Elinchrom Quadra or Ranger?

[pnmd]

I've been using my 580EX II's with an ST-E2 for a year now in studio. But I would like to do outdoor daytime shoots. I'm considering the new Quadra. I've read about many good Ranger reviews- Rudi's review and others. The advantage with the Quadra is the smaller size but with less power. My next shoot wil be with a friend in her wedding dress prior to the wedding. I plan on shooting outdoors and suspect I will have to overpower the sun for some shots.

Found this video about the Quadra on Youtube. Quadra is supposed to be out in May.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKnANu7aLkw

So my question is Quadra or Ranger? BTW, I'm going with Elinchrom because of their modifiers. Thx :)

[Rudi]

Hmmm... Ranger vs Quadra (technically they're both Rangers, but for the sake of this discussion, let's call them that), I'm glad not to have to make that choice! :) I bought the Ranger when the Quadra was still far enough in the future that it didn't factor into my decision as much as it would if I could walk into a store and see one in the flesh. At the time, I also decided that if I'm going to have to be lugging around stands and modifiers, I might as well get the more versatile (although heavier) choice, and get the Ranger. For me, this was definitely the right choice! I frequently shoot in situations where I need to overpower the sun while using light modifiers such as softboxes, and I cannot chose the time of day that I shoot (it's not up to me). Living in Australia, to overpower the sun I need all the power I can get.

That said, the Quadra, with 400Ws of power, would be sufficient for a lot of situations. It is a lot lighter, and that would be a plus. But... you do get fewer full-power shots out of a battery charge, and that would be a minus - especially since I would be using it at higher powers compared to the fully-grown Ranger. And at the end of the day I would still be stuck with the stands, modifiers and accessories.

Not an easy choice!

[Gentleman Villain]

Rudi is right

1100 Elinchrom WS is a good amount of juice to overpower the direct-sunlight. 400 Elinchrom WS is a good amount of juice for fill flash with direct-sunlight or for overpowering indirect-sunlight (open shade, open sky, pre-dawn, dusk etc)

[pnmd]

Rudi, thanks for the reply! It is going to be a difficult decision. Do you have to use all 1200watts of the Ranger when you overpower the full sun?

Also from the video I learned that the Quadra will have a built in Skyport! And the Quadra will have an adapter which will allow the use of all Elinchrom modifiers. It is going to be a tough decision. BTW, I considered the new Pocketwizard Flex/Mini with my 580EX II's but I think the Elinchroms will pay off more in versatility in the long run.

[pnmd]

Rudi is right

1100 Elinchrom WS is a good amount of juice to overpower the direct-sunlight. 400 Elinchrom WS is a good amount of juice for fill flash with direct-sunlight or for overpowering indirect-sunlight (open shade, open sky, pre-dawn, dusk etc)


thanks for the response. Saw your post after my recent post.

[Gentleman Villain]

Do you have to use all 1200watts of the Ranger when you overpower the full sun?



It just depends on the look that you're trying to create. 1100ws gives you lots of freedom in choice of modifier to use....400ws might work just fine with certain modifiers like the high efficiency reflectors. Some people like the look of mixing beauty dishes (instead of softboxes) with direct sunlight. If you're willing to experiment then I'm certain you can find some way of working with the 400. But in general, the 1100 would be ideal for the true freedom of working with a broad range of modifiers and lighting conditions.

[Gentleman Villain]

Robert (TMR design) shoots Elinchrom heads on location in conjunction with a non-elinchrom battery system. I've never tried that before, but it seems to be working really well for him. Just wanted to give ya another option in case you're not familiar :) Good luck with whatever you decide.

[Rudi]

Rudi, thanks for the reply! It is going to be a difficult decision. Do you have to use all 1200watts of the Ranger when you overpower the full sun?

I haven't had to shoot it at full power yet, but regularly shoot only half a stop down from full power (that would make it around 750-800Ws, I guess)... It really depends on the look I'm trying to create - underexposing ambient by two stops or more in direct Aussie sun, near the middle of the day... let's just say that I'm glad I have the power available to me! :)

But in general, the 1100 would be ideal for the true freedom of working with a broad range of modifiers and lighting conditions.

Very true!

[PacAce]

I've been using my 580EX II's with an ST-E2 for a year now in studio. But I would like to do outdoor daytime shoots. I'm considering the new Quadra. I've read about many good Ranger reviews- Rudi's review and others. The advantage with the Quadra is the smaller size but with less power. My next shoot wil be with a friend in her wedding dress prior to the wedding. I plan on shooting outdoors and suspect I will have to overpower the sun for some shots.

Found this video about the Quadra on Youtube. Quadra is supposed to be out in May.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKnANu7aLkw

So my question is Quadra or Ranger? BTW, I'm going with Elinchrom because of their modifiers. Thx :)

I didn't realize how small that Quadra is until I saw that youtube video. I think the Quadra would be something that competes with the Quantum X5Dr Qflash and is just as portable and fits that type of requirement (portability with more power than a regular hotshoe flash). The Ranger RX does not fall into that category. Yes, it's transportable and has a lot of power but you wouldn't want to use it the same way you would use the Qflash or the Quadra (unless you're built like an ox). :)

Of course, the Quadra does have its own drawbacks, too, compared to the Ranger RX, such as less shots per charge and less maximum power.

[Hermes]

All depends on how you plan to use it. If you just want a couple of heads to use with umbrellas for the odd location shot then the Quadra would be ideal. It won't overpower bright sunlight but if you're doing portraits or wedding shots then this won't really matter - you'll always be able to find some shade or turn your subjects' backs to the sun and still get beautiful images. A Quadra with a couple of heads, stands and umbrellas is a truly portable setup and fairly easy for one person to carry with a camera bag.

If you want all the options and power of a studio setup outdoors then you'll need the Ranger. The weight savings of the Quadra won't matter a huge amount if you plan to transport heavyweight stands, beauty dishes, softboxes, reflectors, e.t.c. On the other hand, the reduced power will be a hindrance when using modifiers that eat up a lot of light or when you need to shoot in a specific outdoor location whatever the ambient light levels.

[pnmd]

Thanks everyone for the replies! Sounds like modifiers and lighting conditions will dictate my decision. Does anyone know if the 39" or 53" Octaboxes will light up sufficiently with the 400watt Quadra? I also have a Mola Demi beauty dish.

[PacAce]

Thanks everyone for the replies! Sounds like modifiers and lighting conditions will dictate my decision. Does anyone know if the 39" or 53" Octaboxes will light up sufficiently with the 400watt Quadra? I also have a Mola Demi beauty dish.

You might also want to find out if the tiny Quadra head is going to be able to support the weight of either of those octaboxes.

[pnmd]

You might also want to find out if the tiny Quadra head is going to be able to support the weight of either of those octaboxes.

Good point. I know from the video there will be Quadra adapters to fit Elinchrom modifiers but not sure if it'll support the weight of larger modifiers.

[Rudi]

Does anyone know if the 39" or 53" Octaboxes will light up sufficiently with the 400watt Quadra?

