5D3 and 580EX2 or 600EX? Also 600EXRT Freqs?

[moda]

Hey guys,

I'm thinking about upgrading to a proper canon speedlite (will use the 565EX for 2 light OCF setups when I get my **** together and buy some softboxes/umbrellas and triggers, gonna get some Phottix Strato 2s) to go with my 5D3.

Do you guys reckon for the 5D3, the 600EX is worth the extra ~$200 or so, or should I just get a 580EX2?

The main thing that I could see the benefit going to the 600EX is the increased zoom range (to 200mm) and the AF Assist beam specifically for the 5D3 AF spread.

Has anyone used a 580EX2 on the 5D3? Does the AF assist beam work fine? If it does, then I figure I may as well get the 580EX2.... right? I probably won't use the RT system on the 600EXRT, will probably just get some manual triggers and be done with it. Wonder if the 600EX non-rt is much cheaper/available.... hrm.

Also, does anyone know if the frequency range for the RT bit of the 600EXRT is changed for the various regions? IE if I imported one from the US/UK/HK, would I have any issues with using it in australia/using the STE3 from australia etc?

So yea, thoughts guys?

Thanks.

[dmward]

Canon decided to use the ISM frequency band. That means there will be no problem using devices purchased in one country with devices purchased in another.

Most radio triggers work in the ISM band. The noticeable exception is Pocketwizard which choose to license a specific frequency band in the US and a different band in other parts of the world.

Your other questions boil down to personal preference.

[moda]

Originally Posted by dmward

Canon decided to use the ISM frequency band. That means there will be no problem using devices purchased in one country with devices purchased in another.

Most radio triggers work in the ISM band. The noticeable exception is Pocketwizard which choose to license a specific frequency band in the US and a different band in other parts of the world.

Your other questions boil down to personal preference.

Ah ok, true. That's good to know, means I'm not worried about importing one if I decide to get one.

Anyone used a 580EX2 on the 5D3? How is the AF assist lamp?

Now I gotta decide what sort of lighting set up I go with.

I want to get myself a basic lighting kit. Figured I could use the 2x speedlites as sources plus wireless triggers. Pretty much set on the Phottix Stratos as triggers, but i'm not sure what else I should get?

I think for the rest of the kit I will probably go for cheap stuff.

Lightstands and umbrella/flash holders are a given. But what else? Maybe a couple of different umbrella types and a softbox or something?

Anyone got any thoughts?

Thanks

[drvnbysound]

Originally Posted by moda

Anyone got any thoughts?

If you decide to go with the 580EXII be sure to check the classifieds here, they are being posted almost daily. Seems that a number of others are upgrading to the 600's.

Here is a similar thread for additional info: Was about to get PocketWizards and 580EXII's. Now 600EX announced. Need help.

[siddr20]

I have used the 580exii on the 5d3 without any problems, even in the dark. Focus beam works just fine.

[moda]

Originally Posted by drvnbysound

If you decide to go with the 580EXII be sure to check the classifieds here, they are being posted almost daily. Seems that a number of others are upgrading to the 600's.

Here is a similar thread for additional info: Was about to get PocketWizards and 580EXII's. Now 600EX announced. Need help.

True, i've checked out that thread and still no idea what I should do haha. Can pickup a 580EX2 new for around ~$500 or so, but can pickup a 600EX for around ~$640 or so. Aaahh!

Second hand i've seen 580ex2s sell on a local forum for ~$350-400.

Originally Posted by siddr20

I have used the 580exii on the 5d3 without any problems, even in the dark. Focus beam works just fine.

Ok cool, so the focus beam covers the entire af spread/is bright enough?