SIRUI Astra: World’s first T1.8 full-frame autofocus anamorphic lenses

Transcontinenta Group, distributor of SIRUI for the UK and Ireland, announces the revolutionary new SIRUI Astra Series of anamorphic autofocus lenses.

The SIRUI Astra Series, which offers a 50,75, and 100mm lens, is the world's first lens lineup to combine a constant T1.8 aperture, full-frame coverage, and autofocus in a 1.33x anamorphic design. This sets a new benchmark for accessible cinematic production.

Democratising the cinematic anamorphic look

The launch of the SIRUI Astra Series is a significant milestone for independent filmmakers, solo operators and small production crews. Historically, the coveted anamorphic aesthetic, characterized by its widescreen aspect ratio and distinctive visual flair, has been limited by high costs, significant weight and the operational complexity of manual focus pulling. The Astra Series addresses these issues head on by integrating a fast, precise autofocus system that removes the need for a focus puller. Furthermore, at approximately 600–700 g per lens, the series shatters the weight barrier of traditional anamorphic glass, which often exceeds 1,500–2,000 g. This enables a new generation of creators to achieve a premium cinematic look without requiring large crews or budgets. These advancements in usability are matched by the series' impressive optical performance.

Uncompromising performance in a compact design

At the heart of the Astra Series lies a remarkable balance of performance and practicality. The fast, constant T1.8 aperture across the entire lens range offers outstanding low-light performance and allows cinematographers to achieve a beautifully shallow depth of field, effectively separating subjects from their backgrounds. Despite this bright aperture, SIRUI has designed the lenses to be remarkably compact and lightweight. Each lens weighs approximately 620–720 g, depending on the focal length and mount. The 50 mm, 75 mm and 100 mm focal lengths have nearly identical physical dimensions and weight, which is crucial for fast-paced production workflows using gimbals or other stabilisers. This meticulous design consistency is complemented by a host of unique features that further enhance the professional credentials of the Astra Series.

Unique features

• Groundbreaking full-frame autofocus: This feature supports solo-operator efficiency with a fast and precise autofocus system and a seamless AF/MF switch. 

• Fast T1.8 Constant Aperture: Maintains a bright, constant T1.8 maximum aperture across all focal lengths, excellent in low-light and for a creative bokeh.

• Classic 1.33x Anamorphic Character: The 1.33x squeeze factor produces the signature 2.35:1 widescreen cinematic aspect ratio when desqueezed, along with the distinctive oval bokeh and horizontal lens flares that define the anamorphic look.

• Consistent set-optimised design: All lenses in the series feature a unified 67 mm filter thread, a similar weight and physical dimensions, making lens changes, filter use and rebalancing on gimbals easier.

• Dual Flare Options for Creative Choice: Cinematographers can choose between two distinct flare styles: the classic blue streak or a more subtle, versatile neutral light streak, to suit different narrative aesthetics.

• Broad mirrorless system compatibility: The Astra Series is available for Sony E-mount, Nikon Z-mount and L-mount cameras.

Availability and prices

The SIRUI Astra AF 50mm T1.8, 75mm T1.8 and 100mm T1.8 lenses will be available from SIRUI retailers in the UK and Ireland at a recommended retail price of £879.99 / €999.99 per lens, or £2639.99 / €2999.99 for the three-lens set, which includes a safety case. The Astra Series is available for Sony E, Nikon Z and L-mount systems.