Samyang Optics has introduced the prices of its “High-End” full-frame lenses: The XEEN Anamorphic 2X, and Meister Titanium Primes. As we hoped for an affordable price tag, we were (VERY) wrong. The Anamorphic glass costs $20,000 USD (!!) and the Meister $8,500. That’s a very high price tag, especially for a company that is known for its affordable cine-glass. Also, sample footage was published. Would You Buy?

Samyang’s first “High-End” full-frame cinema lenses

6 months ago, Samyang Optics announced its new Premium and professional XEEN lens line-up: XEEN Anamorphic X2 (50mm T2.3) and XEEN Meister (35mm T1.3, 50mm T1.3, and 85mm T1.3). The first XEEN lineup was released in 2015 and has been one of the first affordable cinema lenses. Fast forward 6 years, after “In-depth research and communication with customers”, Samyang launched the new premium XEEN lens series. This includes the XEEN Anamorphic 50mm T2.3 X2 (which is the first anamorphic glass by Samyang), and XEEN Meister 35mm T1.3, 50mm T1.3, and 85mm T1.3 models. Samyang claims that these new premium XEEN lenses which cover full-frame sensors were developed for high-end digital cinematography.

A ‘High-End’ price tag as well

The prices of the lenses were spotted by NewsShooter, which was surprised by the steep price tag. If we have been expecting affordable pricing, then we were completely wrong. The price of the Meister Titanium Primes is $8,500 (similar to the Tokina Vista and the Canon Sumire prime lenses). As for the XEEN Anamorphic 2X, it costs $20,000 USD(!). Yes, it cost like Cooke. However, does it deliver the ‘Cooke Look’ as well?

Sample footage released

Now it’s your turn to judge. Samyang has published sample footage of the XEEN Anamorphic 2X and Meister Titanium Primes. Explore it below:

Closing thoughts

By announcing those prices, Samyang has declared (not officially) that it targets professional cinematographers. It seems that the company is eager to compete against other companies whose specialty is making high-end cinema glass, thus being unleashed from the impression of a maker of affordable cinema solutions. That’s completely OK and welcomed. Nevertheless, Samyang will face tough competition for sure. Have you watched the sample footage? Let’s know your thoughts about those XEEN cine-lenses.