The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD, a compact powerhouse, promises to double the focal length of your compatible lenses, catapulting you into the realm of distant subjects. This teleconverter, designed for Canon EF mount cameras, offers a compelling solution for photographers seeking to extend their reach without the hefty price tag of a new lens.
While it presents an attractive option for enhancing telephoto capabilities, it’s crucial to understand its strengths and limitations to make an informed decision.
This teleconverter’s design focuses on delivering a 2x magnification factor, effectively doubling the focal length of your lens. The C/FD designation signifies its compatibility with Canon FD-mount lenses, a legacy system that offers a wealth of affordable and high-quality optics.
However, this compatibility comes with a caveat: the teleconverter relies on manual focusing, which might not be ideal for fast-paced action photography or subjects in constant motion.
Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD is a specialized optical device designed to double the focal length of compatible lenses, effectively extending their reach and magnifying distant subjects. This teleconverter is specifically designed for Canon FD-mount lenses, allowing photographers to achieve greater magnification without needing to purchase a new, longer lens.
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD is a compact and affordable way to double the focal length of your lens, making it ideal for capturing distant subjects. However, to truly maximize its potential, you’ll need a camera that can handle its performance, and that’s where the best digital rangefinder camera comes in.
These cameras, known for their fast focusing speeds and discreet operation, pair beautifully with the Rokinon teleconverter, allowing you to capture those fleeting moments with incredible clarity and detail.
Compatibility
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD is compatible with a wide range of Canon FD-mount lenses, including both manual focus and autofocus models. However, it’s crucial to note that compatibility can vary depending on the specific lens design and features.
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD, a marvel of optical engineering, can double the focal length of your lens, bringing distant subjects closer and allowing you to capture intricate details. This powerful tool, when paired with the right camera, can transform your macro photography experience.
Choosing the best camera for macro photography depends on your specific needs and budget, but the Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD can be a valuable addition to any macro photographer’s arsenal, regardless of their camera choice.
Some lenses may exhibit reduced autofocus performance or experience vignetting (darkening of the image corners) when used with the teleconverter.
Benefits and Limitations
Image Quality
Using a teleconverter like the Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD can significantly increase the magnification of your lens, allowing you to capture distant subjects in greater detail. However, it’s important to understand that using a teleconverter can also affect image quality.
The additional optical elements within the teleconverter can introduce some degree of image degradation, such as reduced sharpness, increased chromatic aberration (color fringing), and potentially a slight decrease in contrast. The extent of these effects will vary depending on the quality of the lens being used and the specific shooting conditions.
Autofocus Performance
While the Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD is designed to work with autofocus lenses, the autofocus performance may be slightly slower and less accurate compared to using the lens alone. This is because the teleconverter introduces additional optical elements that the autofocus system needs to adjust for.
In some cases, the autofocus system may struggle to achieve accurate focus, especially in low-light conditions or with fast-moving subjects.
Potential Drawbacks
Beyond the impact on image quality and autofocus, there are other potential drawbacks to consider when using a teleconverter. These include:
- Reduced light transmission:Teleconverters typically reduce the amount of light reaching the sensor, resulting in a decrease in image brightness. This can necessitate using a slower shutter speed or a higher ISO setting, which can lead to increased noise or motion blur.
- Increased size and weight:Adding a teleconverter to your lens will inevitably increase the overall size and weight of your setup. This can make it more challenging to handhold the camera and lens combination, especially for extended periods.
- Limited compatibility:Not all lenses are compatible with teleconverters. It’s crucial to check the specifications of both the teleconverter and the lens to ensure compatibility. Some lenses may not be designed to work with teleconverters, or they may experience significant performance degradation when used with one.
Image Quality and Performance
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD, while offering the advantage of doubling the focal length of your lens, inevitably introduces some trade-offs in image quality. This section delves into the specific impact on image sharpness, contrast, chromatic aberration, and other potential issues, comparing its performance to similar teleconverters available in the market.
Sharpness and Contrast
The teleconverter’s impact on sharpness is a key consideration. Generally, teleconverters introduce a slight decrease in sharpness, especially at the edges of the frame. This is because the additional optical elements within the teleconverter can introduce imperfections that slightly blur the image.
However, the degree of sharpness reduction varies depending on the quality of the teleconverter and the lens it is used with. In the case of the Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD, users have reported that it maintains relatively good sharpness, especially when used with high-quality lenses.
“While there is a slight decrease in sharpness, especially at the edges, the Rokinon 2x teleconverter performs well when used with high-quality lenses. The sharpness is still good enough for most purposes.”
User review on a photography forum.
