The DIGI SUPER 22 xs is a totally new innovation in HDTV studio lens design - one that introduces an important new choice of studio system configuration.
This XJ22x7.3BIE-D lens embodies a novel new design that anticipates the rapidly growing popularity of portable cameras being deployed for mainstream studio application. It is intended for broadcasters and producers having as their foremost priority a high-performance but cost-effective and compact HDTV studio lens-camera package that can be supported on a modest size pedestal or sturdy tripod system. This low-weight combination is also ideal for robotic system applications.
The XJ22x7.3BIE-D utilized new computer-aided optical and mechanical design techniques to produce a compact bona fide studio lens that directly couples to a portable production camera without the necessity of the traditional support "sled" apparatus.
ABOUT THIS LENS
The XJ22x7.3BIE-D is a high-end optical system squarely based upon classic studio lens design principles but carefully constrained to a physical size and weight commensurate with that of contemporary portable production cameras (that typically weigh in at about 15lbs). The more severe physical constraints of portable EFP/ENG design did not apply to this lens. Instead, a wide 105mm input optical port and novel new optical design has produced a high sensitivity, high contrast, and optimized uniformity of brightness across the image plane that is truly impressive for such a compact lens. Weighing in at 13.4 lbs (about twice that of a HD portable lens) the lens is still only a quarter the weight of a typical HD studio box lens.
The coordinated optimization of the MTF profile, contrast, and relative light illumination followed high-end studio design guidelines that ensure high picture sharpness over the image plane. Contrast was extended by superb control of black reproduction - with optical and mechanical design innovations that substantially reduced flare, veiling glare, and any internal reflections. Similar attention to minimization of ghost images and other highlight-related chromatic distortions caused by strong light sources on-axis and off-axis further extend the operational contrast range of the lens.
Finally, the important requirement of low geometric distortion at wide-angle settings constituted another central design imperative and an exemplary performance in this area has been achieved by Canon's advanced three-group internal focusing system (which also minimizes alterations of chromatic aberrations during the focusing action).