I wanted a few extra fill flashes for my studio set up. That is currently 2 x Bowens GM500Rs and I x GM250R. All connected with Pulsar radio triggers.
My initial idea was to get 2 optical cells from FlashZebra and the respective hotshoe adapters to take mini jackplugs so my two Canon 430EX II could be triggerred by the Bowens monolights. Obviously everything is totally manual.
The cost was $72 including shipping. Flash Zebra correctly fill in customes values. So there is an addition duty/sales tax of $18.
Total $90. = £60.
My only concern was could these cells short out etc. and damage the Speedlites etc. seemed unlikely as they run off the flash power pack.
Then I saw a Yongnuo YN 460mk II on amazon for £45 delivered.
On location going with the YN460 II gives me 3 speedlites, nice albeit one is manual only. No ettl2 or HSS, but if just raw power was needed this is a boost.
In the studio I would only get 1 extra not 2 lights. But less setup hassel with hotshoe adapters, and it is £15 cheaper.
Plus absolutely no risk of damge to Speedlights.
Adding the YN460II to the outside 430mk IIs, augments the weaker solution, as the 3 Bowens inside the studio are way powerful enough on their own, its just about targeting and lighting direction.
So which is the better option?

