Speedlite debacle

[london]

Today my 420EX Speedlite hit the floor in the middle of a shoot. I hadn't tightened the lock properly and when I knocked against the flash-stand it went flying off. After reinserting the batteries, it started up -- lights on the back came on, etc. -- but no flash. I killed it.

Okay, so the shoot was ruined. Now there is the question of fixing it or buying a new one. The folks at the local camera store tell me it will take 3 to 4 weeks and $180 to fix. You can imagine how I reacted to that news. The Speedlite only cost me about $220 new! Plus I have to wait a month. Not good.

Anyone know of other options at this point? Are there faster or cheaper alternatives? Any and all recommendations would be much appreciated.

Scott

[Pyromaniac]

Check ebay for a used 420EX or 550EX. You should be able to get a 550EX for around $300 or less that way. Don't know what a 420EX would cost on ebay but shouldn't be to much.

[Amstaff]

I just sold my like new 420 to a freind for $50! Yesterday....sorry ;(

[Sicily1918]

420EX at Amazon (or one of their 3rd-party sellers) goes for about $170 new... $180 to 'fix' it is ludicrous.

[Marshall]

Try the Sigma EF 500 super DG good reports on this forum & a good price compared to Canon & works with ETTL- 11.

[Andy_T]

Depending on what's broken and your technical abilities, you might be able to repair it yourself ... look at this link (http://home.fuse.net/pets/EOS/550EX/550ex.htm) for an example.

Warning! :shock: This is potentially very dangerous. Only try it if you are familiar with the hazards of electronics!

Best regards,
Andy

[jeffherald]

I haven't seen anyone ask if it was insured. It is was, and you have a low deductable, get it replaced.

Otherwise, if it were me, I would just buy a new (or used) one.

[robertwgross]

Maybe when you get your Speedlite repaired or replaced, you should get an airbag installed.

---Bob Gross---

[CyberDyneSystems]

definitely don't pay $180.00 for repair!
There $180.00 new :)