Thanks to pictures posted by Yann Besset on the RED KOMODO Users FB group, we can now explore the new EF-EOS R 0.71x which is Canon C70’s secret weapon, on the Super 35 RED Komodo. And yes, it works, by allowing the Komodo a FOV of a full-frame cinema camera. Read on.

The EF-EOS R 0.71x

This new Canon’s powerful adapter extends the angle of view and optical sensitivity, while seamlessly integrating with the C70 optical corrections. The adaptor was designed specifically for the C70, by connecting to the camera’s RF mount with additional support from two flanges that securely attach via four screws that enhance the robustness of the physical connection. Once mounted, the adapter maintains a similar full-frame angle of view on the Super 35mm sensor, while boosting the speed of the attached lens by an average of 1-stop. That means, making a full-frame lens 0.71x wider so that after the crop factor of the camera the focal length is close to what it would be on a full-frame camera. For example, a 24mm lens on a Super 35mm camera is usually 36mm. If you have a 24mm EF lens you would follow this formula: 24 x 0.71 = 17 x 1.5 = 25.56. So now the 24mm lens is almost the same focal length as it would be on a full-frame camera.

Canon C70’s secret weapon

According to Canon, the EF-EOS R 0.71x is dedicated only to the C70. As explained, the adapter has built-in screws to mount directly to C70. The screw-in holders are removable and are just there to secure the adapter when used on the C70.  Canon says that the EF-EOS R 0.71x lens mount adapter is robust and weather-sealed, but again, only when mounted to the C70. This adapter was announced together with EOS C70. To learn more, read our article regarding this product. Note that the adapter is giving you more FOV (Field of View) and a bit more light. It doesn’t have any factors regarding compression and DOF (Depth of Field).

RED Komodo compatibility

RED Komodo users can use Metabones speed-boosters (RF>PL and RF>EF) to expand the image circle from full-frame 35mm lenses or larger format on the Super 35mm+ Komodo sensor with the added benefit of 1 stop faster. However, the big question was (and still is), if the new 0.71X adapter can be utilized by the Komodo. First, according to RED Support, this new adapter is not included in the list of KOMODO Compatible Lens Mount Adapters. Read the list here. However, thanks to Yann Besset from the RED KOMODO Users FB group, we can now see this adapter attached to the Komodo, plus sample footage. According to Yann, you are getting a FOV wider than Canon’s 1DX Mark II full-frame camera. That means, the Canon 0.71X can transform the RED Komodo into a full-frame beast (regarding FOV only). Nevertheless, you can’t use those screws in order to secure the adapter to the camera, which means you’ll have to improvise lens support.

Summary

Although this is good news for RED Komodo shooters, it’ll be safer to wait till a dedicated RED Approved mount support is developed. As explained, the EF-EOS R 0.71x was designed for the C70. Although it can be utilized by the Komodo (and others), it can be a bit risky using it without a proper added attachment that replaces the support of the four screws. Maybe Wooden Camera will pick up the slack and design a solution for this.