Aputure Motorized CF16 Fresnel Review [2025]

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Aputure has just released the Motorized CF16 Fresnel, a 16-inch lens made for the STORM XT52 LED light. The lens has a motorized focus system that lets you adjust the beam smoothly from a narrow 18° spot to a wide 50° flood. It can increase the XT52’s light output by up to seven times while keeping the light even and soft from the center to the edges. This fixture is compact, easy to control, and works well for any situation where precise and adjustable lighting is needed.

Special Features of the Aputure Motorized CF16 Fresnel

Specification	Details
Lens Diameter	16 inches (40.6 cm)
Beam Angle (Spot to Flood)	18° (spot) to 50° (flood)
Light Output Boost	Up to 7x when used with the STORM XT52
Focus System	Motorized dual-expanding focusing system with 12-second throw duration
Control Methods	DMX, CRMX, Sidus Link, Sidus Link Pro, or directly from the fixture’s lamp head
Weather Resistance	IP65 rating (dust-tight and protected against water jets)
Dimensions	56.4 x 51.9 x 23.4 cm (22.2 x 20.4 x 9.2 in)
Weight	11.80 kg (26.01 lbs)
Included Accessories	CF16 Barn Doors, Safety Cable, and choice of Rolling Case or Flight Case
Optional Accessories	CF16 Fresnel Manual Focus Cover (required for manual mode)
Price	$2,690 USD

1. 16-Inch Motorized Lens Boosts Light Output

The Aputure Motorized CF16 Fresnel features a 16-inch diameter lens that can increase the brightness of the STORM XT52 by up to seven times. It delivers smooth light falloff from the center to the edges, giving a natural, cinematic look to your shots.

2. Smooth Light Transition

The lens design ensures a smooth transition from the center to the edges of the light beam. This even distribution eliminates harsh shadows and provides a natural falloff, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the shot.

3. Compact and Lightweight Design

Despite its powerful performance, the CF16 Fresnel is compact and weighs only 11.8 kilograms. This makes it easy to carry, set up, and move around on set, giving you professional-grade lighting without the hassle of heavy equipment.

4. Motorized Focusing System

The CF16 Fresnel features a motorized dual-expanding focusing system that allows precise control over the beam angle. You can adjust the light from a narrow spot to a wide flood without touching the fixture, giving you more flexibility during shoots and helping you shape the lighting exactly how you want

5. Barn Doors for Precise Light Shaping

The Motorized CF16 Fresnel comes with 8-leaf CF16 Barn Doors, a light modifier for extra control over the light. The Barn Doors can also hold a scrim for diffusion, giving you even more creative options.

6. Remote Control Compatibility

This fixture offers versatile remote control options, allowing users to adjust the beam angle and focus without physically touching the device. It supports DMX, CRMX, Sidus Link, and Sidus Link Pro, providing flexibility for various setups and environments.

7. Weather-Resistant Design

With an IP65 rating, the CF16 Fresnel is built to handle different environmental conditions. If you are shooting indoors or outdoors, you can rely on it to perform consistently even in challenging weather situations.

8. Optional Accessories Expand Functionality

Aputure also released two accessories to increase flexibility. The CF16 Fresnel Manual Focus Cover lets users turn off the motor and operate the Fresnel manually while keeping its IP65 weather rating and cooling fan connection.

The CF16 Barn Doors Adapter allows the Barn Doors to mount directly to the STORM XT52 without the Fresnel.

Kits of the Include Cases for Easy Transport

Aputure offers this motorized fixture in kits that include the Barn Doors.
Kits come with either a Rolling Soft Case or a Flight Case.
Cases make it easy to transport and protect the Fresnel when moving between locations.