Best low cost alternative to 580ex II

[AberyClark]

I cannot afford, at the moment, the Canon. Just curious about opinions on other brands

[aerosmith9110]

Nissin digital di 822 - cost 220 usd? not sure..

[e02937]

I would think stepping down to the 430EX II would be a good option.

[Guapo]

I got a Metz 58 AF-1 for $250 used and couldn't be happier.

Shutterbug's review head to head:
http://www.shutterbug.com/equipmentreviews/accessories/0208canonspeed/

[PacAce]

I cannot afford, at the moment, the Canon. Just curious about opinions on other brands

Check out the Sunpak and the Sigma E-TTL compatible flashes. If you want most of the features of the 580EX II including the ability to wirelessly control remote slaves then your only economical option would be the Sigma EF-530 DG Super.

[Muskydave22]

I got a mint 580ex on FM for $240 shipped and pp'ed awesome deal if you ask me.

Dave

[PacAce]

I got a Metz 58 AF-1 for $250 used and couldn't be happier.

Shutterbug's review head to head:
http://www.shutterbug.com/equipmentreviews/accessories/0208canonspeed/

A Metz 58 AF-1 for $250? Is that brand new? The 58 AF-1 would be a very good alternative to the 580EX II if you can get one at that price, new or used. B&H currently sells it for $370 with the instant savings.

[Guapo]

It was used, but you couldn't tell it from brand new. Not a mark on it.

They're a bit hard to find used, but deals are out there. I was close to buying a Sigma 530 to replace my 500 that was not compatible with my new 50D. I happened across this deal and jumped at it.

[carguy4471]

I have 2 sigma 530DG Supers and I love em. Full ettl fuctionality, can run as master or slave with eachother or with canon flashes as well. More powerful than a canon 430 and nearly as powerful as a 580. Got mine on amazon for about 2 bills.

[AberyClark]

It seems to be a mixed bag with the Sigmas are far as reviewers are concerned. But, I rarely snap on camera flash photos. If I'm in a pinch, I would like to have TTL auto capability. The Sigma probably fits that bill percfect.

[Liazon]

For the 530DG flashes or even the metz, could they still control a 430 ex II? Or the other way around if you upgrade to a 580exII can the sigma and metz be controlled by the 580?

Also do you all think if you used radio triggers that have TTL function if you used a 430ex II and 530DG will they work in TTL?

Thanks! These are good options indeed!

[carguy4471]

For the 530DG flashes or even the metz, could they still control a 430 ex II? Or the other way around if you upgrade to a 580exII can the sigma and metz be controlled by the 580?

Also do you all think if you used radio triggers that have TTL function if you used a 430ex II and 530DG will they work in TTL?

Thanks! These are good options indeed!

As far as the first question goes, yes. Sigmas can control canons and the other way around.

Second question, I'm not sure. Given the answer to question one, I would assume a ST-E2 could control sigmas but I am not sure on this. Give sigma a ring. Their tech support guys are usually easy to get a hold of and have been great with the couple questions I called about.

[Guapo]

For the 530DG flashes or even the metz, could they still control a 430 ex II? Or the other way around if you upgrade to a 580exII can the sigma and metz be controlled by the 580?

Also do you all think if you used radio triggers that have TTL function if you used a 430ex II and 530DG will they work in TTL?

Thanks! These are good options indeed!

In regard to the Sigma DG, be sure you get the Super, not the ST. The ST lacks manual controls.

To answer your question, both the Sigmas and the Metz can control or be controlled in a Canon system. I do not know if the radio TTL triggers can control either, though. Poverty Wizards work fine.

[Todd Lambert]

I picked up my last 580 II from a guy on Craigslist - brand new in box, the guy didn't know how to use it. Got it for $300.

I bought my second 580EX II for #325 used on here - also like new.

My first 580EX II I got for $350 bucks with the Canon rebates.

I'd seriously look at getting a used one, you can find good deals if you're patient and a bit vigilant.