Schneider Super-Symmar HM 120mm f/5.6

Schneider Super-Symmar HM 120mm f/5.6 is the high-modulation-transfer 4×5 + 5×7 wide-normal plasmat — the HM (High-Modulation) designation indicates Schneider's optimization for fine-detail resolution. Optimized for the digital-scanning era's higher resolution requirements while retaining the optical-formula compatibility of plasmat designs.

Key features

• Mount: Copal 0 shutter (1s to 1/500, X-sync at all speeds)
• Focal length: 120mm
• Maximum aperture: f/5.6
• Image circle: ~211mm at f/22 — covers 4×5 with movements; covers 5×7 tightly
• Optical formula: HM-optimized plasmat
• Multi-coating standard

Use case + rendering

The 120 HM is the high-resolution 4×5 wide-normal — engineered for digital scanning and large-format-print applications where MTF at the high spatial frequencies matters. Visible improvement over the older Apo-Symmar 120 in fine detail at 30+ inch print size.

Compatible cameras

• Toyo 45A / Toyo 45AII / Toyo 45G
• Cambo SC / Cambo Calumet 45NX
• Graflex Crown Graphic / Graflex Speed Graphic / Graflex Super Graphic

Related lenses

• Schneider Apo-Symmar 120mm f/5.6 — older standard
• Schneider Super-Symmar XL 110mm f/5.6 — XL sibling at adjacent FL
• Schneider Super-Symmar HM 150mm f/5.6 — longer HM