Isco Widescreen 2000 MC

• Anamorphic Adapter by Isco Precision Optics GmbH
• Fixed Focus
• Mount: N/A

Following its predecessors' pattern, the Wide-Screen 2000 doesn't let down in terms of performance. With a desirable stretch factor of 1.5x and an even more desirable compact, lightweight (225g) and solid build, this is probably the best fixed focus anamorphic adapter out there. Focus is fixed from 4m to infinity. Getting close focus shots without diopters is gonna seriously cripple image quality. All focus adjustments are done using the taking lens' focus ring, exactly like the Century Optics.

I've had three copies of this lens. The first one came with its original clamp, the other two didn't, so you should start looking for clamps. Designed as a projection lens, the Isco Wide-Screen 2000 doesn't have any filter threads (neither front nor rear). Alignment is done by loosening the clamp and rotating the lens until flares are horizontal.

Since the Isco 2000 doesn't have any kind of filter threads, here's a cheap and dirty way of embedding it with 72mm filter threads. Get some electrical tape, a 62-72mm step up ring and get to work. The step ring is almost the perfect size for the front of the lens, so just make it tighter with a couple layers of tape and then use some more tape to secure it in place for good. No clamp will ever be this cheap!

In terms of resolution, this guy knocks out the Century Optics, especially around edges. It's sharp even at large apertures, but definitely needs diopters to achieve top image quality in a production environment.

The lens label reads MC (Multi Coated), so don't expect strong flares out of this one. It's actually one of the most muted flares I've seen so far, even less than the Iscorama 42. If you're into anamorphics but despise flares, here's your pick.

On regular filming conditions, I'd say you're free from vignetting from 50mm and up, like any other Isco. There is one exception I'm still investigating: Canon's 40mm f/2.8 pancake lens. It doesn't vignette at all and it even reinforces the anamorphic distortion across the frame. The reason I say this is an exception is because just 3mm shorter, with the Mir 1B already introduces heavy vignetting. Also, the aspect ratio here is 2.66:1 instead of 2.4:1 Cinemascope.

The biggest issue with this lens was finding the correct diopter for each shot. Still, it wasn't that much of a challenge. Allowing for a good variety from wide shots to long telephoto, the Isco Wide-Screen 2000 is a great lens for any kind of anamorphic user. Image quality is above the average for its size and price range and the muted flares could be a down side for J.J. Abrams fans. Image quality around edges is also above average for a fixed focus adapter and it's an Isco lens! Low light wasn't an issue either, with great out of focus highlights and sharp focus at larger apertures. I think it can be an amazing lens to pair with a single focus solution and forget about diopters altogether. If you wanna see more good looking footage shot with this lens, head on to VintageLensesForVideo and check Alan's review!