Anyone have an opinion on the Elinchrom D-lites?

[Asmodeus]

I've been shooting with 3 580EX flash units as my lighting. While I'll probably still use those for a portable, easy to use setup, I've been thinking of getting the EL 20811 kit (as seen here: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/478440-REG/Elinchrom_EL_20811KIT_D_Lite2_2_Monolight_Kit.html )

Anyone have any experience? Or a similarly priced suggestion?

[shooterman]

I've only heard great things about them. They are what I would buy right now if funds allowed. From what I understand they are now shipping U.S. versions with fans, so make sure your dealer has newer ones with cooling fans if you go for them.

[TMR Design]

The Elinchchrom D-Lites are one of the most stable strobes around regardless of price. Yes they are considered to be entry level and yes they are made in India and yes the built quality is good but not the same as the more expensive Elinchrom's or the luminum chassis of a Hensel.

What the D-Lites offer (both D-Lite 2 and D-Lite 4) is extremely consistent power output from pop to pop, consistent color temperature, fast recycle times with fast durations, access to an excellent selection of modifers (I know, the modifiers are not inexpensive but third part products are available).

I highly recommend the Elinchrom D-Lites. I am currently testing a handful of studio strobes and portable flash units and the D-Lites are part of that testing. I'm sorry to say that those tests are taking longer than expected but real life sometimes takes me away from things like that. :D

I now own and use D-Lites as a direct result of these tests and as a more stable, cost effective alternative to Alien Bees. Originally I was all set to spend almost 3 times that amount and buy Hensels. Don't get me wrong. The Hensel's are outstanding but I had to go with the Elinchom's based on their performance.

[TMR Design]

I've only heard great things about them. They are what I would buy right now if funds allowed. From what I understand they are now shipping U.S. versions with fans, so make sure your dealer has newer ones with cooling fans if you go for them.

You are correct Randy. Both the D-Lite 2 and D-Lite 4 are now shipping in the US with cooling fans. I own them now and I can safely say that any issue of overheating from modeling lamps is nonexistent with these newer versions.

[dragulaz]

Anyone find it curious that the D-Lite4 kit is actually cheaper than the D-Lite2 kit, at least at B&H?

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=cart&A=details&Q=&sku=478443&is=REG

When I add to cart I get $849.50 for the D-Lite4 and $878.50 for the D-Lite2

Is there something that I'm missing?

[TMR Design]

According to that link, the D-Lite 4 kit is $900.

[dragulaz]

According to that link, the D-Lite 4 kit is $900.

If you add to cart it goes down. At least it does for me, to $849.

Just seems odd to me that the prices would be even close, considering the individual D-lite2 is ~$95 more than the D-lite4.

[TMR Design]

I just checked. Yes, when you add it to your cart it goes down to $850, which indicates there is some sort promotion or overstock. Although it's great, be careful of the extra power if you don't need it. It can be a nuisance to have to reduce power mechanically or with ND's at times.

[dragulaz]

I just checked. Yes, when you add it to your cart it goes down to $850, which indicates there is some sort promotion or overstock. Although it's great, be careful of the extra power if you don't need it. It can be a nuisance to have to reduce power mechanically or with ND's at times.

Would they be comparable in output to AB 800's? I wouldn't want anything more powerful.

You don't think it's possible that these are leftover kits with the older non-fan version of the D-lite do you?

[TMR Design]

The thing I like about the D-Lites is that for my space (and most small studios) the D-Lite 2's are perfect. An Alien Bees B400 is 160ws. The B800 is 320ws. A D-Lite 2 is 200ws and the D-Lite 4 is 400ws.

I find the D-Lite 2 to be a much better power level than the B800 was and I have all the control I want. I can shoot wider for less depth of field or stop down and I can still create a background that is white with no detail. If you have your main and/or fill and/or hair lights as D-Lite 2's and you find that the 200ws is not enough to light a full background or you don't quite have the power you can always add a D-Lite 4 or another D-Lite 2 as a back light. Even with a D-Lite 4 you don't have to be concerned with WYS IWYG modeling lights as long as you're modeling the subject accurately. I find the modeling light on the back light never really represents what it's going to look like so once I have my power level set on the background I usually turn off the modeling light. In a small studio I don't think you're going to have trouble getting white with no detail from a kit made up of D-Lite 2's.

Honestly, I can go on and on about these lights. Not just because I own them but because I've tested them so thoroughly and put them through their paces.

The only thing that should always be mentioned is that the umbrella holders built into the strobe will only accommodate the thinner 7mm umbrella shaft, so if you plan on getting the strobes outside of the kit and you're going to use umbrellas you either need the 7mm shaft or just mount the strobe on a standard umbrella bracket and use any umbrella you want.

Photek is one company in particular that makes devices like the Softlighter with the standard or 7mm shaft.

[aia21]

Hi Bret,

Anything is possible... The only way you can know for sure whether your order from B&H would give you D-Lites with or without fans is to ask B&H. Just give them a call and I am sure they will be able to tell you! Or send them an email and they will tell you...

Best regards,

Anton

[TMR Design]

Hi Bret,

Anything is possible... The only way you can know for sure whether your order from B&H would give you D-Lites with or without fans is to ask B&H. Just give them a call and I am sure they will be able to tell you! Or send them an email and they will tell you...

Best regards,

Anton

Anton,

There is no question about getting fans in the US. That is how they're built. The only units without fans are those sold outside of the US. It's not an option.

[aia21]

Hi Robert,

Thank you for the correction! :) Here in the UK it is definitely not necessarily so as I have now inquired about two D-Lite2 sets on eBay and both answered that they do not have fans... And the two UK companies that sell the D-Lites (warehouseexpress and the flash centre) have not yet replied to my emailed question as to whether the ones they sell have fans or not...

Makes me wonder whether I should buy from B&H and pay for the horrendous shipping charges (more than $150!) and VAT (17.5% on top of total purchase price including shipping) in the UK so I can be sure to get the version with the fans... But that will end up costing me twice as much as buying them locally which doesn't sound like a good idea!

Best regards,

Anton

[steveathome]

Anton (aia21),

I'd hang on a while if I were you, Elinchrom may be announcing the new fan cooled D-Lites at the next photo exhibition at the end of this month. Nothing is certain, but I am sure they are considering it.

Might be best to give "The Flash Centre" a phone call, I believe they are the main importers of Elinchrom in the UK.

Edit:
an email I received from Elinchrom.......

Dear Stephen

Fan-cooled D-Lites are actually only shippeed or will be shipped into
countries / areas where the units may suffer from high ambient temperatures.
It might be a serial feature in the future, but the decision has not been taken yet.

The D-Lite 100 is on hold for some time.
The actual line kept us very busy, so we had to change our original plans and we must focus on
production capacity and availability of components, since they are specific like quality flash tubes which are
difficult to make and capacities are limited.

I hope this helps a little.
Kind Regards
Thomas

Elinca S.A.
Thomas H.W. Beinke
Deputy Director / Marketing
www.elinchrom.com

[amap]

If you look at the specifications of the D lite kits at B&H you will see that they have no fan cooling. You should phone them first. Maybe thats why the low price.

[TMR Design]

Again, the D-Lites at B&H are ALL fan cooled. It's been mentioned before that the description in B&H has not been changed and the spec states that they are not fan cooled. I checked and ordered mine from them.

You don't have to call them or check and most of the time unless the sales person knows about the change they're going to read the spec from the computer. The salesman are not familiar with everything and every change made.

If you don't believe me then by all mean check for yourself but I've done the homework and own the strobes. I've ordered 5 of the D-Lites recently and never specified or had to ask.

[gsewell]

|I have recently phoned the flash centre and they state the d-lite 2's are not fanned but the 4's are,,,, I did try another uk website and they said the 2's are fan cooled and can be distinguished from older stock non fan cooled units by stating they are the "D-Lite 2 mkII"

I too am looking to purchase this highly recommended entry level kit ;)

[TMR Design]

|I have recently phoned the flash centre and they state the d-lite 2's are not fanned but the 4's are,,,, I did try another uk website and they said the 2's are fan cooled and can be distinguished from older stock non fan cooled units by stating they are the "D-Lite 2 mkII"

I too am looking to purchase this highly recommended entry level kit ;)

I don't think you'll be disappointed. They are outstanding and performance easily makes up for the build quality found in most of the popular entry level strobes available. I make mention of this only because if you expect to find performance and really solid build quality in one package at this price point you're not going to see it. None of the inexpensive strobes with plastic housings have a better build than any other. Performance is where these strobes are superior. If you want really great build quality or an aluminum chassis you'll pay 2 to 3 times as much and sacrifice performance in the process.

