What Flash Gun for a portable westcott apollo?

[Liazon]

Hi all, I want to dive into using a softbox in a extreamely portable sense to keep in a car when i know i will be doing shoots. I want to take a small flashgun and use it in a westcott apollo, but the problem is im thinking too hard in using brand new high end flash guns! Could i get results i want with something like a 430ex or a Vivitar 285hv like using it 2-10 feet from subjects? What flash guns do you think is up to the job?

Im thinking of having the Sigma 30 DG Super new or used or a new Metz 48 or 58 instead of a 580ex II. I have been told not to look at these flashes on paper since real life usage will vary much. I was also recommended to get a the older 580ex, since its 1-200 dollars cheaper than a exII and is about the same performance.

Please keep in mind i just want to have good recycle time and the BEST power output i can get to do with a portable flash gun to do the job. What do you think is most suitable?

[Liazon]

BUMPPPPP this shouldn't be a hard question to answer with 40+ views and no comments.

[bobbyz]

If you don't need eTTL than any manual flash will work. Personally I will take 540ez over 430ex if doing manual flash only as I can then power it with external pack like cp-e4.

[Liazon]

Never knew of this flash! Have you has experience with it? Recycle times not so bad if i use 1/1 power?

[TMR Design]

If you're only doing manual off-camera flash then you should look at some of the older Nikon Speedlight's like the SB-28 or the SB-80DX. They are usually available for about $100 on the used market and are excellent quality. They can be powered with some of the ebay Yongnuo battery packs as well as Quantum Turbo batteries.

[bobbyz]

Never knew of this flash! Have you has experience with it? Recycle times not so bad if i use 1/1 power?

1/1 power is little over 1.5-2 seconds when using external pack. I use both 550ex and 540ez. Get the ebay knockoff pack like Robert mentioned.