Of course! A lot of studio lights also top out at 400Ws, and that is plenty for those modifiers (it might not be enough for those modifiers under full-bore lunchtime desert sun, but that is another matter :)). I, too, would be more worried about whether the Quadra can actually support those modifier, though! (I suspect it will, but I'd want to have a good close look at the Quadra swivel mount, just to be sure).

[pnmd]

Thanks Rudi, for the reply! I'm really leaning torwards the Quadra because of portability. 400WS sounds lilke it'll be enough for my purposes. Actually I'm using my 580EX II's now in the sun and they work great with shoot through umbrella or bare bulb but not enough for softboxes or beauty dish...

[pnmd]

Rudi, coming from 580EX's, I'm not use to power cables. Do you find that the cables coming off the battery a big hindrance in terms of relocating a shoot? Trip over them? Also the video states Quadra will be 66% / 33% power distribution. Significance? Finally do you use 2 Ranger heads on location shoots?

[Rudi]

Rudi, coming from 580EX's, I'm not use to power cables. Do you find that the cables coming off the battery a big hindrance in terms of relocating a shoot?

Less hassle than relocating monolights and associated cables.


Trip over them?
Ahem... never! ;)

Also the video states Quadra will be 66% / 33% power distribution. Significance?
One head fires at one stop lower power than the other. 2:1 ratio, always. This is the same as the Ranger RX Speed AS, which I have. :)

Finally do you use 2 Ranger heads on location shoots?
Hardly ever. Mostly one head on location, with the sun helping out sometimes. :)

[Dvenosa]

how much does a quadra costs?

[pnmd]

how much does a quadra costs?

From Flashcentre:

http://www.theflashcentre.com/elinchrom-ranger-quanta-kit-i2716.html


Web Price: £1,121.25 Inc Vat = $1566
£975.00 Excl Vat = $1362


what's Vat?

[pnmd]

Rudi, thanks for the reply. You've been most helpful! BTW, some nice pics on your website. Nice composition with the wedding pics.

[PacAce]

From Flashcentre:

http://www.theflashcentre.com/elinchrom-ranger-quanta-kit-i2716.html


Web Price: £1,121.25 Inc Vat = $1566
£975.00 Excl Vat = $1362


what's Vat?

Is that $1566 in US dollars? If so, it's not much cheaper than the Ranger RX pack.

How much are the heads that plug into the Quadra pack?

[Lithian]

Wow, never realised how small that thing is. Slot the pack in your camera bag and you could pretty much wear the thing (super power on camera flash?)

The Flash Centre always seems quite expensive, Robert White in the UK offer the Quadra kit for £875 before vat. The Ranger speed AS with S head is £1315 before vat. (TFC is £1495 for the same) Also with the 1100ws packs you'd want to add the Skyport RX dongle which will add a bit more expense.

Its not cheap but... not horiffic and lowers the cost of entry to the battery powered elinchrom club. I'll wait for the reviews but its very tempting

[pnmd]

I asked the Flash Centre on their youtube video, "Chris, can the Quadra support the 39" or 53" Octaboxes and will it light it sufficiently? Also will the Quadra support my Mola Demi beauty dish?"

and their reply was:
"if your beauty dish has an Elinchrom mount on the back then you can use the Quadra to Elinchrom adapter."

I suspect if it'll support a Mola dish which is fairly heavy, it should support the Octabox?

[Hermes]

I asked the Flash Centre on their youtube video, "Chris, can the Quadra support the 39" or 53" Octaboxes and will it light it sufficiently? Also will the Quadra support my Mola Demi beauty dish?"

and their reply was:
"if your beauty dish has an Elinchrom mount on the back then you can use the Quadra to Elinchrom adapter."

I suspect if it'll support a Mola dish which is fairly heavy, it should support the Octabox?

All the rotalux boxes are very lightweight - I suspect it will easily support them.

[TMR Design]

The Quadra looks very nice but you really have to be certain that the power and distribution will work for you. If you use a single head, that's 400ws. Not too bad and very useful for lots of applications. Once you add the second head you have a 2:1 distribution which means that the primary head will get 200ws and the secondary gets 100ws and to the best of my knowledge you can't configure it for two 200ws strobes so this can be very limiting. On the other hand, if it meets your needs it could be a very nice unit, but as has been pointed out, it's not all the much cheaper than a Ranger, which opens up another world of flexibility that the Quadra can't offer.

[Rudi]

I agree with you, Robert, that the full-size Ranger is the better location option. It has more power and no adapters are required to mount regular Elinchrom modifiers. But... the 2:1 ratio on the Quadra means that at full power you can fire the flashes at 266Ws and 133Ws, when both plugged into the same pack. Given that the Quadra looks like it's designed to compete with smaller battery powered flashes such as the Norman and Quantum, it's actually quite impressive (and 266Ws is not all that far off an Alien Bee B400 fired at full power). That's my take on the situation, anyway. And yes, I will try to avoid buying one of these when I see it in the flesh... :D

[TMR Design]

I agree with you, Robert, that the full-size Ranger is the better location option. It has more power and no adapters are required to mount regular Elinchrom modifiers. But... the 2:1 ratio on the Quadra means that at full power you can fire the flashes at 266Ws and 133Ws, when both plugged into the same pack. Given that the Quadra looks like it's designed to compete with smaller battery powered flashes such as the Norman and Quantum, it's actually quite impressive (and 266Ws is not all that far off an Alien Bee B400 fired at full power). That's my take on the situation, anyway. And yes, I will try to avoid buying one of these when I see it in the flesh... :D

Ah thanks for the clarification on the power distribution. I still don't see it as a viable solution for anyone that needs 2 strobes of reasonable power. I guess I would take it in place of a Quantum or Norman system but for what it is and what it is not (meaning that you have to use adapters for the modifiers) I couldn't justify it.

My feeling is that I'll stick with what I have until such time that I can afford or justify the Ranger. I think the Quadra is going to be great for a lot of people but it wouldn't give me the flexibility I would want or need and certainly can't compete with or battle the sun on a bright day. For my location work I need to have that ability.

[Hermes]

I agree with you, Robert, that the full-size Ranger is the better location option. It has more power and no adapters are required to mount regular Elinchrom modifiers. But... the 2:1 ratio on the Quadra means that at full power you can fire the flashes at 266Ws and 133Ws, when both plugged into the same pack. Given that the Quadra looks like it's designed to compete with smaller battery powered flashes such as the Norman and Quantum, it's actually quite impressive (and 266Ws is not all that far off an Alien Bee B400 fired at full power). That's my take on the situation, anyway. And yes, I will try to avoid buying one of these when I see it in the flesh... :D

Que? 266w/s is nearing double the power of a B400 - assume you meant to say B800. It's a good point anyway, the Quadra has plenty of power for most applications. However, I still say it only makes sense if you need your setup to be as small & lightweight as possible - it's just too pricey to be a cheaper alternative to the Ranger even if you can live with the lower power.

[Rudi]

My mistake, I meant the B800 of course. :) (Even though I knew all about the effective-Watt-seconds nonsense, it still threw me when I wasn't paying attention).

[Hermes]

My mistake, I meant the B800 of course. :) (Even though I knew all about the effective-Watt-seconds nonsense, it still threw me when I wasn't paying attention).

...that's how they get you.

