i have a free day tomorrow and i want to go buy a mono light kit... these are my options.. what do you think? Impact EX100A Two Monolight Kit (120VAC) EX100A-2KII - B&H Photo or Impact One Monolight Kit - 100 Total Watt/Seconds EX100A-KI - or ( this was my original only choice because of reviews) FP320MK Flashpoint II 320M Monolight Kit, One 150 Watt Second Monolight with 10' Air Cushioned Light Stand and 40" White Umbrella with removable Black Cover. or FPBK1 Flashpoint Budget Studio Monolight Flash Basic Kit with 2 160 Watt Second Flashes, 7' Light Stands, 33" White Umbrellas & Softex Carrying Case.
To be frank, none of them. I'd suggest waiting 'til the budget is a bit fatter and look for something a little more solid; Alien Bees, Opus, or similar with modeling lights and easily replaceable flash tubes. As well, 100 - 160 WS is pretty much at the bottom end of the power spectrum. I would look for at least 200 watts plus.
the flashpoint 320, $140 one, has a modeling light.... i can always move up to more powerful stuff later,, mostly my shots will be in doors with some natural light,.... it should be ok... at least i can buy, try it out and return.
I agree I thought I was getting a great deal when I bought my smith victor kit. I MEAN 3 MONO LIGHTS FOR $300?!? But they just aren't worth a dime. build quality is that of garbage there actually is hot glue coming out from the seams and they are just a pain to work with. Id recommend saving up. I wish thats what id done.