Helios 44-M vs Sirui Saturn : Vintage Lens vs Modern Anamorphic

We put two very different lenses to the test: the budget-friendly Helios 44-M and the high-end Sirui Saturn 75mm anamorphic. Both were used in a professionally lit scene, and the results are stunning! Watch as we compare the unique characteristics of these lenses, showcasing the vintage charm of the Helios 44-M and the cinematic quality of the Sirui Saturn 75mm. Can you spot the difference? Which lens do you think performs better? Let us know in the comments!

[@AngelFromHeaven000]

The most fair scenario where you would compare the 2 would've been in a lit environment. Having them compared with pitch black background is a stretch because both lenses have characteristics which gives "personality" to the corners of the image. (Which can't be seen properly in this scenario) Both of them are sharp in the middle and will alter the edges. ( Oval bokeh for the Saturn in this case due to being anamorphic) I could tell from the start the bottom one was the Saturn since I've been researching this lens for a while, but as I mentioned above, the comparison test should've been done differently. Also currently owning a Heliso 44-2 KMZ edition and planning to buy the Saturn next month. I'm super excited.

[@mattspadesoundandvision]

This is true, however, I mention that I did not set out to do a comparison. It happened when I went to the Helios for the close up shot. You are correct that having depth the field would showcase these lenses but once again, I do mention and use examples showing what the different lenses do and what their characteristics are. The purpose of this video was to show how they do work together in a real world scenario, such as the one I fell into.

[@JasonAllard]

Hey Matt - thanks for this comparison. I love seeing old vs. new performance like this. I'm of the mindset that you never need the freshest tech to get clean shots or tell a story. Videos like this are proof of that.

[@mattspadesoundandvision]

Thank you for that! I appreciate it and I often need to remind myself the same.

[@davideastham]

I wouldn't trade my Helios for anything.

[@mattspadesoundandvision]

It really is an amazing lens! Thanks!

[@owenjenkinsofficial]

Honestly I’m okay paying up to 400 for the Helios. If you get the cine-modded version from Iron Glass, they will source the best version, clean it, add aperture blades, add correct mirrorless/pl mounts and declick them so they work for videography.

[@mattspadesoundandvision]

I saw a few with the focus gears attached when I purchased mine. There are also options to buy it with a specific mount type adapted to it. I agree on the price point for this lens. It’s a great investment.

[@markexploringnewstuff]

Matt, nice job as always.

[@mattspadesoundandvision]

Thank you so much!

[@PaulOuzounov]

I really really like the Helios!! Wow!

[@mattspadesoundandvision]

It’s a great lens, especially for the price! It works great as both a stills and video lens. Very unique image. Thank you!!

[@Walnutplaner]

thanks for influencing other small time guitar picking solo filmmakers!!

[@mattspadesoundandvision]

This is so awesome to hear and I am humbled by this. Keep on rockin' and filming!

[@artmicca]

Indeed, use the gear that you have... I have Helios and I use it! 👍

[@mattspadesoundandvision]

It's one of the best purchases I've made in a while and is so versatile. I even adapted my Tamron (for pentax K mont) 28-50 macro and it looks amazing! Cheers!

[@sjoerdsiemes]

How are you comparing 2 lenses that are not similar in any way

[@mattspadesoundandvision]

I explain this in the video. I used the 75 on the interview and wanting to get closer I used the 50mm.

[@asmrlovecraftpoe3692]

I actaully was looking for this. I have the Helios with the anamorphic adaptor and was curious as to how the Saturn 75mil would work with it. Thanks!