[aia21]

I found the mkII ones (gsewell thanks for the tip on the mkII name!) at Studio Kit Direct (http://www.studiokitdirect.co.uk/category.php?cat=Lighting&sub=Elinchrom+Lighting).

Not only do they specifically specify they sell the fan cooled D-Lite2 and D-Lite4 but also they are the cheapest I have seen so far. A few days ago on eBay some non-fan cooled D-Lite2's went for more than these people are selling them for new! Only £338.40 for a D-Lite2 kit (that's US$676.80 or thereabouts) thus much cheaper than B&H in the US even. :D

Now I just have to convince my wife that we really need a set to take even better portraits of our three children... ;)

Best regards,

Anton

[gsewell]

Yes thats the place I was talking about and delivery is also cheap as chips, think it all works out at around £350!

[Asmodeus]

Yes thats the place I was talking about and delivery is also cheap as chips, think it all works out at around £350!


Wonder what they would cost delivered to the US?

I'm looking at $900 + tax or delivery right now. Their non-VAT price would be $585

[gsewell]

yeah although they are a very reliable unit just remember if the company does actually send it out to you, you need to know where you stand with the warranty side of things, not sure how it would work with the difference in voltage outputs between uk and us.

[dragulaz]

I just went to Adorama and noticed that the same D-Lite2 kit (Mfr. Part: 20811KIT) is going for $698.90 after adding to cart. That's about $180 cheaper than B&H's price ($878.50).

Can someone verify that I'm comparing apples to apples? It's rare to see that big of a price difference between these two retailers.

Adorama Link:
http://www.adorama.com/EL20811KIT.html

B&H Link:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=cart&A=details&Q=&sku=478440&is=REG

[TMR Design]

Hi Bret,

I just compared and I the only thing that's different is the light stands. Even after adding to the cart at B&H it's much higher and for the savings you could almost get a third light or other accessories.

EDIT: Make sure the D-Lites are not the older non-fan cooled strobes.

[dragulaz]

Interestingly, I just received the following response from B&H regarding which version of the D-Lite 4 they are selling. Perhaps they don't even know what they are selling.

I left a message with a representative at Adorama about the D-Lite 2, he's supposed to call me back.


*****************
We have worked diligently to answer your inquiry. Below you will find your answer. Please only reply to this message if you deem our answer to be unsatisfactory.

Subject: Question about Elinchrom D-Lite4


Our Answer: It would appear that B&H is currently selling the convection-cooled (no fan) version of the Elinchrom D-Lite4.
*****************

[TMR Design]

That information is incorrect. B&H absolutely has and stocks the fan cooled D-Lites. Whether or not Adorama has them is another story. No one at B&H is going to know because no one is actually looking at them. They're looking it up just as you or I could look on the site and it is going to say that it's not fan cooled. I got 1 D-Lite 4 and 2 D-Lite 2's and they are absolutely fan cooled and that is all they stock at this time.

[Asmodeus]

I just went to Adorama and noticed that the same D-Lite2 kit (Mfr. Part: 20811KIT) is going for $698.90 after adding to cart. That's about $180 cheaper than B&H's price ($878.50).

Can someone verify that I'm comparing apples to apples? It's rare to see that big of a price difference between these two retailers.

Adorama Link:
http://www.adorama.com/EL20811KIT.html

B&H Link:
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=cart&A=details&Q=&sku=478440&is=REG

That kit part number matches the part number in the elinchrom brochure the rep gave me last week.

[dragulaz]

Well, I'm gonna pull the trigger on the D-Lite2 kit from Adorama today. For under $700 it just seems like too good a deal to pass up. And plenty of power for my current room i believe.

I never heard back from their rep, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it's the fan cooled version.

Thanks to Robert and everyone else who contributed to this thread and others regarding this subject. You've all been a big help.

[TMR Design]

Sounds good Bret. Let us know. My understanding is that unless the retailer has old stock then anything they are stocking should be the current version with the cooling fan.

[Asmodeus]

I went to Allen's today to see if he would match the Adorama price. Apparently the new price list coming out March 1st reduces the price of the kit significantly and he called me back this afternoon to let me know that was the case and he could sell me the D-Lite 200 kit at the same price. It will be in stock in a couple of days.

[TMR Design]

Very cool. You guys won't be disappointed in the D-Lites. As I've been saying, if consistent exposure is what you're after and you don't want to have to set a custom white balance every time you adjust the power on the strobe, then you'll be very happy. The standard Elinchrom reflectors are of much higher quality than the Bees reflectors.

[shooterman]

I'm debating on getting 2 individual D-Lite 2 lights or the Calumet Genesis kit. I would prefer the Elinchrom's but my understanding is that the umbrella mount hole is 7mm. I have a brand new Softliter with the 8mm rod and my regular umbrellas are of course 8mm too. So do the Elinchrom D-Lites have a 7mm or 8mm hole? This would be a deal breaker for me. I couldn't find this info on B&H, Adorama, or Elinchrom's site.

thanks,
Randy

[TMR Design]

I'm debating on getting 2 individual D-Lite 2 lights or the Calumet Genesis kit. I would prefer the Elinchrom's but my understanding is that the umbrella mount hole is 7mm. I have a brand new Softliter with the 8mm rod and my regular umbrellas are of course 8mm too. So do the Elinchrom D-Lites have a 7mm or 8mm hole? This would be a deal breaker for me. I couldn't find this info on B&H, Adorama, or Elinchrom's site.

thanks,
Randy

Hi Randy,

Unfortunately the only down side of the Elinchrom strobes is that they do use the 7mm shaft and if you've already invested in umbrella-like devices I agree that it could be a deal breaker. There are a few solutions. The first is the obvious one... replace the SoftLighter and umbrellas with 7mm versions. Elinchrom, Lastolite and Photek seem to be the manufacturers with 7mm umbrellas.

Other than that you can place the strobe on top of an umbrella bracket as you would a flash. This will allow for any umbrella or SoftLighter to be used and lets you direct the strobe into the center of the umbrella.

I placed consistency and performance over everything when selecting the Elinchrom's and only had 1 standard umbrella, which is now only going to be used with a Speedlight.

Sadly, there is no adapter or convenient way to use standard umbrellas with Elinchrom's.

[shooterman]

Hi Randy,

Unfortunately the only down side of the Elinchrom strobes is that they do use the 7mm shaft and if you've already invested in umbrella-like devices I agree that it could be a deal breaker. There are a few solutions. The first is the obvious one... replace the SoftLighter and umbrellas with 7mm versions. Elinchrom, Lastolite and Photek seem to be the manufacturers with 7mm umbrellas.

Other than that you can place the strobe on top of an umbrella bracket as you would a flash. This will allow for any umbrella or SoftLighter to be used and lets you direct the strobe into the center of the umbrella.

I placed consistency and performance over everything when selecting the Elinchrom's and only had 1 standard umbrella, which is now only going to be used with a Speedlight.

Sadly, there is no adapter or convenient way to use standard umbrellas with Elinchrom's.Thanks for the reply Robert.
I would then use the tilt mechanism on the D-Lite to center it in the umbrella or Softliter? If so I could live with that.

[TMR Design]

Thanks for the reply Robert.
I would then use the tilt mechanism on the D-Lite to center it in the umbrella or Softliter? If so I could live with that.

Yup! The Elinchrom tilt adjustment centers the strobe in the umbrella and the umbrella bracket then tilts the strobe and umbrella together.

Depending on which umbrella bracket you own or will buy, some of them get the strobe much closer to the umbrella than others.

One last thing to think about is that if you buy Elinchrom D-Lites by themselves you don't get reflectors. If you're using the strobe on an umbrella bracket then you don't need the umbrella reflector, but if you want standard reflectors or grid reflectors you do have to buy them separately. The upside of getting the kit is that I believe they come with the standard reflector which you can use with or without umbrellas.

[shooterman]

Yup! The Elinchrom tilt adjustment centers the strobe in the umbrella and the umbrella bracket then tilts the strobe and umbrella together.

Depending on which umbrella bracket you own or will buy, some of them get the strobe much closer to the umbrella than others.

One last thing to think about is that if you buy Elinchrom D-Lites by themselves you don't get reflectors. If you're using the strobe on an umbrella bracket then you don't need the umbrella reflector, but if you want standard reflectors or grid reflectors you do have to buy them separately. The upside of getting the kit is that I believe they come with the standard reflector which you can use with or without umbrellas.
Oh crap, didn't think about that. Thanks for letting me know. I felt I didn't need the stands and softboxes and wanted to save money on the individual lights instead of the kit. Now i have more thinking to do.
Thanks!

[TMR Design]

Oh crap, didn't think about that. Thanks for letting me know. I felt I didn't need the stands and softboxes and wanted to save money on the individual lights instead of the kit. Now i have more thinking to do.
Thanks!