[Faolan]

I'm one of those people who's interested in the Quadra. These are my reasons:

1) I shoot with a 430EX/580EX combo outdoors which has provided more than sufficient lighting ability in 90% of the situations I've been in. The Quadra will give that power and more given more options.

2) It's power pack should outlast the above without having to change batteries.

3) Easier to carry and pack away for a weight to power ratio. This is important as some location shoots occur a fair distance from the beaten path. I rarely have an assistant so I'm packing a lot of gear...

4) The added flexibility/reliability of the Skyport controls. Better than trying to rely on Canon's IR.

However despite the above I will be waiting for the reviews to pop up before commiting to the lights.

[pnmd]

Now that David Hobby has jumped ship to bigger lights I have renewed interest in the Quadra vs Ranger. OK DH didn't influence me, yes he did, no he didn't...LOL

But seriously I did a full body photoshoot this weekend and realized the limitations of my 580EX II's. Used the 580's with my Mola Demi and 43" brolly box and the lighting was poorly distributed because I had to back them far away from my model to get full body/background coverage.

http://strobist.blogspot.com/2009/04/walk-around-monobloc-pt-2.html

interesting points:
"In the end, monos will offer you power, flexibility a fast shoot/recycle times. You will be able to back them up a good distance and still have them be very useful. You can overpower the sun. You can light large objects in decent ambient light levels without fear...I currently am re-evaluating my monobloc system and potentially pulling out the wallet to do some damage."

DH is so influential IMO. What he says, the Strobist army will follow and buy.
Basically he reiterates what you guys were saying about having more power with the Ranger vs Quadra; but DH compares monoblocs vs speedlights.

I'm still considering the Quadra vs Ranger. Even more so now that DH decrees it's OK to use big boy lights. LOL ;)

[Faolan]

David has never been against monoblocs, he has always stated there is a time and a place for them.

To be honest I wouldn't go out and buy anything that anyone says it's the next best thing, I would sit back and consider what does it bring to the table. In this I mean what can it do for my style of photography, what advantages to my workflow and what are it's limitations to cost benefits.

I've been using flash guns long before the Strobist became popular, the techniques DH teaches you are just that. Tools to help you produce better work and to think about light. If you understand light then there is no real difference in how you use a flash gun to a studio light to light a scene. Light behaves the same regardless of it's source.

Powerpacks offer flexibility in it's power range, flash guns offer flexibilty in it's small, compact nature.

Powerpack lights have come a long way in the last few years, especially with things like remote control Skyports and so on. This makes them far more usable in the field where lighting can change by the minute.

[pnmd]

Found a glowing review. I want the Quadra! :)

http://www.professionalphotographer.co.uk/tests/accessories/elinchrom-ranger-quadra


Elinchrom Ranger Quadra


If you are a location photographer, Elinchrom’s lastest piece of kit could revolutionise the way you work and prevent back injury in the process.

Shooting on location with studio flash is very popular in all kinds of photography at the moment, although, anyone who has used so-called portable studio flash systems will know that these units can sometimes be far from portable. Battery packs can be rather hefty, resembling something you’d usually find under a car bonnet and weighing upwards of 5kg. You’ll need strong arms, to carry them between jobs.
. . .

[pnmd]

The Flash Centre updated their prices:

http://www.theflashcentre.com/elinchrom-quanta-battery-system-c336.html

Elinchrom Ranger Quadra 2 Head Kit Web Price:
£1,493.85 Inc Vat = $2193
£1,299.00 Excl Vat= $1907

http://www.theflashcentre.com/images/quadra2headkit.jpg


More Information:

The Full Works!
This kit contains:
1x Ranger Quadra Pack
2x Ranger Quadra Batteries
2x Ranger Quadra heads (A or S)
1x Charger
1x Skyport Transmitter
1x Strap
1x Fitted Case

-------------

Elinchrom Ranger Quadra Kit Web Price:
£1,121.25 Inc Vat = $1646
£975.00 Excl Vat = $1431

http://www.theflashcentre.com/images/quadra-with-head.jpg

Kits will include:


Quadra Pack
Battery
Q Head
2.5M cable
Charger

[Rudi]

Damn, that's pricy! :(

[pnmd]

Damn, that's pricy! :(

It is but I want it. ;)
I wish there a US retail price. I checked Flash Centre's price for a Ranger RX kit and got $2500. BH had an RX kit for $1995. But there's so many Ranger kits...

Rudi, is that modeling light useful/practical for outdoor portraits? I'm coming from 580EX II's so not sure about modeling lights.

[Faolan]

Robert White Photographic prices aren't much different (about £100 difference for the base kit if I read it right) nor carries the full range yet:

http://www.robertwhite.co.uk/product.asp?P_ID=2358&PT_ID=580

[Rudi]

Rudi, is that modeling light useful/practical for outdoor portraits? I'm coming from 580EX II's so not sure about modeling lights.

I wouldn't have a clue, I don't use it (modeling light on the Ranger, that is). :)

[ngc1039]

Does look a bit on the $$$ side but I wouldn't go by UK prices, often it's more like take the £ sign and replace it with a $ when it comes over here. I would guess more like $1200 for that one head kit.

[pnmd]

Does look a bit on the $$$ side but I wouldn't go by UK prices, often it's more like take the £ sign and replace it with a $ when it comes over here. I would guess more like $1200 for that one head kit.

Hopefully, you're right. I put those US dollar conversion numbers up there which I got off of Google.

[pnmd]

Spoke with someone at Bogen and he said they should be released in US in June. Could not give a price yet. He also said that the Quadra battery pack will work with Ranger heads using an adapter cable.

[tetrode]

Spoke with someone at Bogen and he said they should be released in US in June. Could not give a price yet. He also said that the Quadra battery pack will work with Ranger heads using an adapter cable.

Vistek in Canada has Quadra pricing on their site. Here's the kit shown in a previous post:

http://www.vistek.ca/store/ProPhotoElinchrom/242256/elinchrom-ranger-quadra-to-go-speed-a-case-set.aspx

Converting CAD to USD gives a fairly gruesome $2260. The Ranger RX Speed AS kit is only $80 more than that at B&H (one head instead of the Quadra kit's two but with the Varistar).

Hopefully, US pricing for the Quadra will be more aggressive than Canada's.

Dave F.

[Rudi]

Hopefully, US pricing for the Quadra will be more aggressive than Canada's.


I suspect that, at least initially, it won't be. This seems to be a pattern that I have seen repeated over and over again with new product releases in the US. But, I expect the pricing to come down within a few months, after the initial feeding frenzy subsides...

[Lithian]

The price of the 2 head kit dosn't seem too bad considering you get the skyport transmitter and upgrading to the fast heads is only £30 more.

A full size ranger A head is £570 at TFC so a comparable RX speed AS kit with 2x A heads, spare battery and the skyport gear will run to about £2750... pretty much an extra 1.5 stops, bigger battery but nearly double the money. Oh, you do get a brolly with that price though.

Although i think we need to buy the adaptors to fit the full size light mods onto the little quadra heads, No idea on pricing yet.

I've just done a little comparison with B&H, the full ranger kit i put together costs, before tax;
£2390 at TFC in the UK
£2240 at B&H

Compared with £1299 pretax for the quadra kit.

