Products & Camera Tech
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January 21, 2026

REDUXA R2: Why We Built Two Models

REDUXA R2: Why We Built Two Models

Since our last update on REDUXA R2, we’ve been deep in testing, and responding to one recurring theme: lens compatibility.

In this update, we want to walk you through some significant changes to the project - including interchangeable mounts, a new calibration system, and the decision to build the most compatible focal reducer ever made, featuring up to 24mm of rear clearance on PL lenses (and working towards 25mm).

But to explain how we got there, we first need to explain why the product evolved.


Why REDUXA Is Now Two Products

After the release of our first development update on YouTube, we received a lot of questions around lens fitment, rear optic protrusion, and coverage across different formats. That feedback forced us to take a hard look at the design we had already built

By moving the optic further back in our design, we can physically accommodate more lenses - but doing so introduces compromises:

  • Softer edges and corners
  • Changes to the focal reduction factor
  • Increased vignetting in wide formats

So rather than do this and ship one “middle-ground” focal reducer, we decided to split REDUXA into two purpose-built models, each optimised for a different shooting priority:

  • REDUXA R2
  • REDUXA R2F
REDUXA R2: Why We Built Two Models
REDUXA R2: Why We Built Two Models
REDUXA R2: Why We Built Two Models

REDUXA R2 — Image Quality First

REDUXA R2 is designed for filmmakers who want the cleanest possible full-frame to Super35 conversion, particularly in wide-format shooting.

It’s optimised for:

  • Clean edges and corners
  • Consistent optical performance
  • Super35 formats such as 16:9 / 2:1 / 21:9

Focal Shift Calibration

REDUXA R2 features our focal shift calibration, allowing precise tuning of the optic position to your specific lens.

A built-in dial indicates the calibrated neutral position. Leave it there, and REDUXA behaves like any traditional speed booster on the market & honestly most users will never need to touch it.

However, for filmmakers who want to extract maximum performance from specific lenses, focal shift allows you to note and quickly dial in the optimal position for each lens. We’ll be covering this feature in much more detail in a dedicated video soon.

Rear Clearance

To maintain optical performance, the standard model has more conservative rear clearance:

  • 9mm on EF
  • 17mm on PL

For context, the Nodal 1 focal reducer was marketed as being “designed for clearance” and reached 19mm. Even in its image-quality-first configuration, REDUXA R2 remains highly compatible.

In practical terms:

  • Around 95% of EF lenses require only 5 - 6mm
  • All official Canon EF lenses fit without issue
  • Most converted EF and PL lenses are fully compatible
REDUXA R2: Why We Built Two Models
REDUXA R2: Why We Built Two Models
REDUXA R2: Why We Built Two Models

REDUXA R2F — Maximum Compatibility

REDUXA R2F exists for one reason: extreme rear-element clearance.

This model offers up to 24mm (and working towards 25mm) of rear clearance on PL lenses. That’s the highest clearance ever achieved on a PL-mount focal reducer, enabling lens combinations that simply haven’t been possible before. At present, DSMC2 is the only camera system capable of supporting this.

What It’s Optimised For

The R2F performs best when shooting full-frame or Super35 anamorphic in 6:5 or 4:3, where only the central image circle is used, and when running lens sets with deep rear protrusions.

It also supports Super35 spherical lenses without limitation, and full-frame spherical lenses in wide formats - with the understanding that a small crop may be needed to clean up softer or darker edges.

If you’re using lenses with rear elements extending up to 24mm, the R2F ensures full compatibility across the entire set.

Trade-offs

To achieve this level of clearance, we had to remove:

  • Focal shift calibration
  • Electronic communication

There simply isn’t enough physical space to include everything. That said, the optic is shipped perfectly calibrated - just like every other focal reducer currently on the market.


EF and PL Mount Options

Here’s how mounts work across the two models:

  • REDUXA R2 ships with EF as standard
    • Optional PL mount attaches over the EF mount (installation takes a few minutes)
    • Full guides and support provided

  • REDUXA R2F ships in PL only, with the mount pre-installed

The PL mount itself is the same part across both models, meaning you can share a single PL mount between both adapters. Or purchase a second PL mount to keep both units ready to go.