Discover the New SIRUI Astra Series – Game-Changing Full-Frame Autofocus Anamorphic
When you’re a content creator on the move, a small production crew shooting fast, a gimbal operator chasing light or a creator who wants cinematic flare without the bulky rig—this lens was built for you.
Introducing the SIRUI Astra 1.33× Full-Frame Autofocus Anamorphic Cine Lens, now live on Kickstarter.
Why this lens matters: what sets it apart
Autofocus + Full Frame + Anamorphic – a rare combination.
- The Astra series delivers full-frame coverage (not just Super35) with a 1.33× squeeze, enabling that epic widescreen cinematic look (2.35:1 when shooting 16 : 9).
- It features autofocus capability in an anamorphic prime lens (with T1.8 aperture) — a huge workflow boost for run-and-gun, gimbal and solo creators.
- Light weight: each lens in the Astra lineup weighs around 600-700g depending on mount (the 50mm variant is 620g for E-mount) which is dramatically lighter than traditional full-frame anamorphic lenses.
- Unified and practical: the filters are standard (67mm thread) and the housing is optimized for cine use (gear rings etc).
So if you’ve been frustrated by heavy manual cine lenses or limited to Super35 with autofocus, the Astra opens a new possibility.
Key Features at a glance
- 1.33× squeeze factor – gives that cinematic field of view with minimal cropping, perfect for 16 : 9 workflows.
- Constant aperture T1.8 across the set of 50mm / 75mm / 100mm (in this first launch) making it viable in low-light and for shallow depth-of-field.
- Full-frame format: Enables you to use large sensors (mirrorless full-frame bodies) and still get that anamorphic signature without horizontal crop or sensor limitation.
- Lightweight and compact design: e.g., length ~131mm, weight ~620g for the 50mm version (E-mount) per spec sheet.
- Autofocus functionality: Unlike many anamorphic lenses that are manual only, the Astra lineup adds modern workflow support for solo shooters and hybrid creators.
- Neutral-colour filter / adaptation: Enables a “neutral filter” that can adapt colour to your light source (you mentioned this as a key feature you wanted to emphasise) — this helps the lens integrate into your colour workflow without forcing heavy grade or correction.
- Geared for creators: The size, weight and autofocus make this very suitable for gimbal, drone, handheld, run-and-gun content creation, smaller production crews, travel shoots and hybrid documentary-style work.
Who should care – target audiences
Content creators (YouTube, Instagram, travel, vlog)
If you shoot on gimbals, mirrorless bodies, fly drones, or move quickly between locations, the lightweight full-frame anamorphic with autofocus means you get the cinematic look without compromising agility.
Small production crews & hybrid shooters
You may have limited time, budget and people. A lens that covers full frame, offers autofocus for speed, and still gives you the anamorphic sheen is a huge benefit.
Narrative filmmakers & commercial production
Even though size and weight are reduced, the look holds up for creative narrative, branded content and short form commercial work: the 1.33× squeeze gives that widescreen cinematic flavour (2.35:1 approx) with less post-work.
Gimbal / stabilizer / handheld operators
Heavy cine glass can kill your stabilizer battery, impede smooth movement and limit flexibility. At ~620g-700g this lens is much more gimbal-friendly, letting you get the look without the burden.
Comparisons / Why this is a “game changer”
There have been very limited options before that combine full-frame, anamorphic squeeze, autofocus and lightweight form. Many existing anamorphic lenses are heavy, manual-focus only, designed for large rigs. The Astra changes that.
- Traditional full-frame anamorphic primes → heavy (often 1.5kg-plus), manual focus, large form factor.
- Some autofocus anamorphic lenses exist, but fewer that cover full frame and come in compact form.
- With Astra you’re seeing a blend: modern workflow (AF), full frame, anamorphic look, accessible size/weight → meaning more creators can adopt cinematic style rather than just top tier crews.
In short, it brings anamorphic into a new creator tier, rather than only high-budget cinema rigs.
Kickstart Campaign: Why backing it now matters
Since you’re launching via Kickstarter, this is also a great section to drive urgency and value. Points you can include:
- By backing now you get the lens at special price/pre-order terms (mention your campaign details).
- Early-bird offers, bundle deals, mount options.
- Be part of the first wave: you’re one of the pioneers bringing full-frame autofocus anamorphic to mass-accessible workflow.
- Limited quantity / launch discounts / maybe special colour/flare options for backers.
- If you’re a creator looking to differentiate your work this is your gear upgrade moment.