1. Microscope Parts Lab Equipment For Sale
  2. sku: 12295539578246632
  3. OLYMPUS IM2-ATU

OLYMPUS IM2-ATU Intermediate Tube Lens

Im2-atu Olympus Intermediate Tube With Lens

( Brand: Olympus ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: IM2-ATU ), ( Type: Microscopy )

Review OLYMPUS Intermediate Tube Lens

The Olympus IM2-ATU Intermediate Tube Lens is a precision-engineered optical accessory designed to enhance the performance of Olympus microscope systems, particularly those utilizing infinity-corrected objectives. This high-quality lens serves as a critical intermediary component between the objective lens and the camera or eyepiece, ensuring optimal image quality, resolution, and compatibility across a wide range of imaging applications. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the IM2-ATU is built to maintain minimal optical aberrations while extending the working distance between the objective and the subsequent optical elements, making it an indispensable tool for researchers, biologists, and medical professionals who demand exceptional clarity and precision in their microscopic observations.

Ideal for systems requiring intermediate magnification adjustments, the IM2-ATU features a robust, durable construction that aligns seamlessly with Olympus infinity-corrected microscope designs, including models like the BX series. Its compact yet sturdy design ensures stability during high-magnification imaging, reducing vibrations that could otherwise degrade image sharpness. The lens is engineered with anti-reflective coatings to minimize flare and ghosting, allowing for brighter, more contrast-rich visuals even when working with challenging specimens or under varying lighting conditions. Whether used in fluorescence microscopy, brightfield imaging, or advanced digital photography, the IM2-ATU delivers consistent performance, enabling users to capture fine structural details with remarkable fidelity.

Beyond its technical specifications, the IM2-ATU is a testament to Olympus commitment to innovation and user-centric design. Its compatibility with a broad spectrum of camera systems from DSLRs and digital SLRs to high-resolution scientific cameras makes it a versatile addition to any laboratory or research setup. The lens s precise optical alignment and minimal light loss ensure that every photon captured contributes to the final image, whether the goal is high-resolution documentation, quantitative analysis, or real-time observation. For professionals who rely on their microscopes for critical insights, the IM2-ATU represents a reliable investment in optical excellence, bridging the gap between objective performance and imaging output with uncompromising precision.

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II with the **OLYMPUS IM2-ATU Intermediate Tube Lens** is a specialized setup designed for macro photography, particularly for attaching older interchangeable lens systems (like Micro Four Thirds lenses) to medium format cameras via adapters. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

---

### **Pros of the Olympus IM2-ATU Intermediate Tube Lens**

1. **Enables Medium Format Macro Photography**

The IM2-ATU allows you to attach a Micro Four Thirds lens to a medium format camera body (such as the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II with a medium format adapter) while maintaining a working distance. This setup is ideal for photographers who want to leverage the high resolution of medium format sensors for macro work without needing a dedicated medium format macro lens.

2. **Preserves Image Quality**

By using an intermediate tube lens, you avoid the loss of resolution and sharpness that can occur when using simple adapters or extension tubes. The IM2-ATU is designed to minimize chromatic aberration and maintain image clarity, which is critical for macro photography where details matter.

3. **Compatibility with Existing Micro Four Thirds Lenses**

If you already own a collection of Micro Four Thirds macro lenses (e.g., the Olympus M.Zuiko 60mm f/2.8 Macro, 30mm f/3.5 Macro, or third-party lenses like the Laowa 100mm f/2.8), the IM2-ATU lets you repurpose them for medium format macro work without purchasing entirely new lenses.

4. **Flexibility for Creative Work**

The setup allows for unique perspectives and magnifications that are difficult to achieve with standard macro lenses. For example, you can use a wide-angle Micro Four Thirds lens to create extreme close-ups on a medium format sensor, resulting in highly detailed and large-format images.

5. **Compact and Lightweight**

Compared to dedicated medium format macro lenses, the IM2-ATU is relatively compact and lightweight. This makes it easier to carry around for field photography or travel.

6. **Cost-Effective Alternative**

For photographers who already own a medium format body and Micro Four Thirds lenses, the IM2-ATU can be a more affordable solution than investing in a dedicated medium format macro lens system (e.g., from Phase One, Hasselblad, or Fujifilm).

---

### **Cons of the Olympus IM2-ATU Intermediate Tube Lens**

1. **Limited to Specific Setups**

The IM2-ATU is not a universal solution. It is designed specifically for the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II with a medium format adapter (such as the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II with the OM System OM-D E-M1 Mark II to OM-D E-M1 Mark II Medium Format Adapter). It may not work seamlessly with other camera bodies or adapters, and compatibility with third-party adapters could be an issue.

2. **Complex Workflow**

Using the IM2-ATU requires careful setup and alignment. The intermediate tube lens must be properly positioned between the Micro Four Thirds lens and the medium format adapter to avoid vignetting or focus issues. This can be tricky for beginners or photographers unfamiliar with manual focus and alignment.

3. **Potential for Vignetting**

Depending on the combination of lenses and adapters used, vignetting (darkening of the corners) can occur. This is less of an issue with telephoto lenses but may be more noticeable with wide-angle lenses or certain focal lengths.

