@larryc39 When you install your replacement lens and spacer, would you be willing to document and share the process (preferably with photos) for those of us who are a bit nervous about damaging our units?
I wish you luck with the 16mm macro lens... IMHO, the ultimate "practical" goal would be to determine a lens / spacing combo that maximizes image capture quality while eliminating the need to cut the case or otherwise void the manufacturer's warranty.
I really want to upgrade the stock lens...
I concur with your goal to focus on improving image quality before pursuing "convenience" features. That said, a lot of questions / complaints could be avoided if the stock features that no longer work as a result of the firmware mods would be hidden / disabled in the UI. Video playback is one...
See post #748 above for a US seller of that 12mm macro lens. Regarding your IR filter question, the spec sheet says "Design Wavelength: 400-950nm"... No mention of any filters.
Many thanks to @Mac84 for starting this effort and to @0dan0 for the incredible firmware improvements that I can't wait to try when my Reels arrives next week. I have no knowledge / experience to share on the firmware front, but I think that I have located a US supplier for the 12mm macro lens...