Achiever Flashes, any good?

[MTAtech]

I was at a family event where I checked out my cousin's son's Canon 550EX. He uses it with his 10D as he's a semi-pro. He let me use it for the day and I really liked it. We all know the downside, it's $325 US.

I've seen the Achiever flashes in stores but have no idea if they have anything comparable for less wallet filler.

[ejwebb]

Did you find yourself using the manual controls on the 550 or did you use it mostly on auto? The 420EX is $150 cheaper and almost as powerful - but you lose the manual functions. It is also smaller and lighter and still gives you the Canon quality build and full compatibility with Canon gear. I would like to have the 550 but have been happy with my 420 so far. Just a thought...

[MTAtech]

I used it on auto. I liked the LCD display that the 420 lacks but it's less than half the price.

[MTAtech]

Does anyone have any comments about 3rd party flashes, like the Achiever brand?

[Cordell]

I have two Sigma DG Super 500 (it has to be the "DG" model to work flawless with digital cameras) and like them a lot. They can do everything the Canon 550 can do. They do have just a little less reach than the 550, but they cost only a little more than the 420. The Achiever cost the same once you add the hotshoe adapter, but there was not enough information in terms of anything it can do to compare it to the Canon so I didn't go with it.

The Sigma is a little less sturdy than the 550 and it does not have a place to plug an external battery pack. Other than that it compares very well to the 550. It has all the wireless and ETTL features and works with Canon brand flashes.

Beware though, the instruction manual is horrible! Although I hear that Canon's instructions are not all that good either.