Want new lights... Various Topics to discuss

So I want some new lights - currently using Flashpoint 320M's and 430 EXII's.

I shot my first wedding and I'm looking to improve my lighting control.

First, my camera looked like a science experiment. I shoot a 60D so no PC port. I have the cheap Mieke MK-RC7 triggers. I also have a flash bracket. So, I had a PC Port PC adapter shoe, which I connected my Trigger through a PC Cord and had that Velcro'd to my strobo frame. On top of the PC adapter, I had my ETTL cable, to my 430 EXII, which was on the strobo frame. I was triggering a Flashpoint 320M, and an additional 430 EXII. The problem is, I suspect, is the PC cord does not transmit a "half press" command which would wake up my receivers. So everytime I wanted to take a shot, I would either have to take two, or press the trigger button on the Tx first so flash's were awake in order to get a flash for the shot from my OCF's. This was a complete pain. Not to mention, the flash's would go off and people thought I had taken the picture.

So - I'm looking for the best solution that allows an on camera ETTL flash (though, I shot in manual because my alleged ETTL PC Shoe didn't send ETTL info), as well as trigger speedlights and strobes. My dilemma is, I would LIKE to be able to control either strobes or speedlights wirelessly (power levels). However, I really don't know yet what I prefer, strobes or speedlights. Do most shoot mixed? Or stick with one or the other.

I was considering the Alien B800 with the CyberSync, I just don't know how that plays with speedlights, and if the transmitter allows any way to send ETTL to a flash on a bracket. Perhaps that is silly and I don't need it? I shot in full manual all day, and didn't have much of a problem.

Any suggestions would be appreciated. I've seen the supposed Hahnel Viper that is supposed to be coming out, which looks great, but I'm wondering if gearing toward Speedlights is too limiting due to power.

I would like to use these lights for wedding, seniors, and family pics. Is dragging an AB800 and vagabond around too cumbersome?

Just read the PocketWizard info and Videos that appear that system will accomplish this, albeit with a serious dent in my wallet!

I've been looking around for triggers as well. Have you looked at pixel kings? That's what I'm leaning towards. They aren't too expensive and they allow ettl.

I am by no means knowlegable in lighting techniques but, I've been doing a ton of research lately for my own needs. The Pocket Wizard MiniTT1/FlexTT5 with AC9's and a AC3 will give you all the control you could ever want. You can have ETTL with your speedlights and control the power to your Alien Bees. Certainly not cheap to get started but it is the industry standard and they are upgradeable with firmware updates. Hypersync is an additional plus which is why I'm looking at these for my Speedotron setup.

Bob

Hot Bob - I did see that, and didn't realize until after making this post that they could control both the speedlights AND the studio strobes. Pretty powerful stuff. Pretty heavy price tag but may be worth it. My other alternative was going full Alien B cybersync setup because of the built in light meter and power. Not to mention it would be substantially cheaper. I just wonder if I would get tired of hauling them around vs speed lights....