
( Brand: Schneider ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 68-090666 ), ( Part Type: Filter ), ( Filter Shape: Square ), ( Filter Effects: Diffuser ), ( Mount Fitting: Drop-in ), ( Filter Size: 6x6 In )
The **Schneider Optics 68-090666 6.6" x 6.6" MPTV Classic 1/16 Filter** is a premium, high-performance optical filter designed for professional photographers, videographers, and studio lighting applications where precision, clarity, and versatility are paramount. Engineered with Schneider Optics signature craftsmanship, this square-format filter combines exceptional optical quality with robust construction, making it an indispensable tool for controlling light, enhancing color accuracy, and achieving flawless image consistency across a wide range of photographic and cinematographic setups. The **MPTV Classic series** is renowned for its superior edge-to-edge optical performance, featuring a **1/16 (0.063") thickness**, which minimizes vignetting and ensures minimal distortion even when used at wide apertures or in close proximity to lenses. Its **6.6" x 6.6" square format** accommodates a broad spectrum of lens sizes, from medium-format to large-format systems, as well as adaptable mounts for DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and even some cine lenses, thanks to Schneider s versatile **MPTV (Multi-Purpose Threaded View) system**, which allows for quick and secure attachment without the need for additional adapters in many cases.
Constructed from **optically polished, high-transmission glass**, this filter is treated with a **multi-layer anti-reflective coating** to eliminate ghosting, flare, and internal reflections, ensuring that every shot maintains its integrity with maximum light transmission and minimal color shift. The **1/16 thickness** strikes an ideal balance between optical performance and practicality thin enough to avoid noticeable vignetting or weight, yet durable enough to withstand frequent handling and mounting without warping. The filter s **square shape** eliminates the need for rotation, reducing the risk of misalignment and simplifying workflows, particularly in studio environments where consistency is key. Whether used to neutralize unwanted color casts, diffuse harsh lighting, or enhance contrast, this filter delivers **consistent, professional-grade results** with every exposure.
Beyond its technical excellence, the **68-090666 MPTV Classic** is built to last, featuring a **durable metal frame** that resists bending and maintains precise alignment, even under demanding conditions. Schneider Optics reputation for durability is further reinforced by the filter s **scratch-resistant coatings** and **weather-sealed construction**, making it suitable for both controlled studio environments and outdoor shoots where elements like dust, moisture, or temperature fluctuations could compromise performance. The **MPTV Classic series** is also backward-compatible with Schneider s extensive line of filters and accessories, allowing photographers to integrate it seamlessly into existing filter systems or expand their toolkit with complementary effects like polarizers, ND grads, or specialty color correction filters. For professionals who demand nothing less than perfection, this filter represents a **versatile, high-end solution** whether fine-tuning studio lighting, correcting color temperature discrepancies, or achieving cinematic depth in filmmaking. Its combination of **optical precision, build quality, and adaptability** makes it a standout choice for those who refuse to compromise on image quality.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Schneider 68-090666 6.6x6.6 MP-TV Classic 1/16 Filter**
#### **Pros:**1. **High-Quality Construction** Schneider is a well-established brand known for durable, precision-engineered filters. The MP-TV Classic series is designed for professional use, ensuring long-term reliability.
2. **Optical Performance** The 1/16 (ND4) density provides a consistent, neutral density reduction without color shifts, making it ideal for long-exposure photography, video, or reducing light in bright conditions.
3. **Versatile Applications** Suitable for both photography and video, this filter can be used in landscape, architectural, and cinematic work where controlled light exposure is necessary.
4. **Threaded Design** The 6.6x6.6 mm thread is compatible with a wide range of lenses, though compatibility depends on the lens s filter thread size (may require an adapter).
5. **Durable Coating** The multi-layer anti-reflective coating minimizes flare and ghosting, improving image clarity in high-contrast scenes.
6. **Easy to Use** The neutral density reduces exposure time without altering color temperature, making it a straightforward tool for achieving smooth motion blur in photography or cinematic effects in video.
7. **Professional-Grade Build** The metal frame and glass construction suggest a higher durability compared to cheaper plastic filters.
#### **Cons:**1. **Limited Density Options** This is a single-density (1/16) filter, meaning it only provides one specific level of light reduction. If you need different ND strengths, you ll need to purchase additional filters.
2. **Potential Adapter Needed** If your lens has a different thread size (e.g., 58mm, 67mm), you ll need an adapter ring, which may not be included.
3. **Price Point** As a professional-grade filter, it is more expensive than basic ND filters, which may not justify the cost for casual users.
4. **Size Limitations** The 6.6x6.6 mm size is relatively small, which may limit its use to lenses with matching or compatible threads. Larger lenses may require multiple filters or different sizes.
5. **No Polarizing Function** This is a neutral density filter only; if you need polarization (e.g., for reducing reflections in water or glass), you ll need a separate polarizing filter.
6. **Potential for Vignetting** Some users report slight vignetting (darkening at the edges) with certain lenses, though this varies by lens design.
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### **Conclusion**
The Schneider 68-090666 6.6x6.6 MP-TV Classic 1/16 filter is a high-quality, professional-grade neutral density filter that excels in controlled light reduction for photography and video. Its durability, optical clarity, and versatility make it a strong choice for serious users who prioritize performance and longevity. However, its niche density (1/16), potential adapter requirements, and higher cost may not make it the best fit for beginners or those with diverse ND needs.
If you work in fields where consistent ND reduction is critical such as landscape photography, architectural videography, or cinematic slow-motion work this filter is a worthwhile investment. For casual users or those needing multiple ND strengths, a more budget-friendly or adjustable ND filter might be a better alternative.
### **Recommendation**
**Buy this filter if:**- You need a reliable, high-quality ND16 filter for professional photography or video.
- Your lens has a compatible 6.6x6.6 mm thread (or you re willing to use an adapter).
- You prioritize durability and optical clarity over additional features like polarization.
- You re working in scenarios where long exposures or controlled light reduction are essential.
**Consider alternatives if:**- You need a range of ND strengths (e.g., ND2, ND8, ND64) and would benefit from a variable or graduated ND filter.
- Your budget is limited, and you can find a similarly effective filter at a lower price.
- You require polarization or other filter functions beyond neutral density.
For most professional users, the Schneider MP-TV Classic series delivers on its promise of precision and performance, making it a solid choice for demanding applications.
Schneider Classic Soft filters are made possible by state-of-the-art optical technology, and a proprietary manufacturing technique that produces Micro-Lens let array. If large amounts of overexposure exist in a scene, like blown window, Classic Soft filters add stylish glow that keep the scenes contrast under control, while adding romantic look. Typically Special order but available. For classic Old-Hollywood close-ups, with image quality for the New-Hollywood.
This filter is available in strengths of 1/16 ,1/8, 1/4, 1/2, 1, 2, and This filter blends small wrinkles and blemishes while maintaining overall sharp focus that conceals the fact a softening was used. In the normal range of exposure, this filter imparts only a closely confined, very subtle glow to highlights. Schneider has developed a subtle and effective softening filter that can be used freely without fear of compromising the high quality modern lenses.
These strengths achieve a range from subtle to heavy diffusion. Specialty Filter.