04/22/2026
NAB 2026 — wrap up
Wrapping up our time at NAB.
One of the biggest moments for us was seeing the custom Atlas IMAX lenses used on the latest Dune films.
Not replicas.
The actual lenses developed alongside Denis Villeneuve and cinematographer Linus Sandgren.
These are custom spherical IMAX lenses built specifically for that look. Seeing them up close, you start to understand how much intention goes into shaping an image at that level.
From there, we spent time digging into lenses and audio across the floor.
SIRUI is continuing to build out their IronStar anamorphic line with new 75mm, 100mm, and 135mm options.
SIRUI used to get written off as a budget option. That’s not really the case anymore. The build quality, consistency, and overall look have improved a lot. These are becoming serious lenses, and you can tell they’re getting better with every iteration.
The 100mm being a macro stood out. That’s rare in anamorphic and opens up some creative possibilities you don’t usually get.
We also spent time looking at Kinefinity.
They’ve been flying under the radar, but the cameras and rigs are starting to feel a lot more complete. Better build quality, better ergonomics, and setups that feel closer to something you can take straight onto a working set without having to rebuild everything.
On the audio side, Deity is making a strong push.
We got a close look at their new THEOS system. Dual-channel wideband UHF with 32-bit float built directly into the transmitters. That solves a lot of real-world problems when things don’t go perfectly on set.
Also checked out the PR-4 before release.
Six tracks in a pocket-sized recorder, clearly built for more complex setups.
Even small things mattered. Azden had new braided cables on display that aren’t out yet. Better durability, cleaner signal… the kind of upgrade boom operators actually rely on.
Stepping back, the biggest takeaway from NAB this year:
Cleaner systems. More reliable setups. Less time troubleshooting.
Good trip.
Back to work. Production meetings this weekend for Inspired!
