On November 14th, 2019 Kase released its newest filter combo called the K9. Kase was kind enough to send me the kit so I could test it and write this review. The first thing I would like to say is they have not paid me to write this or encouraged me to say anything. This is a completely unbiased review of the product.
In the 40 plus years of photography, I have always shot landscapes with filters on the lens. It has been my go-to plan. I am a firm believer that getting it right in the camera makes a better product in the end. I like to control the light and the movement of water and clouds in the camera, so I test all my filters to their maximum. This is a new system for me as I am used to the screw on filters as opposed to the square (glass) filters. I am pleased with the packaging and the quality of the filters and the feeling of the coating. The package that was sent to me included the filter holder, circular polarizer, and 2 ND filters. One of the filters was a soft Graduated ND 0.9, 3 stop and a 1.8, 6 stop ND.
After shooting with these filters for several weeks I can say with certainty the filters are exceptional quality and in my opinion, they are better than anything I have used in the past.
Here are a few points based on my findings.
1- The filter holder is made from Aluminum, not plastic.
2- The K9 kit comes with several step-up rings 67 to 82, 72 to 82, a 90mm CPL, 77 and 82 geared adapter rings, The polarizer is magnetic and a real treat to use. On the filter holder is a geared dial to rotate the polarizer without having to touch it.
3- No Colour Cast, I will say it again NO COLOUR CAST
4- No Vignetting
5- No Lens Flares
6- The foam between the filter and the filter holder is nice and tight and does not produce any light leaks.
7- The filters have a scratch-resistant coating and are extremely rugged. The manufacturer has completed drop tests on the glass that is very impressive.
8- The filters are very easy to clean and they don’t seem to smear when using a lens cloth.
9- Once you attach the 77mm or 82mm geared adapter ring to your lens you can leave it on so the filters can be attached in a matter of seconds. Kase also includes lens caps for the geared adapter rings.
10- Each filter comes in a soft leather pouch with a magnetic flap for protection.
11- The image sharpness is not affected.
Some of the test images I took are following this paragraph. I purposely shot into the brightest part of the sky to see if any ghosting or flares would develop. By loosening the attachment knob the filter can be rotated to achieve the best angle on your subject matter.
I also really liked the soft Grad ND as it was so nice to work with one of that size. It allowed total control of the scene. I would include the hard ND as well to the system.
In conclusion, I have to say these are some of the nicest filters I have ever worked with and I am looking forward to using them every day in the field. I would highly recommend them and if you have never shot with filters give these a try as I am sure you will see the difference immediately.
Get it right… In the camera!
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