[pnmd]

The price of the 2 head kit dosn't seem too bad considering you get the skyport transmitter and upgrading to the fast heads is only £30 more.



I agree. We still don't have exact US prices for Quadra. But I'm estimating you can get complete Quadra with 2 heads and built in Skyports for same price as a Ranger kit with 1 head and no Skyports. I'm estimating roughly around $2000.

[pnmd]

Found some more pics on a German website.
http://translate.google.com/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.foto-mueller.at%2Fshop%2Fpi-1266272718_2.html%3FcategoryId%3D52&sl=de&tl=en&history_state0=

This looks like the adapter for mounting Eli modifiers. Still don't understand how it'll connect to a modifier. Sturdy?

"Elinchrom Ranger Quadra Bayonet Adapter for use of standard Elinchrom Accessories"

[pnmd]

few more pics :)

[DarthVader]

US price will be cheaper...just compare the 5D II price in Europe and US. I'm thinking of getting the Ranger RX but this Quadra looks manageable for overseas travelling.

[pnmd]

US price will be cheaper...just compare the 5D II price in Europe and US. I'm thinking of getting the Ranger RX but this Quadra looks manageable for overseas travelling.

I'm hoping $1500 for the whole kit with 2 heads. I'm still debating between Quadra vs Ranger for location shoots. What made you decide on the Ranger?

[DarthVader]

Mostly the larger WS.

I'm hoping $1500 for the whole kit with 2 heads. I'm still debating between Quadra vs Ranger for location shoots. What made you decide on the Ranger?

[PacAce]

Found some more pics on a German website.
http://translate.google.com/translate?js=n&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.foto-mueller.at%2Fshop%2Fpi-1266272718_2.html%3FcategoryId%3D52&sl=de&tl=en&history_state0=

This looks like the adapter for mounting Eli modifiers. Still don't understand how it'll connect to a modifier. Sturdy?

"Elinchrom Ranger Quadra Bayonet Adapter for use of standard Elinchrom Accessories"

The way that adpater is supposed to work is that it locks on to the Quadra head like any other Quadra modifier. If you check out the ring on the other end of the adapter (the back side in the picture), you'll see that it's the ring that mates with the Quadra head.

The front part of the adapter is the same mount and locking mechanism that's on the "standard" Elinchrom strobes so it'll accept the "standard" Elinchrom modifiers.

[pnmd]

Anecdotal evidence that the Quadra may be for sale, in Russia.

Funny read :)
http://enikone.blogspot.com/

[pnmd]

It exists! Internet is great, I just found his blog and he replied in 5 minutes. Asked if I could post his pics and about the adapater. His reply:

"hehe sure go ahead!
The beautydish is a local brand from sweden..Kaffebrus.
And yes the adaptor with things on it IS very stable!
=) looking forward to try it with my octabox 170cm..hehe."

the pics: http://www.flickr.com/photos/enikone/sets/72157617170101227/
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3520/3470467553_2b0e4001e5.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3634/3470467919_7a16502f56.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3621/3470468557_448eed9da6.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3635/3471282770_d9d0a88982.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3490/3471283018_9e44bd42ea.jpg?v=0

The modifier adapter looks fairly sturdy! :)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3216/3471283218_23cf2c557b.jpg?v=0

[conserv]

That looks good.
The new Quadra is sooo interesting.
I'm afraid i'm going to buy one :confused:
I have been working with two Speelites 540EZ and Skyports in Strobist Style, but i would like to have more Ws to overpower the sun.

However, what about light modifiers?
One advantage of the Quadra is, that it is so small... so it makes no sense to take a big softbox or beautydish... i would use umbrellas onlocation. I got some Westcott collapsible umbrellas, and i think with the Quadra, it alls fits in my camera bag!
Does the swivel mount have an umbrella mount? I cant see it on the Flickr pictures. How do you fix an umbrella on a Quadra head?

I understood that the Quadra head has a smaller mount than normal Elinchrom and you can use an adapter to use modifiers with the bigger mount. But what about the smaller mount? Are there Elinchrome Modifiers (softboxes e.g.) that fit natively on the smaller Quadra mount? I have look through the new pricelists but i could not find any.

And perhaps somebody knows
- can the Quadra be charged on 110/220V and 12V (car)?
- the A head is faster than the S head, price different is very small. does the A head also has disadvantages?

[poopinmymouth]

I put my deposit down here in Germany on the weekend. If they're out in Russia, I sure hope they drop here soon, since Germany is NEXT to Switzerland, instead of several countries away.

[PacAce]

That looks good.
The new Quadra is sooo interesting.
I'm afraid i'm going to buy one :confused:
I have been working with two Speelites 540EZ and Skyports in Strobist Style, but i would like to have more Ws to overpower the sun.

However, what about light modifiers?
One advantage of the Quadra is, that it is so small... so it makes no sense to take a big softbox or beautydish... i would use umbrellas onlocation. I got some Westcott collapsible umbrellas, and i think with the Quadra, it alls fits in my camera bag!
Does the swivel mount have an umbrella mount? I cant see it on the Flickr pictures. How do you fix an umbrella on a Quadra head?

I understood that the Quadra head has a smaller mount than normal Elinchrom and you can use an adapter to use modifiers with the bigger mount. But what about the smaller mount? Are there Elinchrome Modifiers (softboxes e.g.) that fit natively on the smaller Quadra mount? I have look through the new pricelists but i could not find any.

And perhaps somebody knows
- can the Quadra be charged on 110/220V and 12V (car)?
- the A head is faster than the S head, price different is very small. does the A head also has disadvantages?

If you look closely at the Quadra head, you'll see a hole (towards the bottom of the head) where the umbrella shaft is supposed to go into. If the hole is sized for the regular Elinchrom umbrellas, the umbrella will need a 7mm shaft to fit into the hole.

[pnmd]

One advantage of the Quadra is, that it is so small...

Very compact and portable. This is Enik's first outing with it:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/enikone/
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3415/3476999998_59864db748_o.jpg

in studio with BD:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3540/3475419143_7088cc06ec_o.jpg

[pnmd]

Are there Elinchrome Modifiers (softboxes e.g.) that fit natively on the smaller Quadra mount? ?

Would you really want to buy proprietary modifiers, softboxes just for the Quadra head? The modifier adapter is a strong and sturdy mount made specifically to support existing Eli modifiers.

[conserv]

If you look closely at the Quadra head, you'll see a hole (towards the bottom of the head) where the umbrella shaft is supposed to go into.
Ah, i did not see it at first sight. Thats fine, thanks.

Would you really want to buy proprietary modifiers, softboxes just for the Quadra head? The modifier adapter is a strong and sturdy mount made specifically to support existing Eli modifiers.
Good question... the question how to use the Quadra, which light modifiers to buy, is bothering me all the time.:confused:

When i am OnLocation, i want portability. So i would not like to carry a big light modifier, because i would lose portabilty then. I think i would just use the Quadra with an umbrella.

When i am in my "livingroom-studio", an octobox or beautydish would be nice. So i would have to buy the bajonett adapter also. As a second light, i can use a Speedlite.

When i am in Studio, this is already equiped with another system, then i dont need the Quadra.