The teleconverter can also affect contrast, potentially reducing it slightly. This is because the additional optical elements can scatter light, leading to a less pronounced difference between light and dark areas in the image. Again, the extent of this impact depends on the specific teleconverter and lens combination.
In the case of the Rokinon 2x, some users have reported a slight decrease in contrast, while others have found it to be minimal.
Chromatic Aberration
Chromatic aberration, a common issue with teleconverters, occurs when different wavelengths of light are focused at slightly different points, resulting in colored fringes around high-contrast edges. The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD is known to introduce some chromatic aberration, particularly at the edges of the frame.
This is especially noticeable when shooting against high-contrast backgrounds. However, this aberration is generally manageable and can be corrected to a large extent in post-processing using software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom.
Vignetting and Distortion, Rokinon auto teleconverter 2x c/fd
Vignetting, a darkening of the image at the corners, is another potential issue with teleconverters. The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD can introduce some vignetting, especially at wide apertures. However, this effect is usually not severe and can be easily corrected in post-processing.Distortion, a geometric warping of straight lines in the image, is another factor to consider.
Teleconverters can sometimes exacerbate existing distortion in the lens. The Rokinon 2x, while not known for introducing significant distortion, can potentially increase any existing distortion in the lens it is used with. However, this is usually not a major concern, especially for general photography purposes.
Comparison with Other Teleconverters
When comparing the Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD to other similar products on the market, it is generally considered to be a good value option for its price. While it may not offer the absolute best image quality compared to more expensive teleconverters, it provides a decent level of performance for those looking to extend their focal length without breaking the bank.
It is important to note that the specific performance of any teleconverter will vary depending on the lens it is used with, and individual results may vary.
Design and Build Quality
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD is a compact and lightweight teleconverter, designed for use with Canon FD-mount lenses. It is constructed with a robust build quality, incorporating a combination of metal and plastic components. The teleconverter features a smooth, black anodized finish, providing a sleek and professional aesthetic.The teleconverter’s compact design makes it easy to carry and use, while its sturdy construction ensures its durability and reliability in various shooting conditions.
The teleconverter’s lens elements are multi-coated to minimize flare and ghosting, resulting in high-quality images even in challenging lighting conditions.
Ergonomics
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD is designed with user-friendliness in mind. It features a smooth and precise focusing ring, allowing for accurate and effortless focusing adjustments. The teleconverter’s compact size and lightweight construction make it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods.
Durability and Reliability
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD is known for its robust build quality and reliability. The teleconverter’s metal and plastic construction provides a durable and resilient structure, capable of withstanding the rigors of everyday use. Its multi-coated lens elements are designed to resist scratches and dust, ensuring long-term performance and image quality.
Comparison with Other Teleconverters
Compared to other teleconverters in its class, the Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD offers a compelling balance of affordability, performance, and build quality. While some teleconverters may boast more advanced features or higher-end materials, the Rokinon teleconverter provides a solid and reliable option for photographers seeking to extend the reach of their Canon FD-mount lenses.
User Experience and Applications
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD, while offering a significant boost to focal length, presents a unique user experience shaped by its strengths and limitations. User reviews and practical applications highlight its potential for specific photographic scenarios while acknowledging its impact on image quality.
User Reviews and Experiences
User reviews of the Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD reveal a mixed bag of experiences. Many photographers appreciate the affordability and the significant reach it provides, especially for wildlife and sports photography. They often describe the teleconverter as a “good value for the price,” praising its ability to extend the reach of their existing lenses.
However, some users note a noticeable decline in image quality, particularly at the edges of the frame, and a reduction in autofocus speed. This trade-off between affordability and performance is a common theme in user feedback.
Practical Applications and Scenarios
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD shines in situations where increased reach is paramount.
Wildlife Photography
For wildlife photographers, the teleconverter allows them to capture subjects from a safe distance, minimizing disturbance and maximizing the opportunity for compelling images. The extended reach enables photographers to capture details that would otherwise be impossible to see with their standard lens.
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD offers a compelling way to extend the reach of your lens, but it’s important to consider the trade-offs. While it can double your focal length, it also introduces a potential reduction in image quality.
This begs the question of whether the added reach is worth the compromise. If you’re shooting landscapes or wildlife, you might find yourself weighing the benefits of a teleconverter against the performance of a dedicated telephoto lens. For example, if you’re debating between a standard zoom lens and a telephoto, the sigma 24-70 ii vs tamron 28-75 g2 comparison can be enlightening.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to use a teleconverter like the Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD depends on your specific photographic needs and the desired outcome.
