which Nikon flash(es)

[selmerdave]

Have a wireless mode triggered by any other flash light? Looking to use it in manual mode, not interested in TTL capability in wireless mode. SB-26 appears to have it but what I read is that it needs to be triggered by a compatible unit. I would like something that could be triggered by any flash like my Pentax FGZ-360 does.

Dave

 

[Sideburns]

you could buy a sensor unit for whatever flash you want if you wanted to do it that way...probably cheaper if you find cheap flashes.

 

[selmerdave]

Thanks, I guess that's an option. Cheaper flashes don't tend to have much in the way of manual controls though.

Dave

 

[Big Mike]

One of THESE will trigger most flash units optically (when another flash is fired)

There are plenty of good flash units that have some degree of power control, check E-bay for Vivitar 283 units. Also, you can simply move the flash closer or farther away to change it's affect on the subject.

 

[XJBaylor]

I believe the SB's that can be triggered optically (without CLS) are the 24, 26, 80 and 800. The SB-80DX is almost identical to the 800 (though without i-TTL) so if you can find them for cheap they are incredible.

Keith

 

[jstuedle]

In addition to the Vivitar 283, the Sunpak 383 is a good cheap flash. These flashes have 2 main weaknesses, cheap build quality and lack of a zoom head. I used the 383 for years but stepped up to a couple SB-28's and a couple SB-80DX's. If you can find used 80DX's used for $100 or less, they are your best bet. They power down to 1/128th power and zoom from 24 to 105mm. They are good rugged flashes.

 

[selmerdave]

Thanks for the info everybody. The Vivitar's three power levels are not as much as I am looking for (nor does moving it give enough control), and it does not swivel. My experience with Sunpak is that I don't want to have any more experiences with Sunpak. I didn't realize that the SB-24 can be triggered optically, either I don't know how to identify it or that capability is not published in the standard specs. I'll check out the 80DX too.

Dave