I have a alien bee strobe...I was wondering if this soft box would work with it http://cgi.ebay.com/3434-4-Octangle...ryZ30088QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem I'm currently using umbrellas but prefer a softbox...
I saw this in the description: "This Item only for HS,PS Series Flash Light" I'm assuming that's essential info right there. I have never used alienbees, but do any of them have the designation HS or PS?
Doubtful ... I think that has the three lug speedring. Picture is hard to make out .. pretty sure the Britek brand uses those.
Whoops ... misunderstanding. Britek uses the three lug push, twist, lock, thumb screw to keep from turning style speed rings. The ABs use the spring loaded four hook to lip system. It is my understanding that this latter system is pretty much a standard, so searching places like Adorama or B&H (or AB themselves - good stuff) might be a better option.
The key to attaching a softbox to a studio strobe...is the 'Speed Ring'. Your speed ring has to be compatible.
...no speedring needed if you use Westcott's Apollo Mono series. They fold up like an umbrella making setup a snap. http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=cart&A=details&Q=&sku=62240&is=REG
Well if you bought it anyway, the AB clamp will hold the smooth (not lipped) surface ... but don't tip it forwards as it will slide right off. Had one here at the shop and tried drilling out the collar to fit the AB. Apparently the three lug portion is glued on to the main ring so that fell off the first time the drill bit bound up. Got three of the four holes drilled, the fourth broke out. It does hold, even tipped at a 45 degree angle .... but don't know if I'd want the liability if it fell on someone. For archival purposes (and for anyone else that knows better please correct me) the ABs use an industry standard "Chrimera" style speedring.
Jim you know your stuff....Guess I'll bite the bullet and save up for a AB softbox.... Im bouncing off an umbrella at the moment...I prefer the softer light though...
You can soften up that umbrella by moving it back more (but make sure you have enough light left to reach the subject of course). That might help in the interim. The AB standard 4' ocotobox is 129.99 or 49 more than the eBay one in your link. If you can put together the scratch I am sure you will be much happier in the long run.