So perhaps a Quadra with one head, bajonett adapter and a octobox would be a good buy...:confused:

[Rudi]

You can tell it's new - he put the battery pack on the park bench instead of on the ground! That will pass... :D

[PacAce]

You can tell it's new - he put the battery pack on the park bench instead of on the ground! That will pass... :D
Or, if it were me doing it, you can tell I'm old. I'd be using the park bench, too, even if the pack were 10 years old. There's less bending (of my body) involved in picking up the pack afterwards when it's on the bench rather than on the ground. :lol: ;) :D

[Rudi]

You're only as old as the woman you feel, Leo... ;) :p

[Aszental]

any updates on availability?

[Rudi]

I forgot to ask when I spoke to my dealer today, but will be picking up some bits and pieces in the next week or so, and will ask then. AFAIK, they're not far away...

[conserv]

AFAIK, they're not far away...
my dealer says "end of may" and i'm on the waiting list... hoping to do some onlocation shootings with the quadra in june...

[MR do little]

Quadra are in stock here in Sweden so most serious dealers in Europe who carries Elinchrom should have them,or at least recived the first shipment.

[Aszental]

Going to be available end of next month in Australia, retails for $2400aud for a 1 light kit... pricey.

[MR do little]

Its not dirt cheap no... the price has increased since it was announced last year. (by 100£ for the one light kit) 999£ is the current price,was given a price for pre-order of 875£ when it was announced. The Ranger RX prices has gone up substantially from last year.

Ill probably get one later down the road, but i dont see a need for it at the moment. Sure the smaller size/weight is nice, but the use of modifiers and stands will still require transport of some sort. So its not a huge benefit for me.



Ranger Quadra
6,6 stops
8,2Ws->400Ws
2,2 sec Recycle (max power)
Fastest flash duration 1/6000s
150 Estimated flashes @ max power
2 hour charging time
Weigh 3kg
Integrated skyport

Ranger RX Speed AS
8,5 stops
5,6Ws ->1100Ws
0,3->2,9 Seconds
Fastest flash duration 1/5120s
250 Estimated flashes @ max power
3 hour charging time
Weigh 8kg
Buildt like a tank

[Rudi]

Ranger Quadra
6,6 stops
8,2Ws->400Ws
2,2 sec Recycle (max power)
Fastest flash duration 1/6000s
150 Estimated flashes @ max power
2 hour charging time
Weigh 3kg
Integrated skyport

Ranger RX Speed AS
8,5 stops
5,6Ws ->1100Ws
0,3->2,9 Seconds
Fastest flash duration 1/5120s
250 Estimated flashes @ max power
3 hour charging time
Weigh 8kg
Buildt like a tank

Same reasons why I'm holding off at this time. :)

[MR do little]

Great minds think alike ey Rudi?:lol:


The led modelling light seems like a great idea on the Quadra, and its no doubt a good unit for those who dont need the build and power of the Ranger RX.

Still its quite expensive, i paid the same money for my Ranger RX Speed A/S A head kit last year...:lol:

[pnmd]

Glowing review from Frank Doorhof, "The Quadra simply rocks." Battery looks light since model is wearing it on her shoulder. My new 600RX's may need some new friends.

http://www.doorhof.nl/blog/index.php?topic=2469.0

[MR do little]

Well Frank dosent give anything then "glowing" reviews when it comes to Elinchrom..;)

Its seems like a GREAT unit nevertheless, still i doubt that many photographers who shoot on location shoot with it bare, with no modifiers and no stands. So unless you walk with your gear to the shoot and pay sherpas to do it, the benefit of a lighter smaller pack isnt that big to many. (not if you compare the other advantages the Ranger RX has)

[digitalfrog]

Bought my kit today, quick and dirty (and ugly) selfportrait - I will come with much better stuff soon it there is interest.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3382/3576918786_5e5ee0c789.jpg

[EDIT]Why did I miss to say what it was .... duh.... Quadra !

[TMR Design]

Bought my kit today, quick and dirty (and ugly) selfportrait - I will come with much better stuff soon it there is interest.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3382/3576918786_5e5ee0c789.jpg

What are we looking at? What did you buy?

[Faolan]

I look at the Quadra not so much the same way as the Ranger but more along the lines of Quantum flash units. Outdoors you are really only going to use few modifiers a umbrella (shoot through or bounce) is most likely as it's the least expensive, a small softbox (big boes are too expensive to risk in wind or breezes) or a beauty dish (again probably more indoor location due to wind).

The Quantum flash units have what? 200w/s power? Not sure but I am pretty sure the Quadra is probably one of the most powerful units for it's size and for wedding photographer who do run and gun it could be ideal when you factor in the remote adjustment of power. Also the Quadra doesn't need the labyrinthine list of accessories that the Quantum needs to work. Fair enough you lose the TTL abilities but is it that much of a loss?

It'll be interesting to see a comparision with both of these units.

[MR do little]

It all depends on how you shoot and what. I dont use umbrellas regardless of location and my Ocatlite has seen more use outdoors then indoors.

A umbrella wont fair any better then a softbox in the wind.


But you raise a good point, the Quadra is small and very much comparable to the quantum if you compare the size and portability.

[Faolan]

Aye but a umbrella is cheaper to replace than a softbox.. ;)

I've had a few umbrellas get busted that way over the years, I dread to think how much that would have cost me with the price of a good softbox. Then again most my lighting is currently with flash guns so when they get blown over it's less likely to damage either the flash or the umbrella (because of weight).

I'm going to see about hiring the Quadra before buying it, see how it copes with a shoot. From what I've seen though Elinchrom are on to a winner here.

[MR do little]

Well you will have hard time destroying the rotaluxboxes with just tipping over the stand. Unlike umbrellas they can withstand quite a beating, and quality boxes like Elinchroms Rotalux or Chimera/photoflex can handle some abuse with no problems at all.

Umbrellas is another story, the spokes get much easier bent then the rods in a Rotalux/chimera box.

So while umbrellas is cheaper to replace they will also break ALOT easier then a quality softbox.

And if your after something that will withstand abuse and lightstands tipping over, the quadra head is not the answer, since its not buildt to take a beating like the A/S heads.

Neither will work well in a storm thats for sure. :-) But as far as durability goes Ranger RX with softboxes will fare alot better then Ranger Quadra with umbrellas if you plan on tipping them over .-)

Then again i dont worry about either my Ranger or any of my softboxes , since i always use the necessary sandbags/deadweight to secure my gear.This because clients safety always comes before my gears..:lol:

[TMR Design]

I couldn't agree more Paul.

Umbrella break an bend as soon as they hit the ground. The lightweight aluminum spokes can't take any abuse whatsoever.

The Rotalux boxes has steel rods and are very strong. A closed box won't take off like a sail, as an umbrella will.

Anyone using light stands with flash or strobes and modifiers on the end is not thinking clearly if you do not have the appropriate weights or sandbags at the base of the stand. Even for the simplest of setups, when I shoot on location I have 6 heavy sandbags filled with rocks and if it's windy or I can get away with one light I'll put all six on the one light stand and it's not going anywhere unless it gets VERY windy, and if it were to be that windy, I'll pack up and not try to shoot in extreme wind.

It's not the most convenient thing to carry all that weight but in the end it makes it safe and secure and protects my investment.