Many of the higher end strobes and all the Elinchrom's come without a reflector. They don't know whether you're going to use umbrellas or softboxes, or if you need wide angle reflectors, or high efficiency.

[shooterman]

I want to also use my diffusion panels so I would need reflectors for those. I think the reflectors are $48 each, so that all adds up to almost the cost of the kit.
I wonder if the rumor about a big price drop at the 1st of March that "asmodeous" mentioned is true?

[TMR Design]

Depends on which reflector you get Randy. You can get a standard umbrella reflector but it won't hold grids or accessories. You can get a 7" grid reflector that can be used with any 7" grids. You can also use clips to attach gels to the reflector. I find this to be the most versatile reflector unless you want to add barn doors. The cool thing is that you don't have to buy Elinchrom grids and you can even get the set of 4 grids from Alien Bees for $100 and they work perfectly in the Elinchrom 7" reflector. There's an 8.25" reflector that will hold Elinchrom 8.25" grids (non-standard size so you have to use Elinchrom), gels and barn doors, and then there's a wide angle reflector. These reflectors range in price from about $43 to $55.

The accessories for the better strobes do cost more but when you compare an Elinchrom reflector to the supplied 7" Alien Bees reflector the difference is obvious.

The wide angle reflector is ideal for using the strobe behind the diffusion panel and it will give you great coverage with even lighting.

[shooterman]

LOL, now I'm getting pissed off. I said heck with it and tried to order the D-Lite 2 kit just now from Adorama. Earlier today I was playing around with the shopping cart and I was getting a discount price of $698.00. Just now I tried to buy them and it wants me to pay $760. No more discount for me. :evil:
Screw it, I'll just wait until March to see if they go down in price.

[TMR Design]

LOL, now I'm getting pissed off. I said heck with it and tried to order the D-Lite 2 kit just now from Adorama. Earlier today I was playing around with the shopping cart and I was getting a discount price of $698.00. Just now I tried to buy them and it wants me to pay $760. No more discount for me. :evil:
Screw it, I'll just wait until March to see if they go down in price.

As a last ditch effort you might want to try giving them a call tomorrow or Sunday and tell them you were trying to order online to get the discount and your browser was on the fritz or the site wouldn't load (something to that effect) and see if they'll take your order and honor the price. You never know.

[shooterman]

Weird, now it's giving me a price of $725. LOL

[slivr]

I had the opportunity to put my hands on and fuss around with the D-Lites today at a local photo store. Having recently purchased Calumet's Genesis 400 kit I was interested in the quality distinctions between the two lines, and found the D-Lites to feel a little more "plastic-ee" and lightweight than the Genesis. The stands were a little more light weight, and if I understood correctly - the reflectors aren't included with the D-Lites either.

I don't want to rain on anyone's opinion of the D-Lite's. I've seen some outstanding images produced with them, and they have high recommendations from a number of forum readers here ... but for the money and quality I'm satisfied I made the right choice with the Genesis kit instead. Hopefully Robert's upcoming comparisans can give us all a more specific and detailed review of each, but the Genesis' rubberized housing, fan cooling, 8mm umbrella shaft, heavier stands, lightweight (but included) reflectors, and threaded-brass stand adapters gave them the leg up against D-Lites.

- Jason

[TMR Design]

Hi Jason,

There's no doubt that the entry level strobes from most of the manufacturers feel plasticy. Some more than others. The things you've cited that you feel are better about the Genesis strobes have nothing to do with consistency of output, color or overall performance.

I understand that cosmetics and build do make a difference but with studio lights my main concern was to find strobes that 'rocked' when it came to consistency. As of yet we haven't seen anything about the performance of the Genesis strobes. We've seen images of the lights and there's been lots of chatter about build, stands and accessories, controls and functions, modeling lights, and a host of other tidbits. None of that information has shown us how consistent they are and how they perform when exposure is critical.

Until I see some test results (assuming that happens before I do it myself) I still think the D-Lites are the better value. I tested them against many other popular strobes. I'm not saying that the Genesis strobes can't be as good as some of the others I've tested or as good as the Elinchrom's but we have yet to find that out.

[slivr]

Couldn't agree more. I'm interested in putting the Genesis through some controlled paces and measurements but have yet to spend any time on them (just like the others that have purchased 'em).

Best wishes
- Jason

[gsewell]

I found the mkII ones (gsewell thanks for the tip on the mkII name!) at Studio Kit Direct (http://www.studiokitdirect.co.uk/category.php?cat=Lighting&sub=Elinchrom+Lighting).

Not only do they specifically specify they sell the fan cooled D-Lite2 and D-Lite4 but also they are the cheapest I have seen so far. A few days ago on eBay some non-fan cooled D-Lite2's went for more than these people are selling them for new! Only £338.40 for a D-Lite2 kit (that's US$676.80 or thereabouts) thus much cheaper than B&H in the US even. :D

Now I just have to convince my wife that we really need a set to take even better portraits of our three children... ;)

Best regards,

Anton

Just received mine from studiokit direct, not opened the box yet but very fast delivery, I ordered online on thursday at 10:30 and it was here Friday 12:05 delivery charge was £8 something!
Ony gripe I have so far is I like to have original boxes incase I sell on at a later date and have found perfect condition boxes add value,,, these have been sent in no extra packaging so the elinchrom box has DHL stickers all over it and has been bashed while in transit... so If you are gonna order from there and like me want the box in good condition I suggest you ring him up and ask for extra packaging.... Update on the lights will follow.

[Kickstart]

I found the mkII ones (gsewell thanks for the tip on the mkII name!) at Studio Kit Direct (http://www.studiokitdirect.co.uk/category.php?cat=Lighting&sub=Elinchrom+Lighting).

Thanks for that. Cheaper that others and fairly local to me.

All the best

Keith

[gsewell]

be quick he only had a couple of units left at the mo;)

[Kickstart]

Hi

Trying to decide between the D-Lite 2 and the D-Lite 4. Will wander to Focus tomorrow and have a play.

I have some basic cheapy units at the moment (very basic, non adjustable light level) but want something a bit better and with some soft boxes.

All the best

Keith

[TMR Design]

Hi

Trying to decide between the D-Lite 2 and the D-Lite 4. Will wander to Focus tomorrow and have a play.

I have some basic cheapy units at the moment (very basic, non adjustable light level) but want something a bit better and with some soft boxes.

All the best

Keith

Hi Keith,

What size is your space, what kids of modifiers will you be using and what apertures do you need or want to shoot? Those factors will (or should) play a major role in your decision.

[Kickstart]

Hi

Space I will be shooting in is a large garage. Likely main subjects will be motorcycles. Aperture will depend on the effect I am after, but likely to be fairly wide much of the time.

My feeling is that with the higher power lights I can adjust them down. But I might be missing something there.

All the best

Keith

[klynam]

Anyone have an opinion on the Elinchrom D-lites?

Sure, I have an opinion on the D-Lites: they have a dorky print ad...:rolleyes::p

[tkoutdoor]

Hi Randy,

Unfortunately the only down side of the Elinchrom strobes is that they do use the 7mm shaft and if you've already invested in umbrella-like devices I agree that it could be a deal breaker. There are a few solutions. The first is the obvious one... replace the SoftLighter and umbrellas with 7mm versions. Elinchrom, Lastolite and Photek seem to be the manufacturers with 7mm umbrellas.

Other than that you can place the strobe on top of an umbrella bracket as you would a flash. This will allow for any umbrella or SoftLighter to be used and lets you direct the strobe into the center of the umbrella.

I placed consistency and performance over everything when selecting the Elinchrom's and only had 1 standard umbrella, which is now only going to be used with a Speedlight.

Sadly, there is no adapter or convenient way to use standard umbrellas with Elinchrom's.If I understand the problem correctly the D-Lite umbrella holder wants you to have 7mm shafts. Am I missing something or is this just a DIY project. I presume the standard size shaft is larger. I own a drill with bits and a file to reshape the taper. Wouldn't that work? I've had to modify umbrella holders before with success for another problem, why not a little Manuel Labor? (pun intended) :-)

[TMR Design]

The umbrella holder is built in to the body of the D-Lite's and is designed to grab the rod of the umbrella with no set screw to tighten. I believe there are small rubber grips inside the opening. Assuming you could open up the shaft to accommodate the larger umbrella rod you'd have to figure out how to securely grab the rod and keep it in place. You'd also have to be very careful because there isn't much excess material surrounding the shaft and you could weaken the mount and potentially break it.

I'm not saying it can't be done but I would advise against it. Also, if you ever plan on selling the strobes, I'm not sure a potential buyer would see the mod as an upgrade instead of seeing it as something to lessen the value.

