NiSi ATHENA adapters add a rear drop-in filter slot to PL lenses

NiSi's new Drop-In Filter PL Mount Adapters add a drop-in filter slot between PL lenses and Sony E, Canon RF, or Nikon Z cameras. Preorders are open from at $269.

The new NiSi ATHENA Drop-In Filter PL Mount Adapters put a filter slot between your PL lens and the camera, so one set of ATHENA drop-in filters covers most PL lenses you mount.

The adapters are available as a standalone for Sony E (PL-E), Canon RF (PL-RF), and Nikon Z (PL-Z), with a Clear drop-in filter, or as a Filmmaker Kit with True Color VND 1-5 Stop and Black Mist 1/8 drop-ins plus a filter bag.

They work with every ATHENA drop-in filter, with the range currently covering True Color VND, True Color CPL, Black Mist, Allure Streak, and FS ND.

Adapter details

The adapters are made of 304 stainless steel front and rear mounts, with a sealing ring at the camera mount to ensure a weatherproof seal on the camera side. The VND and CPL drop-ins carry a 0.8 MOD gear for a wireless lens motor (sold separately).

All three adapters support infinite focusing with the filter installed, giving users the freedom to fine-tune their compositions. NiSi also says that the trio use an advanced inside flocking technique, eliminating distracting reflections and enhancing the clarity of shots.

They are obviously compatible with the PL-mount ATHENA PRIME lineup, as well as what the company says is “most” PL lenses with up to 25.8 mm (1.02 in) rear protrusion. The drop-in filter does not obstruct rear-element movement during focusing, so focus pulls stay smooth.

Weight varies slightly across the three. The PL-E weighs 195 g (6.9 oz) without a filter, the PL-RF 207 g (7.3 oz), and the range tops out with the PL-Z at 229 g (8.1 oz), so there is a small amount to allow for when using a gimbal or going handheld.

NiSi offers a note on cage and rig clearance that may be worth paying attention to.

"The drop-in filter sits close to the camera body. On some rigs, a camera cage, top plate or other attachment around the mount can get in the way of the filter slot and restrict inserting or removing filters. Some cages and positive-lock mounting systems may also prevent the adapter from being fitted while a filter is installed. In many cases this is easily solved: remove the filter, mount the adapter, then slide the filter back in. We recommend checking the clearance around your camera mount before building your rig."

Pricing and availability

NiSi lists production as currently in progress with no shipping date yet confirmed. Preorders are open with the adapters themselves costing $269 and the Filmmaker Kit $399.