[Aszental]

When are these out in the states? My bro is heading to NY next week and want him to pick me up a set of quadras.

[tetrode]

When are these out in the states? My bro is heading to NY next week and want him to pick me up a set of quadras.

Sorry to have to disappoint you but, according to Bogen (the US Elinchrom distributor), the Quadras won't appear here until late June. I thought they were already available in Australia. No?

[Rudi]

I haven't been or spoken to anyone at Kayell in the last couple of weeks or so, but AFAIK the Quadra is already here. Its arrival was imminent the last time I spoke to them (as in, the next Elinchrom shipment that was already on its way had several Quadra kits listed).

[Aszental]

i spoke to kayell in melbourne last week... they said end of june.

[Rudi]

Maybe we just don't send them south. ;) :p

[digitalfrog]

Quadra, one head on the left (on the picture)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3623/3589400039_c3aa974d4e.jpg

[conserv]

Just unpacked new Quadra.
It really great, or to be more specific, tiny.
Schweet.:cool:

Size was one thing, but the other thing that surprised me was the 20W LED pilot light, its freaking bright, very good.

Seems to be the first Quadra here, but my dealer says delivery will start on monday.

Bajonett adapters will be available in a few weeks so i cant use my Octa with it, but anyway... will be shooting the weekend *happy*

[TMR Design]

Wow, that head is tiny. Can you show the pack so we can see scale?

[Faolan]

Rob, now you see why I'm so interested in these little babies! ;)

[conserv]

Wow, that head is tiny. Can you show the pack so we can see scale?
Here you are...

Could not show the camera for size comparison because i only have one ;) so i took a 135/2 and a 430EX.

[TMR Design]

Wow again. Impressively small.

I can see why people would want one. The problem I see for myself and some other people is that it's 400ws to one head, which is not bad, although not a ton of power, but the bigger issue is when using 2 heads. The power drops to such extremes that the usefulness and number of different applications becomes limited.

Looks like it would be great to supplement a Ranger Speed AS or 600RX's with battery.

[pnmd]

Quadra, one head on the left (on the picture)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3623/3589400039_c3aa974d4e.jpg

Nice composition and lighting.

[MR do little]

Wow again. Impressively small.

I can see why people would want one. The problem I see for myself and some other people is that it's 400ws to one head, which is not bad, although not a ton of power, but the bigger issue is when using 2 heads. The power drops to such extremes that the usefulness and number of different applications becomes limited.

Looks like it would be great to supplement a Ranger Speed AS or 600RX's with battery.

Yes its relly nice, i handled them at the dealer (demo day when they got them).

I will most likley pick a set up later down the road.(depending on how the feedback will be after people been (ab)using them on location for a few months)

I would think that for someone doing alot of video work with their dslr would benefit alot from the led light, along with the Quadra softbox and reflectors.

[conserv]

i hope this in on topic, excuse me if not...

uaahh, my umbrellas dont fit in the quadra umbrella holding tube :cry:

i have these double folding strobist umbrellas, westcott collapsible, and the octagonal shaft of the westcotts doesnt fit in the elinchrom holder.
i thought naive "an umbrella is an umbrella" but i was wrong.

this is especially annoying as the quadra bajonett adapter is not available for the next weeks. so i would have needed the umbrellas even more.

i was not aware that there are different kinds of umbrella shafts?

regards, martin

[Faolan]

Elinchrom use 7mm shafts, much to the annoyance of everyone ;)

[TMR Design]

i hope this in on topic, excuse me if not...

uaahh, my umbrellas dont fit in the quadra umbrella holding tube :cry:

i have these double folding strobist umbrellas, westcott collapsible, and the octagonal shaft of the westcotts doesnt fit in the elinchrom holder.
i thought naive "an umbrella is an umbrella" but i was wrong.

this is especially annoying as the quadra bajonett adapter is not available for the next weeks. so i would have needed the umbrellas even more.

regards, martin

You can use either Elinchrom or Lastolite umbrellas that have a 7mm shaft or you can use the Photek Softlighter. Although there is a lot of confusion about this, if you get the Softlighter, get the standard version and not the one with the 7mm shaft designated for Elinchrom. The 7mm shaft the make is too loose but the standard version has an extension to the shaft the is a perfect fit for the 7mm Elinchrom mount. This has been well documented and Photek acknowledges that the 7mm shaft they produce is not a snug fit.
i was not aware that there are different kinds of umbrella shafts?

[eduardofrances]

i was not aware that there are different kinds of umbrella shafts?
Westcott double fold umbrellas -and some others- have hollow hexagonal -or was octogonal?...-shape instead of circular :)

[Hatch1921]

If this has been posted... sorry.... if not... have a look at another review of the Quadra. :)

Hatch

http://mr-chompers.blogspot.com/2009/06/elinchromrangerquadra.html

Or
http://www.dg28.com/blog/equipment/ranger_quadra.htm

Links from FM :)

[TMR Design]

Westcott double fold umbrellas -and some others- have hollow hexagonal -or was octogonal?...-shape instead of circular :)

Hey Eduardo,

You've quoted the wrong person. I never said that. It was conserv that asked about different umbrella shafts and I gave some explanation.

[zaldum]

Does anyone know what power does the modelling Led has equivalent to a normal tugsten bulb?

Also, does the led goes at full power with two heads attached the same as if there is just one head?

I´m trying to keep proportionality in modelling light with all my lights, right now using Rx600´s (250w mod) and BXRi 250´s (100w mod) so modelling is proportional and i can mix all lights in studio.

[poopinmymouth]

The LED is equiv to 40Watt tungsten, unsure of proportionality as I only have one head, but I'd assume it would stay fully lit. No idea though.

As linked above, I tried to do a really thorough review of mine.
http://mr-chompers.blogspot.com/2009/06/elinchromrangerquadra.html

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3305/3601145102_a7d1e1723b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mr_chompers/3601145102/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3554/3601143446_5d104e3613.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mr_chompers/3601143446/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3313/3601144202_d828c8274c.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mr_chompers/3601144202/)

[zaldum]

Thx poop! That´s not proportional at all :D well, it´s not designed for studio, anyway.
Very usefull review btw.

So for the price of this quadra, you could het a pair of BRXi´s + stands + portalites and even have money left for a gridded 70x70 rotalux (or an explorar XT)

I´m sure elinchrom is making much more proffit on each quadra sold than anything else in their line.

[poopinmymouth]

I mentioned proportional meaning I don't know if having 2 heads makes one of the LEDs dimmer, which is what I was assuming you were asking about.

Pretty sure the price is for the size. There is nothing else on the market that approaches this size, with built in wireless controls or build quality. The Norman setup is decades old, and while you can get them with built in PWs, you can control output.

I'm sure Elinchrom is making a profit, but not the killing that you're suggesting. R&D is expensive, and I don't feel like I overpaid.

A BRXi by itself is almost as large as this entire kit. Plus you can't use them outdoors unless you buy a battery as expensive as this kit alone.

[MR do little]

Just hit me that i cant connect a pw to the quadra? please tell me im wrong...i dont remember seeing a sync jack when i saw it, cant find it on the images of the unit either. Is there a regular 3.5 jack ?

