In one aspect of the present disclosure, improved end optics are disclosed that maximize the numerical aperture focused at a sample point (sample focus 720) while minimizing unwanted artifacts such as vignetting. The configurations also maintain centering of the excitation/collection beam on the objective (focus lenes 202) if the probe tilts or bends. The disclosed configurations are particularly suited to probes wherein the excitation and/or collection paths between the probe and the laser/analyzer are coupled through multimode fibers, such as in Raman and other forms of laser spectroscopy. The disclosure includes the insertion of one or more additional lenses (e.g. lenses 702, 704) between the probe head and the focusing objective at the probe tip.