Other Elinchrom users may have solutions but I think the best solution is to either get Elinchrom, Photek or Lastolite umbrellas or use a small, low profile umbrella bracket.

Replacing umbrellas to accommodate the 7mm shaft is not always convenient but there are some inexpensive 7mm umbrellas (even Elinchrom makes a $20 umbrella) available, and the 7mm rod will work with any standard umbrella bracket or mount.

[DavidPhoto]

Robert,
Great thread. I dont know how I missed this before.
Have you tested the D-lite4's at low power levels? I'm also considering them and wonder whether the d-lite2's or 4's would be best for me. I will be using them in varying environments and sometimes the locations are larger rooms with high ceilings or even outside. So Im wondering how the 4's work at lower power levels.

also, how is the build quality of the d-lites in general? Do they feel cheap? Will they hold up to a lot of set-up and tear down? Are they light?
Does the kit come with a light bag and is it decent enough?

[TMR Design]

Hi David,

I have tested across the whole power range and both the D-Lite 2 and 4 are just as consistent at minimum power as at maximum.

Since right now there's a lot of testing and comparison of strobes I'm going to leave the Hensel Integra 500 out of the test and publish the results from the others. Since I already know I'll be testing others I'll just include the Hensel in with those in the next batch.

I'll try to have that posted within the next day or 2.

[DavidPhoto]

the only reviews I could find remarked on the lack of a fan and said that they are not up to the duty of the higher level products - for example taking a bunch of quick shots of a model changing poses.
Does the fan in the newer models change that at all? Are they up to the task of shooting a model or a mess of wedding or event portraits?

[Kickstart]

Hi

I bought a D-Lite 4 kit today at Focus. There are fans on the flash units.

Now just need to get the soft boxes together. Any hints?

All the best

Keith

[TMR Design]

HI David,

Every dealer in the US should have the newer fan cooled units and they are slowly making their way to the UK. I have the fan cooled units and I use the modeling lights at full power, keeping them on for long periods and they never even get warm.

In terms of them being the same quality as the BX or RX series, they use almost the exact same circuitry to control power and keep them stable. The more expensive units are more robust and will interface with their remote control system and some other goodies.

I don't know how many pops you do at a time or what the interval is between them but I just did a shoot the other day with the D-Lite's. They performed flawlessly.

Generally speaking I give models the freedom to move and strike poses in a natural way instead of always being posed. I wasn't limited and never had to wait for recycling. Obviously you can't fire bursts but you can fire several successive shots without any problem.

[DavidPhoto]

thanks - gives me something to think about for sure

[transcend]

I went to Allen's today to see if he would match the Adorama price. Apparently the new price list coming out March 1st reduces the price of the kit significantly and he called me back this afternoon to let me know that was the case and he could sell me the D-Lite 200 kit at the same price. It will be in stock in a couple of days.

I have been waiting on some rangers from adorama for over a month. One big elinchrom shipment came in last month, next one is schedule for the 3rd week of March I was told. Just a heads up.

[dragulaz]

I received my D-Lite 2 kit from adorama today. Unless the fans are really well hidden, these are the old units. Also no reflectors, but I had a feeling that might be the case since they came with softboxes. Just got them unpacked. Haven't really had a chance to play yet.

[TMR Design]

I received my D-Lite 2 kit from adorama today. Unless the fans are really well hidden, these are the old units. Also no reflectors, but I had a feeling that might be the case since they came with softboxes. Just got them unpacked. Haven't really had a chance to play yet.

Get them to order or get the fan cooled ones and swap them out.

[shooterman]

I received my D-Lite 2 kit from adorama today. Unless the fans are really well hidden, these are the old units. Also no reflectors, but I had a feeling that might be the case since they came with softboxes. Just got them unpacked. Haven't really had a chance to play yet.Can you plug them in real quick and see if you hear a sound of a fan? I was planning on ordering the D-Lite 2 kit from Adorama but if they don't have the new kits with fans, then screw that, I'm not getting them.
Thanks

[TMR Design]

Can you plug them in real quick and see if you hear a sound of a fan? I was planning on ordering the D-Lite 2 kit from Adorama but if they don't have the new kits with fans, then screw that, I'm not getting them.
Thanks

You can tell by just looking underneath. There is a plastic grill and you can hear and feel the fan. It's obvious and you don't have to go hunting for it. If there is a whirring sound it's got a fan.

[TMR Design]

I received my D-Lite 2 kit from adorama today. Unless the fans are really well hidden, these are the old units. Also no reflectors, but I had a feeling that might be the case since they came with softboxes. Just got them unpacked. Haven't really had a chance to play yet.

This is why I said to make sure. I know you decided to take a chance but I'm sure that some of the great pricing is for the older ones that some retailers have to clear out. I know that B&H is stocking the units with fans despite the fact that they haven't updated the specs online.

I got my D-Lite 2's and a D-Lite 4 from B&H and all had the fans.

[shooterman]

Yeah, my guess is that is why Adorama is selling the D-Lite 2 kit for approx $150.00 less than B&H.
Oh well, I guess I didn't want them after all.

[dragulaz]

Definitely no fans. It was impossible to make sure, no one I left messages for at Adorama called back. Oh well, at least now we know. The most irritating thing is that neither company seemed to know what it was they were selling. Oh well, I'm just gonna use them til they burn up. :)

[sdipirro]

I'm wondering if someone can provide a quick-and-dirty explanation of the differences between the RX, BX, and D-Lite versions of the Elinchrom monolights. I understand the D-Lite have an economy housing, but feature wise, what are the differences between these lines? Thanks.

[shooterman]

I'm wondering if someone can provide a quick-and-dirty explanation of the differences between the RX, BX, and D-Lite versions of the Elinchrom monolights. I understand the D-Lite have an economy housing, but feature wise, what are the differences between these lines? Thanks.sdipirro,
Here is the Elinchrom spec that compares the different models.

http://www.elinchrom.com/products/specifications/specifications.pdf

[gsewell]

In the UK one online retailer are calling the D-LITE2 kit thats fan cooled the "MKII" just got mine at the weekend and its defo got the fan, you can hear it and also mentioned previously the fan grills are underneath.

[shooterman]

Looks like B&H just lowered their price on the D-Lite 2 kit to $698.95. You have to add it to the cart to see the reduced price. I called them last week and asked them to price match Adorama's price of $725 and they wouldn't do it. I decided to wait out until this week the first of March to see if B&H came down and they did. So that's what I just ordered.

Can anyone tell me if the speed rings that come with the kit are permanently attached to the Portalite soft boxes or can they be used for other soft boxes also?

[TMR Design]

Congratulations Randy!

Unfortunately I can't answer your question about the supplied speed rings.

[fjgindy]

Looks like B&H just lowered their price on the D-Lite 2 kit to $698.95. You have to add it to the cart to see the reduced price. I called them last week and asked them to price match Adorama's price of $725 and they wouldn't do it. I decided to wait out until this week the first of March to see if B&H came down and they did. So that's what I just ordered.

Looks like they lowered the price on all D-lite products. The D-lite 2 head is now $286.95 down from $299.

[DavidZvi]

Robert, do the heads look the same? Fan and Fanless?

[TMR Design]

Hi David,

The newer fan cooled D-Lites are easily identified by the round vented grill on the bottom of the unit.

[DavidZvi]

Looks like you have a different reflector on that than standard. Or at least than the ones shown on the elinchrom site.

The D-Lites are very nice, I tried them when I was looking for lights last year. There was nothing wrong with them, the Dyna Lite Twinkles were just a better fit for me.

[TMR Design]

Hi David,

That is the 7" grid reflector you see there. The standard is an umbrella reflector and I chose not to get those since I really don't use umbrellas. I got the Photoflex speed ring for Elinchrom heads and the Elinchrom 7" grid reflector to make use of the set of 7" grids I already owned. I'm also going to get the 8.25" reflector because that is the reflector that is made to hold other accessories, such as gel/filter holders, barn doors, snoots, etc.

[dragulaz]

Can anyone tell me if the speed rings that come with the kit are permanently attached to the Portalite soft boxes or can they be used for other soft boxes also?

No sir, they all came separate. The portalites had to be assembled. The speedring, connecting rods, softbox body, and diffusion panel were all separate pieces.

If I am not mistaken it's the Rotalux softboxes that come in one piece. At least in the rotalux demo that I saw in the video that came with the lighting kit, it appeared that the whole unit just sort of unfolds.

My only complaint with the Portalite softboxes is that there is no inner diffusion panel. But, I haven't used them enough yet to know whether it really matters.

[TMR Design]

If I am not mistaken it's the Rotalux softboxes that come in one piece. At least in the rotalux demo that I saw in the video that came with the lighting kit, it appeared that the whole unit just sort of unfolds.

Correct. They actually fold up like umbrellas.