Yes i know it has buildt in skyport, that dosent play well with my Sekonic though...

A limitation if thats the case.. :-(

[TMR Design]

Just hit me that i cant connect a pw to the quadra? please tell me im wrong...i dont remember seeing a sync jack when i saw it, cant find it on the images of the unit either. Is there a regular 3.5 jack ?

Yes i know it has buildt in skyport, that dosent play well with my Sekonic though...

A limitation if thats the case.. :-(

Hi Paul,

I don't think it will accept external sync. Part of its simplicity is the built in Skyport.

[Hatch1921]

I didn't go back through all the pages.... so ... if this has been posted... sorry :)

Frank Doorhof with the Quadra and Ranger....
8 Vids
http://www.youtube.com/user/FrankDoorhof

Hatch

[MR do little]

Thanx Robert, yea i guess, still a 3,5 port doesnt add much bulk, and its a good choice to have. Can someone who got it please confirm ?

Thanx

[MR do little]

All is well, it has a 3,5 sync jack.. thank god.. .-)

[TMR Design]

All is well, it has a 3,5 sync jack.. thank god.. .-)

Where the heck is it?

[tetrode]

Where the heck is it?

If you're talking about the 3.5mm sync socket on the Quadra, Robert, here it is (item 20):

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3560/3608376255_7c44cdb9d0_o.jpg


Dave F.

[TMR Design]

Ahh the sync jack is hidden under a little thing-a ma-jig rubber doo-dad. That's tech talk for those new to lighting gear. :D

[Aszental]

Mmm i have a friend coming from sweden the end of next month, reckon its significantly cheaper there than in Aus?

[Rudi]

Not very likely. Sweden is pretty expensive for most things. But why ask us - why not ask your friend? ???

[MR do little]

The To-go kit (not complete) with a A-head will cost you 2304 $AU

[MR do little]

Oh Yea OP (PNMD) have you made up your mind yet ? :-)

[jdear]

2 prices from Kayell Australia (ring VIC, nsw is gearing towards PMA and wont tell you nothing)

Quadra, strap, rapid charger, s-head
$2495

Quadra battery alone
$1995

Seems the Quadra battery would make a great light-weight version of the ranger RX packs - buy the adapter and run your existing A / S ranger heads off it.

[Rudi]

Yeah, but for only $500 you have a lightweight head, too. :)

[MR do little]

Yea i dont really see the point of getting the Quadra without head since you have to buy a adapter.

One odd thing is that the Quadra heads dont have a front cap to protect the tube...Hopefully Elinchrom see what a brainfart they made and make one available asap.

I just sold off my Ranger Freestyle (model before RX, without the remote capability) I bought it 3 years ago with a S head ,extra battrey and charger from my dealer (was a clearance item, brand new though). I got 400$ more then i paid for it 3 years ago...:D

I contemplated on getting another Ranger RX speed A/S, but got the Quadra kit first. It was just matter wich i was gonna get first(the 300£ price increase on the Ranger RX from last year made less eager to shell out the money for it at the moment)

Havent had much time using the Quadra, so time will tell how it fares on location.

[Rudi]

I'd love to hear your impressions, Paul! Just make sure they are bad, I don't want to spend more money right now... :D

[MR do little]

LOL Rudi, they are "bad" not in a bad way though. .-)

Seriously though there are few things im a little annoyed about.

And the lack of protective cap is a BIG one!

Im not gonna drag the Quadra around in a hard case for normal location work. The flash tube is "full" size and just a fragile as any other flashtube. So why no protective cap !?

The supplied shoulder strap is tacky in comparison to the Ranger snap case.(i replaced the Quadra with the Original strap from my Ranger RX) I would really love to see a snapcase for the quadra. I dont use any "hardcase/bag" for my Ranger RX, the snapcase is enough for normal travel(car).

Fiddling with the menus isnt as fun as you might think, good thing is that you rarely change anything once you set the unit up.

The swivel mount is similar to the D-lites, not that sturdy, still sturdy enough for the smaller modifiers you will use on the bare head. I havent recived the adapter yet, but from what iv seen its the same design and most likley not hold anything larger (comfortably) then the 100x100cm softbox.

Other then that its a great unit, nice build especially considering the weight and size. The supplied cable is a bit short, i will buy the 3,5m cable when it becomes availalbe.

Integrated skyport is nice, and the 3,5mm sync socket is very welcome since i use PW aswell.

The led light is suprisingly bright and daylight balanced, genius simple genius.

In all its a good compliment to my Ranger RX speed.

Im sure i have more opinions once i have put it thru it paces in the field.

[MR do little]

David and Goliath

http://www.lindqvist-photography.com/showcase/quadra_rx.jpg

[TMR Design]

David and Goliath

http://www.lindqvist-photography.com/showcase/quadra_rx.jpg

Pappa bear and baby bear. :D

[Aszental]

Kayell in melbourne just got a set in, going in next week to have a look.

Now the big question, quadra's or rangers :P Mainly doing outdoor family portrait work.

[pnmd]

David and Goliath

http://www.lindqvist-photography.com/showcase/quadra_rx.jpg

So pretty.
So jealous. ;)

[Rudi]

Kayell in melbourne just got a set in, going in next week to have a look.

Now the big question, quadra's or rangers :P Mainly doing outdoor family portrait work.

Outdoor work? Fully-grown Ranger! Unless you can pick the time of day for every single client and job, you will eventually need more power than 400Ws.

[Hermes]

Outdoor work? Fully-grown Ranger! Unless you can pick the time of day for every single client and job, you will eventually need more power than 400Ws.

I think the decision is even simpler than that.

Is the Ranger RX physically too big/heavy for you to work with? if yes get the Quadra, if not get the RX.

I cant see any real reason to get the Quadra other than needing to have less weight/bulk. It's a big investment either way and the price difference is small enough that I can't see any serious location photographer buying the Quadra just to save a bit of money.

[MR do little]

Saving money certainly isnt reason to pick up the Quadra lol

Size/weight is though.

The RX speed can do everything and more, apart from being smaller and lighter that is.

I would get a RX speed first, i will eventually get another RX speed, and maybe a quadra pack to depending on how i like it.

[Bumgardnern]

I really want to get on one of the Quadra packs. I wanted another Ranger RX Speed but I think the Quadra will fit the bill.

[poopinmymouth]

I crafted my own protection cap from 8cm diameter black pipe from the hardware store. Very durable, doesn't look too DIY, and lightweight. I'll post a photo tonight. I'm also almost done my own speedring to mount to Chimera softboxes, made entirely out of aluminum off-the-shelf components, using only a drill and a rotary tool. I'll describe that process too.

My biggest complaint so far, is that my LED is NOT daylight balanced. A friend brought his head over, and we photoed ours next to each other. His looks white, mine greenish/yellow. The dealer is going to take it back for another head, so that's good, but something to be aware of.

Also, Wescott umbrellas can be used on this. Just buy a 6mm diameter aluminum rod, chop off a piece, wrap one end in tape, and jam it into the wescott hollow shaft. Now it will slide right in to the Q-head. I've already done a shoot this way.

[MR do little]

I wish everyone would have their real name in the signature, i somehow dont feel comfortable calling someone poop in my....

