B800 w/softbox question.

I see a local ad for a AlienBees B800 and softbox for 300$. Estimated 300 flashes use.
(it might come with a stand, I'm not sure)

How long is the lifespan of a bulb? I was going to get a softbox and another speedlite, but this kind of looks like a better long term solution.

I'd be immediately using for a headshot shoot. (I'd use my 622s to trigger a speedlite off to the side and I'll use a sync cable to trigger the B800)

Thank you!

D

Paul C. Buff says the estimated lifespan is 250k shots, so if it's a relatively new unit you should be fine for a couple years to come. The real question is how its been handled... if the owner has taken care not to touch the bulb it should be fine, and replacements are only $35+shipping.

Thanks. I've never used anything but speedlite before... Does my set up make sense?

It does make sense. You'll get a lot more light pushed through a soft box using a B800 compared to a speedlite. But I'd find out what size soft box he is including, with anything medium in size (36"ish) being likely the most versatile.

Just remember that you will have to find an outlet wherever you go and you will not have TTL when using the 662 and the B800. Also, I'd look into buying an off camera receiver that works with the 662 to trigger the B800 remotely (I hate having sync cords in the way).

Teeth; Another 622 would do the job no? I was considering this for the future anyway.

I think it's not a bad deal... a stand/light/softbox for 300. I'll see if he's willing to negotiate.

Now my main question is whether I want to be tied down to the AC source. I guess I can get a battery pack right?

Also... I'll be limited to my sync speed right?

Thanks again for all the help!

No problem at all.

I don't use 662's, but they're marked as transceivers... so yeah, another would work. Your best option for taking the flash off the outlet is to pick up a used vagabond mini lithium from the forums here. It'll run you around $230(ish), but you'll gain a reliable mobile power source. And yes, you'll be limited to 1/200, so narrow apertures in bright daylight will require ND filters.

Sounds like a pretty good deal as used B800s go for roughly $240-280 here.

whoops

Oh wait... so the B800 will also do a "manual" optical sync? That would be helpful.

The optical sync on alienbees are on the back of the unit (facing away from the direction of light and concealed by the housing). In short: the optical sync is unreliable at best.

Do your next shoots with your hardwired sync cable then pick up another transceiver when you have the funds.

Thanks... will do.