Which Flash is Right for me?

[Darth Matt]

Hi All,

Just purchased a 60D TLK and have put it together with my older EF lenses from my film camera days.

My question is regarding a flash.

I have an older Sunpak Power Zoom 4000AF which I am not sure will work correctly with the 60D.

If that is the case, is it worth spending the extra money on the 580EXII or save a little and get the 430EXII?

Thanks

[Scotty72]

Can't help you with the compatiblity question.

As for the flash: if you can, go for the 580ex11 - unless you're just taking happy snaps.

[MarkChap]

Well I suppose it all depends an what you want your flash to do,
The 580 obviously has a greater Guide Number, giving you that extra punch at full power

Another option for you may be the new offering from Sigma, the EF610 DG Super, should retail around the same price as the 430 with similar specs to the 580

Let us know what you want from a flash and we will see if we can give better advice

[MarkChap]

This list suggests that your Sunpak should be OK

http://www.botzilla.com/photo/strobeVolts.html

However you will not have E-TTL

[Darth Matt]

Thanks Scotty72,

I'm getting back into SLR after being away for some time so I feel like I'm starting again.

It will probably be happy snaps and alot of testing to start with but I want to move into more serious photos fairly soon.

This is my first D-SLR so I went for the best kit I could afford at the moment.

I guess I'm thinking the same with the flash .... I don't want to pay 2/3rds for the 430EXII and be disappointed later.

[Darth Matt]

MarkChap,

Thanks for the link. I'll go and check it out.

[Scotty72]

I think the 580 is worth the extra.

I have it and its abilities are impressive.

I would hate to have bought the 430 then discovered it fell just short.