$1000 for a lighting kit, what would you choose?

[gl600]

Hey,
I'm looking to get a flash lighting kit to be used both for weddings and studio work.
I currently own an SB-900, SB-600, and 2 Vivitar 285HV flashes. 3 Umbrella's (2 shoot through, 1 reflector) and a softbox. These are doing a great job for my general purpose lighting but they will not give me the recycle times nor the battery life (they also might lack the power) that I will require.
The question is what kit would you buy with $1000.
Your input is appreciated, thanks.

 

[Mike_E]

Replace the 600 with one of these and then get an extra battery pack.

Nikon | SB-900 Speedlight w/Quantum Turbo SC Battery, Charger


You can wait in the studio.

 

[gl600]

a little too expensive for what seems like not enough...

 

[Big Mike]

If you want something for weddings and other uses...then I agree with Mike E. Stick with Nikon units (maybe SB-800s) so that you can easily use them on-camera as well as off-camera.

They can be used in studio situations and should have enough power. If you want to improve battery life & recycle times, then Quantum Turbo that Mike mentioned, is a good option.

Or are you looking for actual studio monolights?
If so, I'd suggest looking at Alienbee, Elinchrom, Calumet etc.

 

[gl600]

After you put it that way I am wondering... what would be the benefit of getting monolights over nikon units?

 

[Big Mike]

Well, if you are going to shoot in a studio type situation, monolights can be better to work with. They are typically more powerful (if you need it) they usually have modeling lights, they will likely recycle faster and they run directly off of AC power (no batteries to charge).

 

[gl600]

Never mind, did a search and came up with this:
Flickr: Discussing Monolight KITS vs Strobe packs on a 800$ Budget. Any Ideas? in LightSource
But if you have anything to add, please do... I have a bunch of learning to do in this area (getting used to that).
(Anytime I want to purchase new gear it seems like I have to learn about so many different things to make an educated guess... I suppose that it goes with the territory).

 

[gl600]

Thanks for the help