Ikelite Underwater Housing Canon 80D

Canon cameras are known for their great ergonomics. Ikelite extends this underwater, providing larger controls and push buttons which are easy to access even with thick gloves. Whenever possible, controls are located in the same configuration as on the camera to replicate the muscle memory and familiarity you’ve developed with your camera on the surface. Control symbols laser engraved into the back of the housing will never peel off or fade even with years of use. The camera’s large, super-bright LCD screen is viewable edge-to-edge through the back of the housing.

The front-loading camera mounting system makes installation and removal a breeze. The camera mounting plate allows ready access to the battery and memory card, and features a standard 1/4-20 mounting point for attachment to a tripod topside.

Lens Ports

The single most important upgrade is Ikelite’s long awaited new Dry Lock (DL) port system. This exciting new system is even more robust and even easier to assembly than their time-tested Four Lock (FL) system. The new ports are lighter and more adaptable, and can accommodate extremely large diameter lenses with ease. If you’re considering shooting professional quality lenses like the Canon EF 16-35mm Type II/III or the Canon EF 11-24mm, then the DL system is essential.

Most popular zoom lenses and select lens focus rings can be engaged using a simple yet effective gearing system that puts adjustment right at your fingertips. A large, soft-touch lobed knob on the side of the housing makes fine tuned adjustments a breeze. Zoom and focus gears differ depending on which lens you are using. All are lightweight and affordable. Refer to the DL System Port Chart to choose the correct gear. Zoom gears sold separately.

Due to differences in mount diameter and zoom engagement, DL and FL system ports cannot be used interchangeably. The DL port mount may be removed and replaced with old style port locks for legacy users with standard or modular ports from our Four Lock system. This modification will prevent the use of newer DL ports. The housing cannot be converted back and forth repeatedly. Re-installation of the DL port base will require the housing to be returned to Ikelite or an Authorized Dealer and may incur additional service charges.

Vacuum System

The included vacuum valve allows you to vacuum test the housing to check for leaks prior to putting your expensive equipment in the water. Combined with a full view of the camera and o-ring seal through the back of the housing, there is no greater assurance that your gear will be safe. Ikelite’s signature open-groove design suspends the rear o-ring in a natural position that is easier to maintain and more reliable than forcing the o-ring into a channel. Use of the vacuum valve requires a compatible Vacuum Pump with Gauge #47011, sold separately.

TTL Exposure

This housings supports your choice of shooting with manual strobe exposure or adding a TTL converter depending on your application. The flash bulkhead is located on the top of the case to reduce strain on the sync cord.

You can enjoy the fastest and most accurate TTL exposure on the market by adding the DL5 DS Link Canon TTL Converter and CT1 TTL Hotshoe Kit # 46075 and a compatible Ikelite DS strobe. Exposure compensation can be used added or subtracted in the camera.

Reliable locking connectors between the hotshoe and bulkhead make it easy to install the CT1 TTL Hotshoe or carry back up parts when traveling to remote locations.

Controls and Set-Up

In addition to the more ergonomic zoom control, we’ve also upgraded the all-important shutter and AF-ON levers to a more natural feeling curved design. Both controls can optionally be extended using the Shutter Trigger Extension # 4077.95 for more comfortable use when using a right-hand quick release handle.

Even Ikelite’s push buttons have been redesigned to reduce weight and salt build-up. The back of the housing features laser engraved control symbols which will never fade or fall off.

The camera mount is now front-loading for easy installation and removal. A small mounting plate attaches to the bottom of the camera and secures in the front of the housing. The camera mounting plate does not need to be removed from the camera for surface use or when changing the battery or memory cards. The mounting plate features a 1/4-20 threaded mount on the bottom so that it can be attached to a tripod on the surface.

Viewfinders

The included Supereye Viewfinder provides an enhanced view of the camera’s optical viewfinder when viewed through a dive mask. The viewfinder removes quickly and easily for the attachment of an optional Straight Magnified Viewfinder # 6890.2 or 45° Magnified Viewfinder (Type 2) # 6891.2.

Handling & Travel

Overall the housing is over 227g (1/2 pound) lighter than its former FL counterpart (housing model # 6871.08). If you’re shooting an 8″ diameter dome, you’ll save an additional 794g (1 3/4 pounds) by using the DL version instead. Ikelite’s new hard anodized aluminum base with quick release handle has also been streamlined for travel and is over 340g (3/4 pound) lighter than Ikelite’s previous DSLR tray and handle system.

The Right-Hand Quick Release Handle # 4077.02 (sold separately) can be added or removed depending on how you want to shoot. The precision machined aluminum base features 1/4-20 tripod mounting sockets and additional mounting locations for future accessories. Plus, the base and handle can be quickly removed when breaking down your system for travel.

A 1/4-20 threaded mounting point is located front and center on the housing above the lens port mount. This mount can be used to attach lightweight accessories like a focus light or GoPro camera.

If you’re shooting with two strobe or lighting arms, then an Aluminium Top Handle # 4080.08 can be added to make the system easier to carry to and from the dive site. The rigid aluminium version provides additional mounting points for lighting and accessories.