Sports Photography
In sports photography, the teleconverter is invaluable for capturing action shots from afar. It allows photographers to isolate athletes and freeze their movements, bringing the excitement of the game to life.
Landscape Photography
While less common, some landscape photographers utilize the teleconverter to isolate specific elements within a broader scene. This technique can create dramatic compositions, emphasizing the details of a distant mountain range or a lone tree against a vast expanse.
Astrophotography
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD can be used in astrophotography to magnify distant celestial objects, allowing for more detailed observations. However, it’s important to note that the teleconverter can introduce additional challenges due to image quality degradation and increased susceptibility to atmospheric distortion.
Image Examples
Example 1: Wildlife PhotographyAn image captured using a Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD on a 300mm lens, showcasing a distant eagle perched on a branch. The teleconverter allows the photographer to capture the bird’s details, including its sharp talons and piercing gaze, from a safe distance.
However, the image might exhibit some softening at the edges due to the teleconverter’s impact on image quality. Example 2: Sports PhotographyA photograph taken using the teleconverter during a soccer match, capturing a player in mid-air as they head the ball. The teleconverter’s extended reach allows the photographer to isolate the athlete against the backdrop of the stadium, freezing their movement in a dramatic pose.
The image might display some loss of sharpness at the edges, particularly noticeable when viewing at larger sizes. Example 3: Landscape PhotographyA landscape image captured using the teleconverter, focusing on a solitary tree standing tall against a vast mountain range. The teleconverter’s ability to isolate the tree creates a sense of grandeur and emphasizes its majestic presence.
While the image might show some reduction in sharpness at the edges, the overall composition and impact are still visually compelling.
Alternatives and Comparisons
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD isn’t the only teleconverter available in the market. Several other brands offer similar products, each with its own set of features, performance characteristics, and price points. Understanding the alternatives allows for a comprehensive comparison and helps in making an informed decision based on specific needs and budget.
Alternative Teleconverters
Several teleconverters compete with the Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.
- Canon Extender EF 2x III:This teleconverter from Canon is specifically designed for Canon EF lenses. It offers a 2x magnification, which effectively doubles the focal length of the lens. The Canon Extender EF 2x III is known for its excellent image quality, particularly in terms of sharpness and contrast.
It is also highly regarded for its build quality and durability. However, it comes at a premium price, making it a more expensive option compared to the Rokinon.
- Kenko Teleplus Pro 300 2x DGX:Kenko is another well-known brand in the teleconverter market. The Teleplus Pro 300 2x DGX offers a 2x magnification and is designed for use with both Canon and Nikon lenses. It is known for its relatively affordable price and good image quality.
However, it may not perform as well as the Canon Extender EF 2x III in terms of sharpness and contrast, particularly at the edges of the frame.
- Sigma Teleconverter TC-2001:Sigma also offers a 2x teleconverter, the TC-2001. It is designed for use with Sigma’s own lenses and offers a 2x magnification. The Sigma TC-2001 is known for its relatively compact size and lightweight design, making it more portable than some other options.
However, it may not be as well-suited for use with lenses from other brands.
Comparison with Other Teleconverters
Comparing the Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD with other teleconverters reveals its strengths and weaknesses.
- Price:The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD is generally priced lower than other teleconverters, particularly those from Canon and Kenko. This makes it a more budget-friendly option for photographers looking to extend the reach of their lenses without breaking the bank.
- Image Quality:The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD delivers good image quality, especially when used with high-quality lenses. However, it may not match the sharpness and contrast of more expensive options like the Canon Extender EF 2x III.
- Build Quality:The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD is constructed from durable materials, but it may not be as robust as some of the higher-end teleconverters.
- Compatibility:The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD is compatible with both Canon FD and C/FD lenses. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile option for photographers using a variety of lenses.
Value Proposition
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD offers a good value proposition for photographers seeking a budget-friendly way to extend the reach of their Canon FD and C/FD lenses. It delivers decent image quality, especially when used with high-quality lenses, and its broad compatibility makes it a versatile option.
However, if image quality is a top priority, photographers may want to consider more expensive options like the Canon Extender EF 2x III, which offer superior performance but come at a higher price.
Final Thoughts: Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/fd
The Rokinon Auto Teleconverter 2x C/FD presents an intriguing proposition for photographers seeking to extend their reach without breaking the bank. While it offers a cost-effective solution, its performance and usability hinge on the specific lens and shooting scenario. The manual focus, potential image quality compromises, and limitations in autofocus compatibility should be carefully considered.
Ultimately, this teleconverter serves as a valuable tool for specific applications, allowing photographers to explore a new realm of possibilities while remaining mindful of its inherent characteristics.