My only complaint with the Portalite softboxes is that there is no inner diffusion panel. But, I haven't used them enough yet to know whether it really matters.

If you find you want or need a second layer of diffusion material you can always grab some nylon ripstop and velcro or attach it at the front of the box. You can play with how many layers and whether you want 100% coverage based on the hot spots and falloff from center to edge of the box.

[dragulaz]

Hi David,

That is the 7" grid reflector you see there. The standard is an umbrella reflector and I chose not to get those since I really don't use umbrellas. I got the Photoflex speed ring for Elinchrom heads and the Elinchrom 7" grid reflector to make use of the set of 7" grids I already owned. I'm also going to get the 8.25" reflector because that is the reflector that is made to hold other accessories, such as gel/filter holders, barn doors, snoots, etc.

I also noticed a kit that contains the 8.25" reflector and set of grids. I think that might be my next purchase.

[fjgindy]

Now that the D-Lites have fans, any idea if it's possible to safely replace the stock 100w modeling lamp with a 150w?

[TMR Design]

I also noticed a kit that contains the 8.25" reflector and set of grids. I think that might be my next purchase.

It's a good move. Elinchrom also makes a wide angle reflector which I believe has a 135 degree angle of coverage. It's very nice for lighting backgrounds.

[TMR Design]

Now that the D-Lites have fans, any idea if it's possible to safely replace the stock 100w modeling lamp with a 150w?

Hi Fred,

I've already been in contact with Elinchrom about this and I was told very simply that there is no replacement bulb of a higher wattage. Even though B&H has a bulb that indicates it is a compatible replacement Elinchrom doesn't recommend using it.

Even though we would all like 200 or 300 watt modeling lights, I would like to point out that there's no reason in the world why you can't model the face accurately and creatively with 100 watt modeling lights. Many people do it every day and I did it with my Alien Bees way before I thought of swapping up to higher wattages. High power modeling lights is, at times, more hype than anything, and many people realize this once they have 300 watt modeling lights and come to find out that they can't model the face any better than they were with 100 watt bulbs.

If you approach lighting intelligently you can easily model your subject's face or an entire scene with 100 watt modeling lights.

[DavidPhoto]

Somewhere in this thread someone said that the D-lite4 can only use a smaller softbox. I'm just wondering if that is true and why? Can it take a large softbox?

[shooterman]

OK, I just received my D-Lite 2 kit in the mail from B&H today. For those of you who are dead set on getting the kits with fans you may want to wait a month or so to let them flush out the old kits first. I took a chance and ordered from them hoping they would have the fans but no such luck. Mine don't have fans. And the customer sales people on the phones don't have a clue if they have fans or not, or so they say.
But on a good note, after letting them sit idle on the max power setting, so that the modeling light is at max, and firing them consistently for over an hour these things don't get hot enough for me to worry about. I probably won't send these back, but I do have 14 days or so(whatever their satisfaction return policy is) to see if I am happy.

[dragulaz]

OK, I just received my D-Lite 2 kit in the mail from B&H today. For those of you who are dead set on getting the kits with fans you may want to wait a month or so to let them flush out the old kits first. I took a chance and ordered from them hoping they would have the fans but no such luck. Mine don't have fans. And the customer sales people on the phones don't have a clue if they have fans or not, or so they say.
But on a good note, after letting them sit idle on the max power setting, so that the modeling light is at max, and firing them consistently for over an hour these things don't get hot enough for me to worry about. I probably won't send these back, but I do have 14 days or so(whatever their satisfaction return policy is) to see if I am happy.

Apparently B&H hasn't learned the first in first out inventory method either.

Anyway, it's the same conclusion I came to. Even with the little portalite softboxes I haven't noticed a significant heat buildup. Decided the hassle of returning them wasn't worth the gain. Loving them so far!

[TMR Design]

Wow, I'm shocked Randy. That is so odd that I ordered 3 D-Lites in 2 separate orders and all 3 had the fans. They must be mixed in and indistinguishable to the sales/stock people. There isn't even a code or slight difference in model/serial numbers to differentiate so I think you're right in saying that they need to flush old stock.

Personally I would send those back for the others and if you don't already know it, B&H will pay the shipping if the item is defective or you received the wrong item, so you can get them to issue the RMA, send you the UPS prepaid return label and when you fill out the form just tell them you received the wrong item and include a note indicating that they should exchange them for the same item but they must have fans.

I don't think that will necessarily ensure you'll get the fans but at least it went on record.

[TMR Design]

Apparently B&H hasn't learned the first in first out inventory method either.

Anyway, it's the same conclusion I came to. Even with the little portalite softboxes I haven't noticed a significant heat buildup. Decided the hassle of returning them wasn't worth the gain. Loving them so far!

Hi Bret,

Glad to hear you're liking the D-Lites. I don't think B&H even has a clue that there are different versions so the stock is just mixed up but I agree that they should be unloading old stock before new.

[shooterman]

Apparently B&H hasn't learned the first in first out inventory method either.

Anyway, it's the same conclusion I came to. Even with the little portalite softboxes I haven't noticed a significant heat buildup. Decided the hassle of returning them wasn't worth the gain. Loving them so far!Yeah, I've had my Portalite softboxes on the whole time and it just doesn't seem to get that hot. Warm, but certainly not hot.

[shooterman]

Hi Robert,

The kit comes in a plain white box with just a part number and contents of the box. I'm sure there is no way for them to determine if what they send has fans or not. If I had paid $900 or whatever the original price was I would definately send them back but since I paid $698.95 for them I'm not sure if I will hassle with sending them back.

Edit: Haha, as I finished typing my last sentence the light shut down with the E.2 failure code. Hehe, I wonder how long it will take for it to cool down.
I did have it sitting on max power for about two hours.

Edit #2: LOL, it just powered back up on it's own. Took about 2 minutes for it to cool down.

Maybe I'll be sending them back. Then again I don't see myself using them in this fashion at full power for 2 hours straight. We'll see.

[TMR Design]

Ahhh ok then it must be the kits that are not being changed or swapped out. The individual lights do have the fans and that must be why mine have them.

I wonder how long until the kits will be sold with the fan cooled units. I bet that is the whole problem. It's those damm kits.! LOLOL

[dragulaz]

I wonder how long until the kits will be sold with the fan cooled units. I bet that is the whole problem. It's those damm kits.! LOLOL

Sure, you can laugh...you've got the fan cooled version!! ;)

[shooterman]

Well I know that the protection circuitry works, LOL. When the light shut down and gave me the failure code the LED's stayed on and then the light powered back up within a minute or two. I don't think there is any chance of burning the light up due to overheating.

And maybe I'm imagining things but the light quality of the D-Lite looks much better than my AB. No pink tint at all, LOL.

[TMR Design]

And maybe I'm imagining things but the light quality of the D-Lite looks much better than my AB. No pink tint at all, LOL.

You'll surely get argument from others but not me. The quality and consistency of the light is far superior with a smaller window of color shift. It's not so much that other strobes have no shift but rather that the window of color temperature from the Bees reaches higher (warmer) temperatures and therefore begins to appear magenta/pink. So far, all my tests don't show any other strobe operating at those temperatures, regardless of the fact the PCB states they operate at 5600K. I've never seen a Bee that actually did operate at that temperature especially at lower power levels.

[shooterman]

I also have absolutely no problem firing the D-Lites at max sync speed with the ebay triggers(the ones with the 1/4 plug), which is 1/250 s for my 30D.

[TMR Design]

Randy,

Have you looked carefully at the image to make sure there isn't a hint of shutter curtain. Sometimes it's hard to see unless you also take an image at something like 1/125 to be safe, and then advancing the shutter speed until you begin to see it.

Are you sure you're not getting any curtain at 1/250 ?

[shooterman]

I don't see any, but I'll increment the shutter speed tomorrow afternoon and check more thoroughly.

[slimninj4]

TMR will my Amvona softbox work on these elinchrom D-lites? I see the Genesis kits will need the Elinchrom speed ring for them. This Dlite kit ocmes with speed rings already since there are two softboxes included.

[TMR Design]

Hi slimninj4,

Unfortunately I've never seen, used or researched the Amvona boxes and speedrings so I can't comment on compatibility.

I believe there are some other posters in this thread that use Amvona boxes.

[fjgindy]

Amvona softboxes/octaboxes come with S-type speedrings. Rods for the boxes look like they measure 3/16" and speedring holes measure 5/16":

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v482/Tonesearch/Amvonaspeedring1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v482/Tonesearch/Amvonaspeedring3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v482/Tonesearch/Amvonaspeedring2.jpg

[FlashZebra]

Amvona softboxes/octaboxes come with S-type speedrings. Rods for the boxes look like they measure 3/16" and speedring holes measure 5/16":

fjgindy,

When did you wander in?

