Looking for new flash

[netog]

Hi

I want to replace my Metz 36C-2 for a new automatic flash with control in manual mode.
I want to use this flash with my Fuji GF670 and my Polaroid Land 180, so it needs to have a PC connector too.
I think I like the Vivitar 285HV, it seems to have all I need.

Do you have any suggestions?

Thanks in advance,

 

[trythis]

Nikon sb28
Iso 3 to 8000
Manual down to 1/64
Built in bounce card, focus from 20mm to 85

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[Sirius Glass]

Look at the Nikon SB800 or SB8000

 

[M Carter]

The 285 is just a classic workhorse. I own a small mountain of speedotron packs and heads, but I still use one sort of duct-taped to an adapter where I can stick my Speedo reflectors when I need to stick a light in a corner or want a really low-powered grid head. It works automatically but no TTL, I used to get great exposures with E6 so it can be sussed out. Nowadays you could learn its ins and out with a DSLR in an afternoon. Simple, cheap, all over eBay, spare battery holders available cheap, can be powered externally.

Cons - I think only 4 steps of manual power. People say it's lower powered and recycles slower than modern flashes. Need a $5 adapter cable to use with PC sockets.

I don't know that the SB28 has a pc socket?? Thinking not, the SB600 doesn't, unsure.

Shot with the 285, Nikon N-90s, from a swaying de-icer. Ektachrome 320T, pushed 3 stops.

 

[Ken Nadvornick]

The 285HV is indeed a workhorse. I've used one myself for many years. However, you might also consider the Sunpak Auto 120J (older, discontinued version on the used market) or the current production 120J II.

Neither are as inexpensive as the Vivitar, so budgets do come into play. But I started with the 285HV on my GF670, then moved to a NOS 120J I found and would never go back.

More power (flash meter tested), better quality (softer) light, more power ratio increments, and give-or-take is in the same ballpark in size and weight. That last might be counter-intuitive, but I have held one in each hand. However, YMMV on that.

Best of luck with your decision.

Ken