Smallrig

Startrail Mattebox with VND Kit

Review
Accessories

Startrail Mattebox with VND Kit

    • SmallRig StarTrail matte box paired with the older VND kit, offering up to 8 stops of variable neutral density.

    • Includes magnetic/detachable circular polarizing filter options within the SmallRig matte box ecosystem (Newer model)

    • Useful for video exposure control in bright conditions while keeping a matte box on the rig.

    • Modular matte-box workflow for rig-based shooting, with options for 100x100mm and 100x150mm filters.

    • Threaded lens-ring adapters allow circular filters to be used in tandem with the matte box (Older model).

  • The SmallRig StarTrail Matte Box with VND Filter Kit is a more rig-oriented filter system for controlling exposure while using a matte box, without the need to invest in square filters right away. The big advantage of this setup is that the lens-ring adapters are threaded, allowing some circular filters to be used alongside the matte box. That makes it more flexible than a basic clamp-on matte box, especially if you already use circular VND or CPL filters.

    The Good:

    • Well built.

    • Stackable filter mounts.

    • Can work with 100x150mm video filters and 100x100mm photo filters.

    • Threaded adapter rings make it possible to some use circular filters with the matte box.

    • Somewhat compatible with circular threaded VND filters such as the Freewell K1 VND and Freewell x Brandon Li VND, though it is more of a workaround than a perfect setup.

    The Bad:

    • The matte box needs to be removed in order to place the VND adapter.

    • More setup time than simpler filter systems.

    • Since the matte box mounts to the lens adapter ring, it needs to be aligned properly so it does not sit crooked.

    • Changing lenses takes longer because you need to remove the matte box, swap filters or adapter rings, then reinstall and realign the matte box (fixed with newer model).

    • There is a way to mount it directly to a rod system with an adapter, but it needs to be lined up perfectly to work well. The newer model improves this.

  • The old model no longer exists. If buying now, get the newer model 4411, which directly includes the VND.

    • Get it if you are looking for an affordable matte box and plan to use the included VND before potentially investing in 100x150mm filters.

    • Get it if you are okay with a bulkier rig.

    • Pass if you already own 100x150mm filters and do not require the VND; in that case, go for the SmallRig Matte Box Lite instead or similar.

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