Anyways i would love see that diy cap. I really hope Elinchrom see the error of their ways and get a protective cap out asap.

Until then i will try to make my own, so any ideas inspiration is most welcome!

Thanx.

Just went out and got a bag for the quadra kit(for times when i just gonna use it with the standard reflector or with the 18cm Q reflector.

Ill post some images later tonight.

[eduardofrances]

Hey Eduardo,

You've quoted the wrong person. I never said that. It was conserv that asked about different umbrella shafts and I gave some explanation.
Ooops! sorry Robert didn't noticed it at the I was replying time :)

[MR do little]

Went out to find a bag for my Quadra today.

Criterias was as following.


Top loaded
"Soft bag"
Small enough to carry on your should with your hands full
Hold Quadra pack +acessories


So i went into one of the largest photo retailer in Sweden, and where lucky enough find out that they had a Quadra pack on display wich i could use while going thru all their bags. .-)

Finally settled on the Lowepro Nova 200 AW (http://products.lowepro.com/product/Nova-200-AW,2107,20.htm)

Im very pleased with it, and the Quadra fits nicely in it along with acessories. Plenty of pockets to put pocketwizards, shoulderstrap, synccables, lightmeter etc.



Outside
http://www.lindqvist-photography.com/showcase/nova200_1.jpg

Inside As you can see im still waiting for the adapter and 18cm reflector+grid.
http://www.lindqvist-photography.com/showcase/nova200_2.jpg

[MR do little]

First quick snap with it, didnt have much time today. Hopefully ill get some more time this week to try it out.

http://www.lindqvist-photography.com/showcase/zack_za24-70_1.jpg

[TMR Design]

Hey Paul,

I'm wondering whether Tupperware, Pyrex, or Rubbermaid make a plastic lid that would fit over the front of the Quadra head for protection. WIth all the plastic containers out there I would bet that there must be one that matches and can be used. I don't think I'd be comfortable carrying those heads around in a bag, even with compartments. One wrong move or bump and there goes the flash tube.

[MR do little]

Yea im gonna get bizzy tomorrow finding a solution, will also call my dealer and pass on my feelings regarding the lack of a protective cap.

Outer diameter of the standard reflector is 14cm, if anyone got any tips/ideas.

[roanjohn]

I've said it before and I'll say it again.....but it's ironic that the BXri, RX series monoblocs comes with protective cap and no reflector when these lights usually live on lightstands in the studio and the Quadra heads - which are meant to travel comes with a reflector but no protective cap. Come on Elinchrom!!

[MR do little]

I hear you!

Let's hope Elinchrom does..

[Rudi]

My two RX600 strobes, which came in an Elinchrom-supplied kit, inside an Elinchrom hard case, came with two umbrella reflectors instead of protective caps.

[MR do little]

Yes the to go set dont include the protective cap, one still have a choice to buy one for pocket change though, not so with the quadra.>:(

[Rudi]

I was just gong to say that I'd rather get the umbrella reflectors for free than the protective caps. :D But there should be protective caps made available for the Quadra heads...

[MR do little]

Yea the protective cap cost ALOT less then the umbrella reflector. :D

I talked to the Nordic agent for Elinchrom, while they didnt know for certain that a protective cap was in the pipelines, they said that its most likley is one soon..;)

I will try to make my own tonight, well together with the wifes sewing skill, if i get something that works ill make sure to post it.

[symbolphoto]

Help me understnd something here please. I'm new to Elinchrom.....

Why can't a Ranger RX pack, power two 600RX's again? I've already purchased the Tronix... but i just don't get why the RX pack and 600's can't work together.

[TMR Design]

Help me understnd something here please. I'm new to Elinchrom.....

Why can't a Ranger RX pack, power two 600RX's again?

Because the Ranger pack is part of a pack and head system. The pack will power heads that are not monolights with built in power transformers, capacitors and electronics. All the electronics are in the pack.

RX strobes are monolights that have a built in power transformer, capacitors and electronics and must be powered by standard wall outlets or an inverter that allows you to plug in a grounded 3 prong plug.

[symbolphoto]

Because the Ranger pack is part of a pack and head system. The pack will power heads that are not monolights with built in power transformers, capacitors and electronics. All the electronics are in the pack.

RX strobes are monolights that have a built in power transformer, capacitors and electronics and must be powered by standard wall outlets or an inverter that allows you to plug in a grounded 3 prong plug.

Gotcha... and elinchrom doesn't offer anything to power monolights from the RX series outside because they expect you to keep them in the studio and purchase Ranger series equiptment for outdoors?

[TMR Design]

Gotcha... and elinchrom doesn't offer anything to power monolights from the RX series outside because they expect you to keep them in the studio and purchase Ranger series equiptment for outdoors?

No, Elinchrom doesn't offer an inverter to power AC powered strobes. Their approach is that you either use monolights where you have access to electricity or you use a Ranger where there is no power.

This is why many of us that shoot RX's and other monolights are using the Tronix Explorer XT or the Vagabond II.

[MR do little]

Gotcha... and elinchrom doesn't offer anything to power monolights from the RX series outside because they expect you to keep them in the studio and purchase Ranger series equiptment for outdoors?

Yes not much sense for Elinchrome to offer a inverter since they have a full lineup of strobes ranging from compacts, powerpacks and batterypacks.

The companies who offers inverters (strobe manufacturer) dont have a real batterypack system to offer. ;)

[symbolphoto]

Cool.. just wanted to make sure i wasn't crazy. Reading up on Elinchrom for 10 days straight is certain to drive anyone nuts. We got our 600's in yesterday. 69" and DT in tomorrow, and explorer XT whenever that is ready...

[MR do little]

Well here is my diy cap for now. Made out of a plastic lid, and a messengerbag. I cut out some fabric from a old messenger bag and put the lid between two sheets of fabric, some elastic string and i was done lol.

Not beautiful i know lol, but practical and will protect the flashtube when its in the bag. So for now until i find a better solution or Elinchrom get their head out of their...it will work.

Sorry for the poor snap.
http://www.lindqvist-photography.com/showcase/q_cap.jpg

Im sure there are plenty of better looking diycaps so please share them.:D

[poopinmymouth]

Here's mine. Hard plastic, very durable. I'd have no qualms throwing this into a backpack. I like that it's large enough to rest stabley on the front. The outer ledge makes for easy removal too. It uses the Elinchrom retaining lugs the same way the reflector does.

http://www.mr-chompers.com/net/blog/cap.jpg

I've also got a shot of my in progress speedring. It might look heavy, but everything save the bolts/screws is aluminum, so it's extremely light. It fits into the small Chimera black frame perfectly.

http://www.mr-chompers.com/net/blog/ring.jpg

Few more shots on the blog:

http://mr-chompers.blogspot.com/2009/06/littlepreview.html

[Hermes]

My two RX600 strobes, which came in an Elinchrom-supplied kit, inside an Elinchrom hard case, came with two umbrella reflectors instead of protective caps.

I was amazed to find that a couple of my RX kits had no protective caps when they arrived too. I called up my dealer and politely suggested where they could stick their £700 monoblocs with no caps, and lo-and-behold they couriered me free protective caps for all my strobes the next-day.