Tilta has formally launched the Nucleus Auto Focus Adapter (E to PL), a lens mount adapter that brings phase-detection autofocus to totally handbook PL cinema lenses when paired with Sony E-mount cameras. The adapter works with Tilta’s Nucleus-M II and Nucleus Nano II wi-fi lens management programs, translating the digital camera’s native AF information into motor-driven focus actions. It’s out there for pre-order beginning at $269, with transport scheduled after April 7, 2026.

After first teasing the idea again in August 2025 and displaying a working prototype at Inter BEE 2025, Tilta is now making the Nucleus Auto Focus Adapter formally out there. The product addresses an actual stress in skilled filmmaking: cinematographers love the character and optical high quality of classic and high-end cinema lenses, however these lenses are solely handbook, which may make them impractical in run-and-gun, documentary, or small-crew eventualities the place a devoted focus puller isn’t out there.

How the system works

In contrast to LiDAR-based autofocus options that independently measure topic distance, the Nucleus Auto Focus Adapter faucets straight into the digital camera’s personal phase-detection autofocus system. The adapter reads AF information from the sensor of suitable Sony cameras, together with the FX3, FX30, and FX6, and interprets that data into exact motor instructions despatched to a Nucleus-M II or Nucleus Nano II motor through Tilta’s customary 7-pin cable connection.

As a result of the system depends on the digital camera’s native AF engine, it inherits all the digital camera’s topic recognition capabilities. Which means Sony’s face detection and eye monitoring work with PL lenses that have been by no means designed for autofocus. In accordance with Tilta, this method provides the adapter a key benefit over distance-measuring programs: it understands what’s within the body, not simply how far-off one thing is. The adapter is suitable with Sony’s Alpha and FX digital camera traces as much as the FX6.

Lens library and calibration

One sensible concern with any adapter-based AF system is calibration. Tilta has constructed a lens profile library straight into the adapter, pre-loaded with information for a variety of widespread cinema lenses from producers together with ARRI, Cooke, and DZOFilm. For supported lenses, customers merely choose the suitable profile from the on-screen menu and begin capturing, with no extra calibration required.

For lenses not but within the library, handbook calibration is easy. Customers enter simply two information factors, focal size and most aperture, and the adapter maps the lens mechanics accordingly. This course of is dealt with solely by means of the adapter’s personal built-in show and controls, so no smartphone app or exterior software program is required. Customized lens profiles could be saved to the adapter’s inside storage and shared throughout linked Nucleus hand items, which is a helpful workflow element when swapping lenses continuously on set. Tilta has indicated that the lens library will increase by means of firmware updates.

Seamless AF/MF switching

One of many adapter’s most important options for working professionals is its prompt AF/MF override. When paired with the Nucleus-M II FIZ hand unit (our assessment right here), a 1st AC can take handbook management at any second for exact focus pulls or inventive racks, then launch handy management again to autofocus. This toggle method preserves the standard focus-pulling workflow whereas providing AF as a fallback or major mode relying on the shot.

The system additionally helps iris management when two wi-fi motors are linked. In that configuration, the second motor drives the iris ring, and aperture changes could be made by means of the digital camera’s digital management. In accordance with Tilta’s demonstration video, the adapter works in photograph mode as nicely, which opens up PL glass to hybrid shooters and photographers.

Compatibility and ecosystem

The Nucleus Auto Focus Adapter is designed particularly for Tilta’s present wi-fi lens management ecosystem. It really works with each the Nucleus-M II and the extra reasonably priced Nucleus Nano II (our assessment right here) motor programs, which implies customers already invested in Tilta’s ecosystem can add autofocus functionality with out changing their present wi-fi management {hardware}. The adapter additionally features a new rod assist system that mounts straight with out requiring a conventional baseplate.

This primary model helps Sony E-mount to PL-mount solely. Tilta has confirmed that Canon RF-mount and L-mount variations are deliberate for the long run, although no particular timelines have been shared. It’s price noting that Viltrox has additionally entered this house with the NexusFocus F1 adapter, which launched on Kickstarter a couple of weeks in the past at a significantly larger value level beginning round $699 for early-bird kits.

Pricing and availability

The Tilta Nucleus Auto Focus Adapter is out there in two equipment configurations in the course of the pre-order interval, which features a 10% low cost. The Base Equipment is priced at $269 (common $299) and contains the adapter, a 15mm rod adapter, two aluminum rods (15 x 100mm), a 3mm Allen key, a Nucleus 7-pin to USB-C energy cable, and an Superior Facet Focus Deal with USB-C management cable for the Nano II Motor V2. The Twin Nano II Motor Equipment is priced at $449 (common $499) and provides two Nucleus Nano II motors, a USB-C energy cable, and a Tilta F970 battery plate V2.

Pre-orders are open now with no deposit required; cost isn’t charged till the order ships. Transport is scheduled to start after April 7, 2026, and there’s a restrict of 1 unit per buyer throughout this preliminary run.

Do you see an adapter like this becoming into your workflow with handbook cinema glass? May phase-detection AF lastly make classic and high-end PL lenses sensible for small crews and solo operators? Tell us within the feedback beneath!