Chinese equipment manufacturer Benro has announced what it claims is the first detachable multi-functional filter mount adapter system, the Benro Aureole. At launch, the device will be available in two variants. The two models will adapt Canon EF lenses to work with either Canon RF-mount or Sony E-mount cameras. Benro has said that other options will be available in the future.
Rear-mounted filters
With the Benro Aureole, you drop your filters into the unit itself. This means that the filters are between the lens and the camera rather than at the front of the lens. You can insert the filters from the top and the side of the unit depending on your needs. There are also caps provided to prevent dust and stray light from entering when you’re not using a filter.
Polarizing and ND filters
Benro’s Aureole system has a removable filter holder with which you can insert both square and circular filters. Benro’s website references circular polarizing, neutral density and graduated neutral density filters. The circular polarizing filter has gear teeth around the outside. This allows you to rotate it with the wheels on the top of the filter holder. The graduated ND filter also has teeth on one side, so it can be raised or lowered in the mount to position where you need it.
Lightweight
The Benro Aureole comes with a universal base that can be mounted on a tripod head compatible with an Arca mount plate. There is also a standard 1/4-inch thread so you can attach any tripod plate. The unit only weighs around 4.5 ounces, so it won’t add much weight to your camera rig. Size-wise, the Aureole measures 3.5 by 2.8 inches and is a little over 1.5 inches deep.
Pricing and availability
You can preorder the Benro Aureole from the product’s webpage at an exclusive launch day price of $180. The regular price will be $249. As yet, Benro hasn’t announced a launch date.
