Looking for a cheap flash

[existence02]

I've been looking for a flash unit for some time now at a decent price. Browsing CL like I so often do when I'm bored I just came across a listing that has my interests, but I'm not 100% sold on it just yet. I come here to get your opinions on the listing.

Vivitar 285HV and a Cactus V2 transmitter with 2 receivers for $90.

I keep reading mixed reviews of the Vivitar, but Strobist gave it a glowing recommendation.

 

[SrBiscuit]

lots of people use them because they are cheap and have a pretty strong output.

ive never used one personally, but that listing seems like a good deal to me.

 

[Misfitlimp]

Read the thread about pop up flash they got some ideas for cheap! HAHA!

 

[icassell]

I still use my 32 year old Vivitar 283 as a slave and for my DIY ringflash and love it (I protect my camera with a wein safe-synch). The 285 is a good unit ... you just lose the ability to use TTL flash control with your camera. I believe the newer breed of 285 has addressed the issue of high-voltage -- make certain you have one of those or use a safe-synch.

 

[flyin-lowe]

Keep shopping around, I found a mint condition 430 EX speedlite for $100.00 shipped. There are deals out there you just have to be patient. On something like a flash I would look at different cities and states, they can be shipped very cheap.

 

[PhotoXopher]

Nikon SB-400, I love mine - had 2 SB-600's and sold them both.

Granted, I have no idea what kind of camera you have so this may be a worthless post

I also realize the SB-400 isn't for everyone, but neither is $1000 or more of 'strobist gear'.

 

[existence02]

Nikon SB-400, I love mine - had 2 SB-600's and sold them both.

Granted, I have no idea what kind of camera you have so this may be a worthless post

I also realize the SB-400 isn't for everyone, but neither is $1000 or more of 'strobist gear'.

An SB-400 is actually what I want. This ad caught my attention for the V2s more than anything. I realize they are cheap, but I figured both the flash and the V2s could be a decent deal especially if the Vivitar became a secondary light source in the future.

But yeah I keep hearing great things about the 400 especially from people like you who got rid of the 600s because the 400 is so good and so much smaller.

 

[Derrel]

Depends on how you want to use the flash...if you want to use it in-shoe, the 285HV has only tilt, n swivel, making the older Sunpak 383 a better unit for those who want a shoe-mounted flash for bounce flash work.

If you want the flash for use off-camera, the two receivers, transmitter, and 285 for $100 seems attractive.

The camera body you have also enters into the mix.

 

[Goontz]

Nikon SB-400, I love mine - had 2 SB-600's and sold them both.

Granted, I have no idea what kind of camera you have so this may be a worthless post

I also realize the SB-400 isn't for everyone, but neither is $1000 or more of 'strobist gear'.

What was your reason for getting rid of the 600's? I've been toying with the idea of getting a flash and somewhat torn between the two (400 and 600). I don't do a whole lot where I'd need a flash, but one would be good to have around. The monetary savings of going 400 instead of 600 is the biggest selling point for me, even though I know the 600 is obviously a better flash with more potential. Any input you can provide?

 

[PhotoXopher]

Most of my shots are 'around the house', kids, etc... The SB-400 is compact and easy to use (not that the 600 is difficult). Takes only 2 batteries and does a FANTASTIC job.

Some will tell you the SB-400 can't bounce off anything but an 8' ceiling - I can prove otherwise with great results off an 11' ceiling.

In short, it does everything I need in a flash and does it beyond my expectations.

 

[Goontz]

Thanks, N0yze. As of right now, I don't usually shoot much that needs a flash except the 'around the house' stuff, so I think the SB-400 fits the bill pretty good. Thanks again.