Difference between these Westcott Softboxes

[BigBlueDodge]

I'm in the hunt for a softbox and was looking at some of Westcotts. I see that they have two difference 36x48 softboxes. Can some of you "in the know" tell me what the difference between these two softboxes? There is a significant price difference, but I can't tell where the two are different.

Westcott Photo Basic 36x48 $79.95
http://www.adorama.com/WE3648SSBX.html

Westcott 36x48 $194.95
http://www.adorama.com/WESS36.html

As best as I can tell, the $195 version has 4 heat vents instead of 2, and has a removeable front panel, while the cheaper version does not. Are those features worth over 2x the price of the cheaper version?

[TMR Design]

The first one is for flash only. The second can be used for flash and continuous (hot) lights. The second one has heat resistant materials. The vents on the first one are there because even with strobes, if you're using the modeling lights, it can get very hot, and some strobes will over heat and either become damaged or a thermal shutdown will trigger and you'll have to wait for the temperature to drop before you can use it.

[BigBlueDodge]

so, for my Genesis 200 strobes, then would the first one work fine? Or will I be able to use the modeling light with it, or is the modeling lamp considered "continuous" and melt the internal baffle in the first (cheaper) version?

[TMR Design]

You should have no trouble at all with your Genesis 200's and you can use the modeling light. Although the modeling light stays on it's not considered continuous lighting. Typically continuous lights are of much higher wattage and generate significant amount of heat. Use the vents if you find it's getting very hot and there's nothing that says the modeling lights must stay on. Once you have your lights set you can turn the modeling lights off to reduce heat.

[alabama1980]

I just bought the more expensive one myself only with white interior instead of silver. Supposedly the more rounded design will diffuse the light better and more evenly. Also the rods are stainless steel and have a lifetime warranty.

I can't say anything else about the difference but I can say that I'm really happy with mine.