This question is for everybody, but can probably be answered by Chris in 2 seconds....

I came across this website: http://xl1solutions.com/ADAPTERS.htm and they advertise if I use this adapter then it will multiply the focus length by only 2x. Other straight adapters (like these: http://www.letus35.com/XL.html) say the focus length is multiplied by 7x or more.

So what's up? 2x is not bad at all. I heard the custom-made adapters used on the XL1's from "28 Days Later" were only 2x as well. This seems very doable?

But is it true?

I'm just trying to get that narrow DOF we all strive for, and weighing my options, that's all.

- ShannonRawls.com

Hi Shannon. I'm no expert, but it looks like they're talking about the 16mm lenses when they say 2x. Haven't done the math yet, but I'd guess that the frame of 16mm film is roughly twice the size of the 1/3" ccd, so only half of the lens' image is thrown away. I don't see how a 35mm lens could be also be 2x since they were designed for a much larger image plane. I think that's a convenient omission on the website.

I wonder how well older 16mm lenses would hold up against modern video lenses. Time to check out ebay...

EDIT: I just did the math:0.3333 inch = 8.46582 millimeter

EDIT II: found this on eBay:Zeiss ARRIFLEX Arri 16mm 9.5mm PL mount 1.3 mint lens

That should be 19mm on the Canon, would love to see someone try this baby on and post the results...

This topic has been heavily discussed in our XL1 / XL1S Optics & Lens Options forum. Try searching there.