Simmod Lens LPL Essence Rear Magnetic Filter System Introduced

Lens Filters

by Jeff LochOctober 3^rd, 2023

Simmod Lens recently introduced an interesting magnetic rear filter system compatible with the company’s LPL mount conversion kits: the Essence filters. Simmod Lens currently has two types of filters available, including ARIA Glisten and ARIA Black Mist filters, all available in various strengths, but the Essence system should also be compatible with ARRI LPL mount filters. So, let’s look closer at these rear magnetic filters and systems!

Canadian manufacturer Simmod Lens is well-known for its cine-modding kits, which allow you to turn photography lenses into more usable “cinema-style” lenses. A couple of months ago, the company released multiple LPL conversion kits for Canon FD/NFD, Contax Zeiss, Leica R, Mamiya 645, Nikon F, and Olympus Zuiko OM lenses.

The LPL mount was introduced by ARRI in 2018 along with the Alexa Mini. The LPL mount was designed for large-format cinema cameras as a successor to the traditional PL mount. One of the main benefits of the LPL mount is that it allows you to attach a magnetic rear filter directly to the lens mount. Currently, magnetic filtering options for the LPL mount are quite limited. Indeed, you only have the choice between ARRI Impression V and, more recently, the entire lineup of Tiffen diffusion filters.

However, if you invested in a Simmod LPL conversion kit, you can now add the Essence Rear Magnetic Filter system via a Magnetic Pilot ring.

Simmod Lens LPL Essence Rear Magnetic Filter system – features

At the base of the Simmod Lens LPL Essence Rear Magnetic Filter system is one pilot guide ring called the Magnetic Pilot. This ring screws on the back of Simmod Lens’ LPL conversion kit and features twelve strong magnets. Please note that the company also offers a “traditional” adapter ring, which allows you to screw 55mm diameter filters to the back of your lens.

Once the Magnetic Pilot ring is attached to the back of your lens, you’ll be able to mount magnetic rear filters, including rear magnetic filters from ARRI and Tiffen, as well as the new Simmod Lens LPL Essence filters.

Simmod Lens released two series of rear magnetic filters: the ARIA Black Mist and the ARIA Glisten. The ARIA Black Mist filters are available in 1/8, 1/4, and 1/2 strengths. The ARIA Glisten filters are available in 1/8, 1/4, 1/2 and 1 strengths. According to the company, a clear filter and a range of ARIA Pearl filters should be available soon.

Simmod Lens claims that all filters feature a “Nano resistance coating to repel water, oil, and grease.” Also, Simmod Lens LPL Essence filters are compatible with ARRI Signature primes.

Pricing and availability

The Simmod Lens LPL Essence Rear Magnetic Filter system is available now. The Magnetic Pilot ring retails for $25, while each Essence filter costs $149.

For more information, please visit Simmod Lens’ website here.

What do you think about this rear magnetic filter system? Do you prefer using front or back filters? Have you already converted some of your lenses to LPL mount? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!