Enjoy! Lon

[shooterman]

Here is a real quick shot the wife and I did last night with the D-Lites. I love these lights. With my Bee I always had to adjust the color temp slider in Lightroom to get rid of the pink cast in every single shot. So far with the Elinchrom's I haven't even touched the color temp slider. I think the color that the D-Lites produce are superb.
This was just a quick shot we threw together, so no CC is necessary.

http://members.cox.net/sinbad/IMG_7071-Edit.jpg

[dragulaz]

Very nice Randy. I'm loving the quality of light from these as well.

BTW, I've got two more B800's available for sale if anyone is interested. :)

[fjgindy]

fjgindy,

When did you wander in?

Enjoy! Lon


Hehe..heya Lon. Been here maybe a month.
Mostly lurkin' and learnin'....;)

[shooterman]

Thanks Bret!

[TMR Design]

I gotta tell you guys. I'm happy to see you loving the D-Lites. They really are little gems.

[RichNY]

Robert- I'm beginning to feel like all the work testing the various strobes and tiresome posts we made about the color temperature issues with the Alien Bees is finally having a positive effect. When we started out I have to admit it felt like I was banging my head against the wall where people were more interested in defending Alien Bees than taking an honest look at the results.

It does feel good to see that the time we put in has actually helped people to choose the lights that best meet their needs for accurate color and streamlined workflow.

I was happy to be the one to stop being politically correct and state that the 'emperor had no clothes' and to finance this research but Robert deserves the vast majority of the credit for putting in an incredible amount of extra time in further testing all of the strobes beyond the initial testing in my studio. I thank you for all of your effort and I know that quite a few forum members have greatly benefited from your incredible time contribution.

[magicmikey]

Robert- I'm beginning to feel like all the work testing the various strobes and tiresome posts we made about the color temperature issues with the Alien Bees is finally having a positive effect. When we started out I have to admit it felt like I was banging my head against the wall where people were more interested in defending Alien Bees than taking an honest look at the results.

It does feel good to see that the time we put in has actually helped people to choose the lights that best meet their needs for accurate color and streamlined workflow.

I was happy to be the one to stop being politically correct and state that the 'emperor had no clothes' and to finance this research but Robert deserves the vast majority of the credit for putting in an incredible amount of extra time in further testing all of the strobes beyond the initial testing in my studio. I thank you for all of your effort and I know that quite a few forum members have greatly benefited from your incredible time contribution.

It sure would be nice to actually see those results. I've been hearing about them for a long time now.

Michael

[TMR Design]

Hi Michael,

Yes, you've been hearing about it for a while and it's finally happening. I'll be posting Part I with pop to pop consistency test sometime tomorrow and then the color temperature results in Part II within a few days.

[weegee]

Was all set to buy Alien Bees and then stumbled on this thread. God these forums make me spend money.

Okay, please help me.

Looking at doing some low key lighting portraits as a hobby. Mostly "creative" head and bust shots, maybe some maternity stuff. So lighting is going to be minimal and probably tight. Room size is about 12x15 with 9 foot ceilings.

From the research I've done, it seems like the AB 400's or Dlite 2s would probably do the trick. Leaning more towards the Dlite because of the kit price and overall postive comments. But if the D4s can be toned down enough for low key lighting, I wouldn't mind the extra juice in case I ever need it. For what I'm trying to do, the soft boxes that come with the kit seem to be a decent size as well, since I'm not doing big family portraits, full length body, etc. How is the quality of the light stands and the soft boxes?

Am I on the right track here? Can anyone else provide any feedback. Very new to studio lighting, so keep it simple please.

[slimninj4]

Amvona softboxes/octaboxes come with S-type speedrings. Rods for the boxes look like they measure 3/16" and speedring holes measure 5/16":


Yes this is the speed ring that I have. But will this work with the Dlites? Can I get the inner adapter from adorama or bh and use the outside ring on the Amvona softboxes?

[sdipirro]

So Rich and Robert, a while back you guys steered me away from the AB's I was considering and towards a Hensel with Photoflex octabox. Believe it or not, I still haven't purchased anything. Besides continuing to research this, I picked up some studio items I knew I'd need, regardless of the lights and modifiers I chose. Plus, I've been trying to recover from the shock of what I own in taxes before buying anything else! So now I'm leaning towards the D-lites. The B&H kit with two D-lites and Elinchrom softboxes looks like a great starter kit. I'm weighing that against getting a single D-lite with Photoflex octabox and reflectors to start. I'm wondering what you guys think about the D-lite/Photoflex medium Octabox single-light configuration for starters (and if that combination would work very well) versus the 2 D-lite kit with Elinchrom softboxes from B&H. Thanks.

[TMR Design]

The D-Lites are an excellent choice. If you've been following along here, we've discovered that the kits that B&H is selling may or may not still be the units that are not fan cooled. I've found that if you buy them singly and not in the kit that you get the newer units with the fans. If this is not a concern for you then I think the kit is a great deal even if you plan on upgrading the softboxes or accessories. At least you have a whole kit that's all ready to start shooting. Of course if you don't need or want what's offered in the kit then getting the lights and accessories you need separately makes sense.

Regarding the Hensel's. My opinion of them has not changed. They are excellent strobes with outstanding build. Unfortunately they did not make it into the testing I just conducted but in the brief time I used them I found them to be less consistent than the Elinchrom D-Lite and less consistent than the Photogenic StudioMax III, which still makes them very consistent. Neither of those has nearly the build quality of the Hensel and there's a lot to be said for that especially if the gear needs to be durable and perhaps roadworthy.

[crazyskillz07]

I hate to do this. Normally I would read through the whole thread b4 asking a question but I have a lot of homework to get done tonight. I was considering some AB800's for shooting wrestling. Would the D-lite 4's do well for this?

[RichNY]

So Rich and Robert, a while back you guys steered me away from the AB's I was considering and towards a Hensel with Photoflex octabox. Believe it or not, I still haven't purchased anything. Besides continuing to research this, I picked up some studio items I knew I'd need, regardless of the lights and modifiers I chose. Plus, I've been trying to recover from the shock of what I own in taxes before buying anything else! So now I'm leaning towards the D-lites. The B&H kit with two D-lites and Elinchrom softboxes looks like a great starter kit. I'm weighing that against getting a single D-lite with Photoflex octabox and reflectors to start. I'm wondering what you guys think about the D-lite/Photoflex medium Octabox single-light configuration for starters (and if that combination would work very well) versus the 2 D-lite kit with Elinchrom softboxes from B&H. Thanks.

I REALLY like the Hensel's that I own but have since learned that that the D-lites are a better value. When it comes to modifiers if you are going to be doing head and shoulder and 3/4 length portraits then I think you can't beat the Photoflex 5' Octobox. IMO the two softboxes that come with the Elinchrom kit are too small for use as a main light for 3/4 portraits. I would pass on the Elinchrom kit with the small softboxes and cheap stands.

Personally I would get either a large softbox or 5' Octobox as my main light and then get a set of grids for my second strobe to use as a hair light or for use on the background (although you might like just using the reflector for the background also). That's just the way I would prioritize things and wouldn't purchase a second softbox until after you had a set of grids. A photoflex umbrella is also a very inexpensive additional light modifier.

Rather than getting the Elinchrom light stands you might want to consider the air cushioned Impact stands which are a very good value.

[kennykodak]

i use Elinchrom Micro's in studio and the Elinchrom Ranger for location. i think that it wont be long before location photographers will be totally battery powered. in both cases, studio and location, the light is consistant. the question then before us ladies and gentlemen is the modifier. kinda like choosing the right wine for an entree.

[sdipirro]

Thanks. That gives me a good starting point, then, as well as a growth path. If I started with 1 D-Lite and 5' Photoflex Octobox on an air-cushioned Impact stand for the main light and Photoflex reflectors on a second Impact stand with Litedisc holder, I should be able to do some interesting stuff with that. Then I could add a second D-Lite and grid later as a second step. Next I could add a boom for the main light and Lastolite triflector, assuming my wife hasn't killed me in my sleep by then!

Any issues with this Octobox on the D-Lite? The designated speedring works OK?

[sdipirro]

And one other question, if I may. Suppose I went with the single D-Lite setup to start. I know it has a built-in optical trigger. I have a 580EX currently. If I don't want any wires and this is indoor only, what are my best options for triggering the D-lite? Like I'm wondering if I should use the 580EX on the camera hotshoe or jump right into getting a couple of PW's and plan to add more as I add more lights...or maybe another option would be to get a stand and hotshoe adapter for the 580EX to use that as a hair/fill light and get a ST-E2 for the camera to trigger the 580EX, which would optically trigger the D-lite.

