Lighting Dilemma - Should I get a Strobist Kit (Manual), or a 580EX II (TTL)?

[robojack]

I currently have a 430EX, and am looking to venture into off-camera lighting.

However, after the Strobist website, I am now confused as to whether I should invest in a manual strobe kit, like the one at http://www.mpex.com/page.htm?PG=STROBIST2XKITS (http://www.mpex.com/page.htm?PG=STROBIST2XKITS)or if I should just get a 530EX to act as a master (and my 430ex as slave).

I probably won't be doing much event photography with these, but more individual and location photoshoots.

[v35skyline]

get the manual strobe kit. problem with using the 580/430 as master/slave is that they need line of sight and will not always fire if it's too bright outside.

[jeromego]

get the manual strobe kit. problem with using the 580/430 as master/slave is that they need line of sight and will not always fire if it's too bright outside.
^ +1 on that.

[gonzogolf]

Go strobist. I personally think everyone with a canon camera ought to have an ettl flash to use on their camera for when you get trapped into shooting a kids birthday party or some other event. But when you migrate from the camera it really doesnt make much sense to spend $400 on a flash when it would get you 2 vivitar 285hvs, stands, umbrellas, and cheap triggers. Trust me I've gone the whole off camera ettl route and there are a few benefits, but honestly not enough to justify the costs.

[colormaniac]

Yes. Unless extreme portability is your biggest concern (laziness to chimp or to use a meter being the second), go strobist.:)