that being to the focal plane or is it the front element of the lens?

[Stephen Williams]

So 2' 4"... pretty close to 28" then eh?:sarcasm:



But was I correct about that being to the focal plane or is it the front element of the lens?

Hi,

2'4" is the same as the Cooke 20-100, measurements are always quoted from the film plane.

Stephen

[Jarred Land]

The 18-85mm was 100% designed by RED...

[Ivan G]

The 18-85mm was 100% designed by RED...

So is there a better chance of ramping production in the next few batches or months?

[Jannard]

Hi,

2'4" is the same as the Cooke 20-100, measurements are always quoted from the film plane.

Stephen

Cooke has zero involvement in this project.

Jim

[Jannard]

So is there a better chance of ramping production in the next few batches or months?

We are working on it.

Jim

[Tico Llaurador]

The 18-85mm was 100% designed by RED...

Simply REDmarkable... if RED can design a lens like that in-house, what can't they design?

Watch out, folks!