[slimninj4]

PW or can use the cactus lites or other ebay brands.

[TMR Design]

I've just published Part I (Output) of the test results.

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=469075

[shooterman]

On post #98 I stated that I had no problems syncing at 1/250 SS with my D-Lite2's. Well after doing a controlled test of blasting a white wall with the strobe, it looks like 1/160 is my max speed that I can safely shoot without getting black in the frame.

[TMR Design]

Hi Randy,

That's what I suspected. Obviously if you were shooting action or sports the D-Lites would not do the job because of sync speed and flash duration.

I chose to ignore that issue for now so I could have a set of excellent and consistent lights. If and when the time comes that I need location lighting for such events I'll worry about it them. Right now the performance and cost made getting the Elinchrom D-Lites a 'no-brainer'.

[shooterman]

Hi Robert,

Yes, right now I don't see myself shooting action or sports with strobes. Maybe in about 10 years if my son plays indoor high school sports, but I'll worry about that then. Shooting in a studio environment now at 1/160 isn't going to bother me one bit.

[TMR Design]

Right on, Randy ;)

[hawk911]

my question, since I need portable also- can these run off battery?

[TMR Design]

Hi Hawk,

I've never tried to use any of the strobes that have digital controls with batteries like the Vagabond or Tronix. I've never really gotten any definitive word about it because Paul Buff, understandably will not attempt to answer that and does not support third party strobes. The manufacturer of the strobe could tell you if you tell them exactly how you'll be powering the strobe.

I know you're inquiring about the D-Lites but if you want a great portable alternative that can be powered right from a Quantum Turbo battery you should check out the Photogenic StudioMax III. They make a 160ws and 320ws model and both are available in an AC/DC version. The unit has a Turbo connector on it and is supplied with a Turbo cable. All you need is the Photogenic or a Quantum Battery and you're looking at a lightweight, portable solution with studio strobe quality and power, and hundreds of pops.

Obviously it's not a great solution if it means buying extra strobes just to go portable but if your portable kit is going to be 1 strobe and reflector or other unpowered sources then it's an awesome solution.

[hawk911]

I'd want at least 2 lights, if not 3. I could use my speedlights as a BG light, but would like some decent output on location.

edit: I have a least 2 lights now. I just have to figure out how I'm going to light my backdrop efficiently.

[sdipirro]

I just received a single D-lite4 from B&H. As Robert said it would, the unit arrived with a built-in fan. I attached the D-lite4 to a medium Photoflex octobox as my main light and started testing. The modeling light works as advertised. The test button fires the flash. I connected a PW II to it and another to my camera, and the D-lite4 fires as expected. So far - so good. What didn't work is getting the D-lite4 to fire with the optical trigger. The room was on the dark side with the optical sensor of the light maybe a foot or two from a white wall. I had my 580EX mounted on the camera and expected its flash to trigger the D-lite4 flash. There's a button on the back, and I tried it in both positions. I tried it with and without a synch cable attached. I even tried pointing the camera flash right at the sensor. What was interesting was that I have the audible beep turned on, to let me know when the light is ready. I'd see the 580EX flash, and then I'd hear the beep...as if the optical sensor did "see" the flash but didn't trigger the D-lite4 flash. Am I doing something wrong here, or does it sound like a defective unit? I can work around the issue using PW's, but I'd kind of like to have this option.

[tiler65]

http://i32.photobucket.com/albums/d34/ardion-90/FamilyShoot-32-Edit.jpg

Straight out of the camera, no PP and hand held.

2 D-Lite4s both set at 45 deg left and right.

white bal taken from the background and set as a Cfn in camera.

THESE LIGHTS ROCK.

[bomzai]

2 D-Lite4s both set at 45 deg left and right.


Yes we can see that. :p


THESE LIGHTS ROCK.

That too :lol::lol::D

Congratulations on your new lights! ;)

[divinemethod]

In CANADA:

Vistek sells these WITHOUT the fans. SO i bought the 400BX kit from BH. When you dump in the shopping cart the price lowers to 1198. IMO. Better purchase over the D-Lites. and thats what I've done.

[TMR Design]

I just received a single D-lite4 from B&H. As Robert said it would, the unit arrived with a built-in fan. I attached the D-lite4 to a medium Photoflex octobox as my main light and started testing. The modeling light works as advertised. The test button fires the flash. I connected a PW II to it and another to my camera, and the D-lite4 fires as expected. So far - so good. What didn't work is getting the D-lite4 to fire with the optical trigger. The room was on the dark side with the optical sensor of the light maybe a foot or two from a white wall. I had my 580EX mounted on the camera and expected its flash to trigger the D-lite4 flash. There's a button on the back, and I tried it in both positions. I tried it with and without a synch cable attached. I even tried pointing the camera flash right at the sensor. What was interesting was that I have the audible beep turned on, to let me know when the light is ready. I'd see the 580EX flash, and then I'd hear the beep...as if the optical sensor did "see" the flash but didn't trigger the D-lite4 flash. Am I doing something wrong here, or does it sound like a defective unit? I can work around the issue using PW's, but I'd kind of like to have this option.

Hi sdipirro,

The optical slaves in the D-Lites are pretty responsive but like all optical triggers they must 'see' the light'. Test the optical trigger by firing a strobe right behind the other so there is no question as to whether it saw the light. When the optical trigger is on (green LED on the button is lit) it should fire when it sees another flash.

After you determine that the trigger is working then reposition the master strobe and see at what point the slave will not fire.

Let us know how that goes.

[hawk911]

I trigger my d-lites from 2 550ex units; 1 aimed at the BG and 1 trying to use as a hairlight. Never had a problem yet triggering the DLs.

[sdipirro]

OK, that's good to know. I'll try the experiment with the 580EX right behind the DL to see what happens. When I did something similar to this, I was standing behind the DL with my camera and flash attached, and I was depending on my 7-year-old to tell me if the DL flashed or not. But I can put my 580EX on a stand with PW attached to fire it remotely, while I'm standing in front of the DL to see for myself whether if flashes or not.

[akiwi]

Hi All.
I just stumbled on this thread. Did a quick skim read of all.
I have had the D-lite 4 kit since February 2005. I think I was on e of the first people to get one.
I do have overheating problems occasionally, particularly when popping rapidly at high power. Fans would be a help here.

I have used them pretty intensively over the last 2 years not had many problems. Quite early on the tightening lever on one broke off as I was tightening a 170 cm octobox too tight.
Overheating is also a bit of a problem of late.
I need to do some tests, because in my last 2 shootings I had problems triggering one light with my skyport radio triggers.

Robert has often mentioned the advantages of the ights.
The only disadvantage I can see (Appart from the overheating) is the slow flash time. I have tried to photograph people jumping and you can always see blured hands or feet.
Colour consistency is brilliant.
Recharge time and lght stability are brilliant.

I am looking at extending my kit. I am looking at the RX series purely so I can use the Skyport radio triggers to adjust the light. This would be great for a hair light.

I have no problems recommending the lights to anyone, particularly if you get the fan cooled ones.

This summer I will probably also get the Tronix explorer so I have some location lighting.

And one other question, if I may. Suppose I went with the single D-Lite setup to start. I know it has a built-in optical trigger. I have a 580EX currently. If I don't want any wires and this is indoor only, what are my best options for triggering the D-lite? Like I'm wondering if I should use the 580EX on the camera hotshoe or jump right into getting a couple of PW's and plan to add more as I add more lights...or maybe another option would be to get a stand and hotshoe adapter for the 580EX to use that as a hair/fill light and get a ST-E2 for the camera to trigger the 580EX, which would optically trigger the D-lite.
Recently I had problems with my radio triggers, and just connected my 580EX, set it to Manual and 1 / 128th power. Lights triggered every time.

OK, that's good to know. I'll try the experiment with the 580EX right behind the DL to see what happens. When I did something similar to this, I was standing behind the DL with my camera and flash attached, and I was depending on my 7-year-old to tell me if the DL flashed or not. But I can put my 580EX on a stand with PW attached to fire it remotely, while I'm standing in front of the DL to see for myself whether if flashes or not.
As said above, It works for me.

[hawk911]

This summer I will probably also get the Tronix explorer so I have some location lighting.

Never heard of this; can the D-lite be portable then with one of these?

edit: Went here, and it looks like this would be a very doable option for portability.

Compatability chart for Tronix Explorer (http://www.innovatronix.com/compatib.asp)

[bobbyz]

Robert has often mentioned the advantages of the ights.
The only disadvantage I can see (Appart from the overheating) is the slow flash time. I have tried to photograph people jumping and you can always see blured hands or feet.
Colour consistency is brilliant.
Recharge time and lght stability are brilliant.


