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DPChallenge Forums >> Photography Discussion >> Strobe Question
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10/03/2010 12:24:34 AM · #1
I'm watching this video:
//layersmagazine.com/comparing-umbrellas-and-softboxes.html

He gets good results using one light and a single modifier (umbrella, translucent umbrella or softbox in this case). I'm inspired.

One question though: He seems to be using strobes. But the light is continuous when he's demoing them. What's going on? Is the modeling light really that powerful? I feel like I'm missing something.

In any case, I think I'm ready to buy my first strobe. I have the budget for a single Einstein with softbox. I want to master (or just become proficient) working with one light and then perhaps add a second light and other accessories. So I want to start with good equipment.

Hopefully I'm not too far out of my head. Not for this reason anyway...
10/03/2010 01:41:32 AM · #2
Yes, the modeling light is that bright. It can be adjusted to be dimmer...but that really is pointless. The purpose of the modeling light is so you can focus the camera. Some people use the the modeling lights to "see" how the picture will look...but that is not an accurate way of judging your set-up.

Also, in case you don't know...the model lights briefly turn off when the strobe fires.

The Einstein seems to be a good one...but out of the three that were sent to me...only one worked. There has been a massive 100% recall on them from Alien Bees. I might suggest you just stick with the regular 1600 Alien Bee. The only benefits you get from the Einstein are: better light controls...and a wireless trigger system (which don't matter is you already have pocket wizards).

Anyway, hope that helps.
10/03/2010 12:05:20 PM · #3
Thank you, Josh. I'm sorry to hear this about the Einsteins. I know there was a lot of hype about them. Hopefully they get the kinks worked out.

Maybe I will reconsider one of the AB lights.
10/03/2010 04:00:04 PM · #4
There are some other benefits of an Einstein over a 1600... digital controls, more consistent light colour, faster t1/t5 duration, lower power output e.t.c. As far as I know the recall was over the PW interference and the heat build-up due to the holes in the reflector letting in heat to the circuits.

I also held out ordering an Einstein for a long time because of the bad track record they have developed on new products recently.... but I threw in an order before the $50 price rise a while back. Figured I might get one for christmas given the backlog (so if you need it soon then yeah a 1600 would be better).
10/03/2010 04:15:25 PM · #5
Actually, I think getting an Einstein now is a superb idea. I have four of the version 1 units and they work great. The "Huge recall" issue is primarily related to a potential overheating situation that can occur if the unit is pointing down, enclosed in a softbox, and the modeling lamp is left full on for a sufficient duration. They are now shipping only Version 2 units which resolve this problem. There was some issue relative to noise under certain circumstances when using Pocket Wizards, and that is also resolved in Version 2.

I have used all the AB's (400, 800, and 1600) and a single Einstein covers the range that would otherwise require you to have a 400, 800, and a 1600. I have the Version 1 units, have had no difficulties whatsoever with them, and my Version 1s will be replaced free of charge by Version 2s. But even my V1s are FAR SUPERIOR to a 1600. And if you are going to only own one strobe, you likely don't want a 1600 anyway. I would say get your order in for an Einstein.

Einsteins are competing in the same region as Elinchrome, Profoto, at a fraction of the price. The color temp stability is superb across the entire output range (superior to some of the higher priced products).

I bought an AB400 while my Einsteins were on backorder, thinking I would keep it as an extra unit when I got the Einsteins. As soon as I actually used my Einsteins, I just sent my AB400 back (60 day no questions asked returns).

PM me if you want to talk more about it, or we could do a phone thing. It is a LOT to type :-)
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