Cheapest way to do multiple flash setup

[booggerg]

What is the cheapest way to build a multiple flash units setup? Has anyone experienced with those cheaper SunPak flashes? Can I group a few of them together wired or wireless? Would I need a controller unit in the mix?

[KevC]

Many people like the Vivitar 283s...

[PacAce]

The cheapest way to do multiple flashes is to do it using sync cables. Attach a sync cable to each flash and then tie them all together to a multi-terminal sync adapter that then plugs into the camera sync terminal. The disadvantage with this setup, obviously, is the hazard of tripping over all those sync cables.

[SkipD]

As an electronics technician, among many other avocations, I would suggest that you never tie more than one flash to the camera's sync terminal. This could cause problems and even destruction of some circuitry. Always fire one from the camera and slave the rest. You can also use infrared or radio slave systems. Bottom line is only one thing directly connected to the camera, and make sure the voltage presented to the camera is within the range of acceptable trigger voltages specified by the camera maker.

[booggerg]

So given all the troubles with wired setup, it's probably easier to go with the 550+420 speed light setup?

[SkipD]

So given all the troubles with wired setup, it's probably easier to go with the 550+420 speed light setup?Depends on what you want to do with the rig. If you're setting up a studio, you could do a lot better with something like Alien Bees monolights with stands, umbrellas, or whatever. The price actually beats the hotshoe flash units. They are not as portable, however. You need to define your application.

[booggerg]

I'm definitely not setting up a studio and would expect more use on-location..