Lighting newb question: PC adapters for strobes

Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0L IS

09/16/2009 04:50:48 PM · #1

I have a couple of Vivitar flashes that I have been using with Wein optical triggers. I've been using my 430ex on the EOS350 to trigger the slaves. Now I have an EOS 20D, which has a pc socket. I've been looking on Adorama to find out what I need. What I want is just to be able to get my main flash off the camera when I want, and still trigger the slaves with the optical triggers.

I'm pretty sure what I need is simply a cable that plugs into the camera and a hotshoe adapter to go under the flash. Would prefer to use the 430EX on the sync cord if it will work, but I can also use one of the older generic Vivitars if needed. I'm a bit confused by all the various connectors and cables. What do I need?

LVicari

Canon EOS-50D

09/16/2009 07:52:12 PM · #2

It depends how far you want to move that 430. The sync cord might only stretch so far and it will limit you. You can get a Cactus V2 or similar and move that flash more freely. For the price of cords that you need get a transmitter/receiver to resolve your problem. Once you use the wireless you won't go back.

I bought my Cactus for 40 bucks and have since moved on to AB Cybersync.They are kickass!!
Next are the pocket wizards!

trevytrev

Canon EOS-5D

Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L USM

09/16/2009 07:59:51 PM · #3

Originally posted by LVicari:

I second the AB Cybersync's, the rock and are WAY cheaper than the Pocket Wizards.

eta:

check this site for sync cords other flash related items at a great deal and great customer service. Flash Zebra

Message edited by author 2009-09-16 20:01:21.

chromeydome

Nikon D7000

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED

09/16/2009 08:10:59 PM · #4

I third, treble, tritto (?) the AB Cybersync recommendations--LOVE mine and you can then slap your 430ex on a light stand or other more remote place without any wires to mess with.

AmeedEl-Ghoul

Canon EOS-5D Mark II

Tamron SP AF 28-75mm f/2.8 XR Di for Canon

09/16/2009 08:25:50 PM · #5

I fourth the Cybers,
I tried cable, to restricting after getting used to it and wanting to stretch my ability a bit,
Ebay triggers, they suck all the way, you get what you pay for, they keep burning misfiring and all sort of problems.
I upgraded to Cybersync, and I don't recall having a single misfire so far.
A part of the purchase is future planning, I advice against buying anything that might need an upgrade in the soon future.

Cybersycs cheep, reliable, and you can have a complete arsenal of them, I currently have 3, and can't be any happier :)
All the best Steve and bring on any questions.

09/16/2009 08:29:36 PM · #6

Thanks. I'll check those out.

Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0L IS

09/22/2009 11:22:05 AM · #7

Gadget Infinity appears to be the source of the cactus triggers, and they have a new V4 trigger out. Are they the source you folks got them from, or do you recommend elsewhere?

Where do I find the Cybersync's?

Message edited by author 2009-09-22 11:22:57.

LVicari

Canon EOS-50D

09/22/2009 11:55:32 AM · #8

Originally posted by Yo_Spiff:

AlienBees

Cybersyncs

Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM

09/22/2009 11:59:48 AM · #9

Danke!

marcusvdt

Canon EOS-5D Mark III

09/22/2009 02:25:31 PM · #10

What about this and these ???

LVicari

Canon EOS-50D

Canon EF 24-105mm f/4.0L IS

09/22/2009 10:52:46 PM · #11

Originally posted by marcusvdt:

What about this and these ???

Just make sure they sync to 1/250 sec. The cactus V2 triggers I had would only let me sync at 1/160th. Real limiting!

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8G ED VR II

09/22/2009 11:11:01 PM · #12

Originally posted by LVicari:

Just make sure they sync to 1/250 sec. The cactus V2 triggers I had would only let me sync at 1/160th. Real limiting!

Thanks for the info. I ordered a V4 kit and 1 extra receiver today. The V4 syncs to 1/500th. The price is right and I have heard enough from people who have them that those seemed like a fair bet. Thanks again for steering me in the right direction.

MattO

Nikon D4

09/22/2009 11:34:29 PM · #13

Originally posted by Yo_Spiff:

Originally posted by LVicari:
Just make sure they sync to 1/250 sec. The cactus V2 triggers I had would only let me sync at 1/160th. Real limiting!

Thanks for the info. I ordered a V4 kit and 1 extra receiver today. The V4 syncs to 1/500th. The price is right and I have heard enough from people who have them that those seemed like a fair bet. Thanks again for steering me in the right direction.

They will only sync to 1/500 with cameras that will sync that fast. You will be at 1/250th with the 20D as that is it's sync speed. I sure hope they work better for you then I ever got them to work. Most unreliable POS with a canon flash I have ever seen. Any off brand and it isn't an issue, but something about the canons they don't like. Even the newer versions say they work with them, but that was never my experience with them. I'm currently using the AB Cybersyncs as well.

Matt