One more disadvantage is the 1/160 sync speed. Something to consider if you shoot outside in the sun or shoot strobed sports, like basetball.

[tiler65]

One more disadvantage is the 1/160 sync speed. Something to consider if you shoot outside in the sun or shoot strobed sports, like basetball.

Where does it say 1/160 sync speed?

I thought mine can shoot quicker, up to 1/1200.

I will investigate.

[TMR Design]

While I own and am a big fan of the Elinchrom D-Lite's it is important to recognize what where it's most capable and when it is not the best solution.

Within generic talk of home studios, portraiture, family photos, and models with some movement then the D-Lite's are gems. Consistency is great and the strobes are a dream to use.

If high speed action, sports or outdoor shooting where you must compete with the sun and control flash vs. ambient then the D-Lite's are simply not the best solution. I think that it's pretty much been established that D-Lite's can sync safely up to 1/160s but not beyond that. Flash duration is at its best (fastest) when at high power levels but it still not fast enough to freeze action.

Another thing, as pointed out in Peter's post is that part of the reason the D-Lite's are inexpensive is because of the build quality and the use of high impact plastics rather than a more robust aluminum chassis found on more costly strobes. There is a definite limitation as far as the size and weight of the modifiers you can attach to the D-Lite's due to the construction of the swivel mount.

I use a 36" x 48" softbox very comfortably but I wouldn't attempt use a larger box or anything larger than a 5 foot octabox. But again, within a small home studio, softboxes and octaboxes of that size are pretty normal and most don't need larger modifiers.

For the cost and consistency, D-Lite's are a viable alternative and produce outstanding results. They are not the be-all, end-all solution to lighting but they are excellent and hard to beat for the quality and price.

[TMR Design]

Where does it say 1/160 sync speed?

I thought mine can shoot quicker, up to 1/1200.

I will investigate.

I (and others) have tested the D-Lite's. They sync comfortably at the generic 1/125s and can be pushed to 1/160s. Once you reach 1/200s you're going to start seeing the shutter curtain in the frame.

There is no way you can sync D-LIte's at 1/1200s.

[bobbyz]

Where does it say 1/160 sync speed?

I thought mine can shoot quicker, up to 1/1200.

I will investigate.

I just got it from Robert's report.

[shooterman]

I can concur that 1/160 is the max sync. I originally reported I could shoot at 1/250, but after Robert suggested I do some controlled experiments, sho'nuff, 1/160 is the fastest I can shoot without the shutter curtain creeping in the frame.

[Johnty]

I have had the D-Lite2's for a while now and they are superb. I had no experience of studio flash before, but they are easy to set up and use. They offer a good consistent power range and produce great light. The large softbox is enough to light a good portrait. They pack well and travel well. I have had one modelling bulb fail, but that was easily replaced at £6! The Uk versions do not have fans, but I really don't see that as an issue.
I would say go ahead and enjoy!

[hawk911]

While I own and am a big fan of the Elinchrom D-Lite's it is important to recognize what where it's most capable and when it is not the best solution.

Within generic talk of home studios, portraiture, family photos, and models with some movement then the D-Lite's are gems. Consistency is great and the strobes are a dream to use.

If high speed action, sports or outdoor shooting where you must compete with the sun and control flash vs. ambient then the D-Lite's are simply not the best solution. I think that it's pretty much been established that D-Lite's can sync safely up to 1/160s but not beyond that. Flash duration is at its best (fastest) when at low power levels but it still not fast enough to freeze action.

Another thing, as pointed out in Peter's post is that part of the reason the D-Lite's are inexpensive is because of the build quality and the use of high impact plastics rather than a more robust aluminum chassis found on more costly strobes. There is a definite limitation as far as the size and weight of the modifiers you can attach to the D-Lite's due to the construction of the swivel mount.

I use a 36" x 48" softbox very comfortably but I wouldn't attempt use a larger box or anything larger than a 5 foot octabox. But again, within a small home studio, softboxes and octaboxes of that size are pretty normal and most don't need larger modifiers.

For the cost and consistency, D-Lite's are a viable alternative and produce outstanding results. They are not the be-all, end-all solution to lighting but they are excellent and hard to beat for the quality and price.

Just curious what would be a good traveling, location light then? I can't necessarily afford 2 sets of lights.

[akiwi]

While I own and am a big fan of the Elinchrom D-Lite's it is important to recognize what where it's most capable and when it is not the best solution.

Within generic talk of home studios, portraiture, family photos, and models with some movement then the D-Lite's are gems. Consistency is great and the strobes are a dream to use.

If high speed action, sports or outdoor shooting where you must compete with the sun and control flash vs. ambient then the D-Lite's are simply not the best solution. I think that it's pretty much been established that D-Lite's can sync safely up to 1/160s but not beyond that. Flash duration is at its best (fastest) when at low power levels but it still not fast enough to freeze action.

Another thing, as pointed out in Peter's post is that part of the reason the D-Lite's are inexpensive is because of the build quality and the use of high impact plastics rather than a more robust aluminum chassis found on more costly strobes. There is a definite limitation as far as the size and weight of the modifiers you can attach to the D-Lite's due to the construction of the swivel mount.

I use a 36" x 48" softbox very comfortably but I wouldn't attempt use a larger box or anything larger than a 5 foot octabox. But again, within a small home studio, softboxes and octaboxes of that size are pretty normal and most don't need larger modifiers.

For the cost and consistency, D-Lite's are a viable alternative and produce outstanding results. They are not the be-all, end-all solution to lighting but they are excellent and hard to beat for the quality and price.
Agree with all you say there Robert.

My large octo is 170 cm 5 ft 3in. It is about the limit to what you should youse.

Just curious what would be a good traveling, location light then? I can't necessarily afford 2 sets of lights.
If you have the D-lites or alien bees for that matter, if you get the Tronix explorer, you can power these from battery power.
The new tronix xt even has the possiblility to plug in an external battery to increase the number of flashes you can make with it.

I am considering getting an Elinchrom 600RX to compliment my d-lites.
It has a faster flash duration for freezing action, has more power so it can be used to overpower the sun, can be controlled by the skyport, and is fan cooled.
However it costs more that 2 x that of a d-lote 4 :(

[tim_pb09]

I am looking for a portable solution also, one that can sync at 1/250 sec. Is there a spec on the D-Lite's that would inform me of this 1/160 limitation? I look at the rated flash duration at Full Power of the DLite2 = 1/1200 and Dlite4 = 1/800. Both of which seem to be faster than 1/250. But yet in real life application the flash duration is really above 1/160 and less than 1/200. So whoms specs can you really trust?

Any suggestions other than the very expensive rx units?

I (and others) have tested the D-Lite's. They sync comfortably at the generic 1/125s and can be pushed to 1/160s. Once you reach 1/200s you're going to start seeing the shutter curtain in the frame.

There is no way you can sync D-LIte's at 1/1200s.

[TMR Design]

I am looking for a portable solution also, one that can sync at 1/250 sec. Is there a spec on the D-Lite's that would inform me of this 1/160 limitation? I look at the rated flash duration at Full Power of the DLite2 = 1/1200 and Dlite4 = 1/800. Both of which seem to be faster than 1/250. But yet in real life application the flash duration is really above 1/160 and less than 1/200. So whoms specs can you really trust?

Any suggestions other than the very expensive rx units?

Tim,

You are being confused by the difference between sync speed and flash duration. They are 2 totally separate things. We are talking about the sync speed. If you look at your camera's manual and Speedlites, etc you'll see a maximum sync speed.

There isn't an actual published sync speed for the D-Lites. I've not only tested with both Canon and Nikon but I've had a great deal of correspondence with Elinca SA (Elinchrom) and they confirm these numbers.

If you choose not to believe that then I would suggest you do the tests yourself to confirm the information, but it's pretty much accepted and known through testing that 1/160 is the maximum sync speed with Elinchrom D-Lite's. I think that in this thread alone there are several people that confirm this.

Do some research into sync speeds and flash duration and you'll make the same discovery.

If you must have faster sync speeds and/or faster flash duration then you can check out some of the other strobes available at that price point. The Alien Bees, although not quite as consistent are a good portable and sports solution for the fast flash durations and slightly higher sync speeds.

There have also been many threads that address the issues of sync speed and flash duration.

[TMR Design]

Any suggestions other than the very expensive rx units?

We have another forum member (steveathome) that owns an Elinchrom Style 400 BX. That's the only strobe in between D-Lite's and the Style RX strobes. I don't know how fast it will sync but you might either post here or send him a PM asking about it. It's an outstanding strobe that is just as stable as the D-Lites, fan cooled and really a great performer.

[hawk911]

Robert, any suggestions on a portable solution? Why do you suggest the D-lite might not e a good portable light; the plastic housing rather than a metal housing?