Which Sigma flash?

[NordieBoy]

For a Canon 300D (and 20D in future).

Which of these...
Sigma EF-500 DG Super E-TTL II
Sigma EF-500 DG ST E-TTL

Would be best value if I'm only looking at the flash as a fill-flash for 3/4 and panning shots of mountain-bikes and motorcross.

[jjonsalt]

Which ever one is the cheapest, that way you waste less money.

[BottomBracket]

Which ever one is the cheapest, that way you waste less money.

Have you had any experience with either flash?

[Jamey S.]

Sigma EF-500 DG Super E-TTL II, more power and features. I don't shoot motocross, but I have shot dirt track racing. Flash isn't the most certain thing to worry about, but it can help if used properly. Wouldn't it be better to have too much power and turn it down then end up without enough, cause you can't really just turn it up.

[NordieBoy]

The power specs are the same for both though (50M at 105mm).
Same cycle time and # of shots as well.

The main difference I see that applies to me is the cheaper one is either 1/1 or 1/16th power and the Super has a lot more graduation right down to 1/128th.

Looks like both support E-TTL II.

[jjonsalt]

Have you had any experience with either flash?

Why do you ask?

[BottomBracket]

Why do you ask?

It would be nice if you can explain why these flashes are a waste of money, instead of posting a vacuous statement. Have you had a bad experience with it? If so, please share. I for one would like to know because I am thinking of getting another flash.

[jjonsalt]

I got a feeling, just a feeling, that you don't really want my opinion. You didn't ask why I feel this way but, "Have you had any experience with either flash?". Your question inplies that unless I have had 'hands on' experience with the Sigma flash my opinion is invalid. I ain't stepping into it with you.

[Curtis N]

Your question inplies that unless I have had 'hands on' experience with the Sigma flash my opinion is invalid.I wouldn't say it's invalid, but if you're going to trash a product it would be nice to know where your information is coming from. There are various websites that offer thorough, professional reviews of cameras, lenses and flash units. People post questions on forums to get others' opinions based on first-hand, "real life" experiences. We can get plenty of biased, second-hand gossip down at the local camera shop. Often times, a product is released with a few minor "bugs" that get mentioned in the initial reviews but are later fixed.

To the OP: You'll find many threads here filled with posts from people who are quite happy with their Sigma flash units, including me. Which one is right for you depends on your particular needs. Study the specifications carefully, and if there are specific terms you don't understand, feel free to ask specifically about those terms here.

[DavidEB]

I have the super, and recommend it. Here's why: better controls for full-manual use, high-speed sync, and wireless operation as both master and slave.

If you're absolutely sure that you will never do anything requiring these features, then get the cheaper unit. But at the very least, high-speed sync is pretty useful sometimes (as in using flash in a bright environment)

[BottomBracket]

Curtis, Dave, Jamey, thanks for the replies, I'm sure Nordie appreciates it as well. I am thinking about getting either the Sigma EF 500 or a Canon 580EX, as I have two 420EX's that need a master. Have you any experience with using a Canon flash as a slave to the Sigma's? Is it workable? Common sense would say that it is best to stick to one brand, but if it works I would be saving a bit. My wife thinks that I spend way too much on camera stuff!

[NordieBoy]

I picked up a cheap damaged (cracked lens) 540EZ and have discovered the potential for fill-flash and I think the Sigma Super DG looks like the best bet.

[Jamey S.]

Sorry bottombracket, I don't have any experience using the Canon flashes as slaves :( But i too would be curious to find out if it works.

[Curtis N]

I am thinking about getting either the Sigma EF 500 or a Canon 580EX, as I have two 420EX's that need a master. Have you any experience with using a Canon flash as a slave to the Sigma's? Is it workable? DavidEB shared his experiences with trying to mix brands in wireless E-TTL in this thread (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=169477).

While I love my Sigma, yours is one situation where buying the 580EX makes sense. Neither manufacturer gaurantees their unit to work with the other.

The wife/auditor problem is a topic for another thread. ;)

[cbock]

i've got the super. worked well on my 300D. still working well on my new 30d.