Best Flash for the buck?

[napolar]

I am looking at purchasing an external flash for my Digital Rebel, but I am confused by the different models. Basically I am looking for an "all purpose" indoor / outdoor flash that I will be able to grow into. At this time I am looking at the:
Canon 550EX
Canon 580EX
Sigma 500 Super DG
Sigma 500 DG ST

If anyone out there can give me a brief pro / con to each, or suggest another model to really confuse the situation, that would be great.

I am not, nor do I want to become, a professional photographer, but I do want to have decent equipment and take good photos. I take a little bit of everything from family to nature to sports. Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks

[KenW]

Well not being an expert, you can get the most bang for your buck with Sigma 500 Super DG, not as good a build as the Canon modlels but half price and most of the features you need for the DReb. If you may be upgrading the body in a coulple years the best value is the 580EX with advanced features which may be of use on your next body. I have the 580 EX for my DReb and it looks and feels better than the Sigma. You never complain about buying better than you need but..., let your wallet be your guide, but follow your gut feeling.

Ken

[Mike Panic]

ive heard great things about sunpack's new flash unit - retails for around $150 or so - but id still buy a used 550ex for $200-250 because you never know about compatibility issues w/ 3rd party manufactors

[bfphoto]

Will Crockett has a great article on Flash at shootsmarter.com. You will have to sign up for his web site to the to the information, but if you can get to it , it will be well worth your while. Based on his analysis, I bought the Metz 54mz and have not regretted it. Check it out: http://www.shootsmarter.com/infocenter/wc031.htm.

[CyberDyneSystems]

If you are still considering Sigma,. you need to get the "Super" for full ETTL compatibility with Canon's DSLRs.

They are a good bargain indeed,.. but used 550EX falshes can be had for good prices now too.

[Headcase650]

Im going to pick up some new flash guns soon and was debating between the sigma ef 500 dg super or used 550ex (I already have 1 550ex).

Im pretty sure Im gonna pick up two of the sigmas. Reason: they will work as optical slaves as well as wireless e-ttl. That way if I want to throw my two vivitar 283's in the mix there wouldnt be any problems.

Canon speed lights wont work as optical slaves without problems.