Portable Big Light System -- is AB an option

Looking to upgrade my main portable single light system from a 580 EX II with Radiopoppers to something more substantial.

Initially, I was looking at the quadra or the Qflash, but it doesn't look like I can get into that system for less than $1400. That got me thinking that I might be able to simply add the new vagabond lithium battery to my current AB's, and get a similar setup in power, with a small sacrifice in portability.

Other than size/weight, what tradeoffs might I be missing?

I was using 580/550 flashes for location work now I am only using AB800 with VML. Most of what I shoot is single person shots and I don't shoot during mid day times so AB800 works for me. I may move to Einstein one of these days.

The biggest thing I can see is the ability to remotely change power settings( not sure what your shooting or what AB's you have) so this may or may not be an issue.

With the Cybersync Commander and the CSR+ you would be able to remotely control the power of your ab800 from your camera!

Controlling power is an issue -- jrx studios supposedly allow you the ability to do it, but even if its not smooth, not sure its worth $1000 to do it.

BTW - What you plan to shoot?

Portrait work.

mattograph wrote in post #12941501
Portrait work.

sorry I meant how many people at a time?

spend more money now, take more pictures later.

spend less money now, take less pictures later when you spend more research time, effort, and money to upgrade.

kalieaire wrote in post #12941830
spend more money now, take more pictures later.

spend less money now, take less pictures later when you spend more research time, effort, and money to upgrade.

???

SPANGLISH.....

I use a 4 light AB kit with 2 37'" Octoboxes, stands, and so on. Everything fits into a nice rolling bag and in the trunk of my car.
I carry it with me often on shoots and though it is a bit bulky it is portable enough to be portable. I skipped the Vagabond and went with a pure sine wave converter that I can power off my car if I can get it close enough to the shoot or a small battery.

bobbyz wrote in post #12941533
sorry I meant how many people at a time?

Groups up to say 12 people.

mattograph wrote in post #12942011
Groups up to say 12 people.

Then I am thinking multiple lights atleast two of any kind you decide to buy.

bobbyz wrote in post #12942033
Then I am thinking multiple lights atleast two of any kind you decide to buy.

Got that covered with 5 ABs for the big stuff. What I am looking for is a portable one light setup with some omph and some staying power.