4. **Focus and Depth of Field Challenges**

Macro photography already requires precise focus control, and adding an intermediate tube lens can further complicate depth of field calculations. The working distance is reduced, which may make it harder to focus on small subjects without disturbing them. Additionally, depth of field becomes extremely shallow, requiring careful planning and use of focus stacking software.

5. **Limited Availability and Support**

The IM2-ATU is not a widely produced or marketed product, which means it may be harder to find, repair, or replace if damaged. Olympus does not offer extensive documentation or customer support for this specific accessory, which could be a drawback for photographers who encounter issues.

6. **Not Ideal for All Macro Subjects**

While the setup excels for still-life macro photography, it may not be practical for subjects that require movement or dynamic shooting (e.g., insects in flight). The limited working distance and manual focus requirements can make it difficult to capture fast-moving subjects.

7. **Potential for Image Distortion**

Depending on the combination of lenses and adapters, there may be slight distortions or aberrations introduced by the intermediate tube lens. While Olympus designs the IM2-ATU to minimize these issues, they cannot be entirely eliminated, especially when using non-native lenses.

---

### **Conclusion**

The Olympus IM2-ATU Intermediate Tube Lens is a niche but powerful tool for photographers who want to combine the versatility of Micro Four Thirds macro lenses with the resolution of a medium format sensor. It is particularly valuable for those who already own a medium format body and Micro Four Thirds lenses and are looking for a cost-effective way to expand their macro capabilities. However, the setup is not without challenges, including complexity, potential vignetting, and focus difficulties. It is best suited for photographers who are comfortable with manual focus, precise alignment, and post-processing techniques like focus stacking.

---

### **Recommendation**

The IM2-ATU is **recommended for:**

- Photographers who already own a medium format Olympus body (e.g., OM-D E-M1 Mark II with a medium format adapter) and a collection of Micro Four Thirds macro lenses.

- Those who prioritize image resolution and detail in macro photography and are willing to invest time in learning the setup.

- Enthusiasts who enjoy creative, high-magnification work and are open to experimenting with non-standard setups.

- Budget-conscious photographers who want to avoid the high cost of dedicated medium format macro lenses.

**Not recommended for:**

- Beginners or photographers unfamiliar with manual focus and alignment.

- Those who need a quick, plug-and-play macro solution without additional setup.

- Photographers primarily interested in dynamic or fast-moving subjects.

- Users who do not already own a medium format Olympus body or Micro Four Thirds macro lenses, as the cost of acquiring all necessary components may outweigh the benefits.

If you are considering this setup, thoroughly research compatibility with your specific lenses and adapters, and be prepared to invest time in testing and fine-tuning the configuration. For most photographers, the IM2-ATU is a specialized tool rather than a general-purpose solution, but for those who fit the right profile, it can unlock unique creative possibilities.

Details:

220 2nd St NW. Layette, AL 35555. Lens is clean and clear with no mold or lamination. Olympus IM2-ATU Intermediate Tube with Lens.

Pulled from a decommissioned Olympus IMT-2 inverted microscope. Unit is used in good condition.

part #: im2 prices

  • $49.95-$3360.00

specifications microscopepartzo:

  • brand: Olympus
  • mpn: Im2-atu
  • type: Microscopy

returns microscopepartzo:

  • policy: Returns Accepted
  • time: 30 Days
  • paid by: Buyer
  • method: Money back

shipping microscopepartzo:

  • transit: 3-7 Days
  • service: Standard
  • type: Fixed
  • class: Standard
  • cost: $12.00

offer microscopepartzo:

  • options: Ship-to-home
  • sold: 0
  • best offers: True
  • quantity: 1
  • started: February 18, 2026
  • availability: In Stock

seller microscopepartzo:

  • city: Fayette, Alabama
  • # reviews: 1870

payments microscopepartzo:

  • wallet: Apple-pay
  • other
  • credit card: Discover

general microscopepartzo:

  • Medical/Lab Equipment Attachments Accessories > Microscope Parts Accessories > Other Microscope Parts Accessories
  • condition: Used
type: microscopy,
category: business & industrial > medical/lab equipment attachments accessories > microscope parts accessories, sku: 12295539578246632,
Olympus IM2 Is Similar To:
microscopepartzo logo
3 offers $49.95–$3360.00 USD
  • Used. Offer #1 priced at $49.95 + $12.00 shipping estimate = $61.95* total. 220 2nd St NW. Unit is used in good condition.+$12.00 shipping
  • Used. Offer #2 priced at $2800.00 + $350.00 shipping estimate = $3150.00* total. 21.0) has DIC prisms for 10x, 20x, and 40x in good condition as well as Phase Contrast for 10x and 40x Olympus -LWDNC NIC/PHASE CONTRAST long working distance condenser (N A.+$350.00 shipping
  • Used. Offer #3 priced at $3360.00 + $350.00 shipping estimate = $3710.00* total. Olympus IMT-2 inverted microscope stand with Olympus -LWDNC Nomarski condenser (N A Clean, tested and working well.+$350.00 shipping

Copyright © microscopepartzo.net