Using 250w Modeling Bulb With AB B-800

[nitekatt2006]

Hey shooters. I have 2 AlienBees B-800 monolights that have worked very well for headshots/fashion and jewelry. Colors are right on and I have to do very little PS post work and get accurate color from my Canon 10D. The only limitation these lights have IMHO, is the 150w modeling light bulbs. Depending on ambient light, sometimes there isn't enough output from the modeling lights to autofocus my lenses on the subject. The AB website states in the FAQ, that although not recommended, that 250w modeling light bulbs can be used as long as the lights aren't kept burning too long. Has anyone here tried out 250w bulbs on the AB? I'm using umbrellas and the FAQ also state that softboxes may not keep air flow and cool down the lights enough. What would be the maximum time the lights could stay on and what brand of bulb is there available? Thanks for your response. katt

[TJPhotoGuy]

Actualy I think they come with 75 or 100w bulbs. I replaced mine with 150. 250 is not recommended from AB.

[SkipD]

DON'T use 250-watt lamps. You will risk overheating and damaging things. It will probably void your warranty if you have any problems.

Stick with the recommended halogen 150W lamps. Home Depot has them for WAY less than AB's price, by the way.

[nitekatt2006]

Yes, I'm using the 150w halogens which seems to be the highest recommended power. I would have gladly paid extra if there was an option on the Ab B-800's to be able to safely use 250w bulbs. Maybe in the future they will offer that option. katt