Tilta has announced that they are developing a new adapter that integrates phase-detection autofocus (PDAF) with their Nucleus-M II Wireless Control System. The system is designed to bridge the gap between modern autofocus performance and the precision control demanded on professional sets. The adapter is still in development, but early tests suggest it could streamline the way autofocus is used with manual cinema lenses, so let’s take a look!
We’ve been covering quite a few Tilta camera accessories over the past couple of months – the full camera cage for Sony FX2, the full camera cage for DJI Osmo 360, and a handheld support system for the DJI Mavic 4 Pro drone – just to name a few. Now, Tilta has focused on refining how their Nucleus-M II Wireless Control System can work alongside modern autofocus capabilities.
How the Tilta PDAF adapter works
According to Tilta, the adapter sends autofocus data from the camera sensor to the Nucleus-M II motors using the system’s 7-pin to 7-pin cable. The above demonstration video gives you an idea of the setup running on a Sony E-mount camera paired with a PL-mount lens. The adapter translates the camera’s autofocus signals, enabling the motors to drive manual cinema lenses in sync with the camera’s AF system.
Unlike LiDAR-based focus systems, which calculate subject distance independently, this adapter relies entirely on the camera’s native autofocus capabilities. If it works as shown, it could avoid the complex calibration often needed with LiDAR setups.
About the Nucleus-M II Wireless Control System
The Nucleus-M II was released in April, which you can read about in detail here, and is Tilta’s updated wireless control system for focus, iris, zoom, and ND. It features high-torque motors with a fast 0.02-second response, a 2.4-inch touchscreen for lens mapping up to 128 lenses, and wireless camera control for start/stop and basic settings. It’s powered by NP-F550 batteries and is backward compatible with the original Nucleus and Nano II systems.
Who is the Tilta PDAF adapter for?
This adapter would be especially useful for camera assistants and independent filmmakers as it blends autofocus speed with manual control, simplifies setup, and builds on Tilta’s established ecosystem at a potentially accessible price. That said, real-world testing will show whether it truly delivers on that promise.
Release timeline
The Tilta PDAF adapter is currently in testing and is expected to be released by the end of this year. Pricing and full technical specifications have not yet been disclosed, but we’ll share more details as soon as they become available.
On a side note, while the demo focuses on Sony’s E-mount, Tilta has confirmed that Canon RF and other mount versions are in the works.
How do you see autofocus integration changing your workflow with cine lenses? Do you think AF integration like this will become standard for wireless control systems? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!