PCB Einstein + Mola Beauty Dish + Adapter?

JakAHearts wrote in post #16423128
That doesnt sound easy at all.

Only in the sense that one doesn't have to plug the MC2 into a computer load the utility change the parameter, download the new firmware to the MC2. etc.

If one wants, or needs to combine Einstein or AB with speedlites the ControlTL system is a workable option.

I never really did that. I use the Einsteins for studio work, the speedlites for events and the Cheetahs for on-location sessions where I want portability for off camera flash and more power than the speedlites can deliver.

If someone would figure out how to combine the Canon 600EX-RT electronics with a Cheetah Light 360 they would own the market.

I combine my eintstein with speedlights all the time. Theyre super easy to setup and are then able to be metered separate from the einstein. To me, the cyber commander is the only option for an einstein user.

JakAHearts wrote in post #16423805
I combine my eintstein with speedlights all the time. Theyre super easy to setup and are then able to be metered separate from the einstein. To me, the cyber commander is the only option for an einstein user.

Presuming you're using the Buff battery receivers.

I agree. works well. I did it at wedding receptions until I quit using the Einsteins.

JakAHearts wrote in post #16423805
I combine my eintstein with speedlights all the time. Theyre super easy to setup and are then able to be metered separate from the einstein. To me, the cyber commander is the only option for an einstein user.

How do you trigger your Einsteins and speedlights together?

InterMurph wrote in post #16423933
How do you trigger your Einsteins and speedlights together?

CSRB+ receivers.

JakAHearts wrote in post #16423970
CSRB+ receivers.

Can they control the power level on speedlights?

No, they cannot.

JakAHearts wrote in post #16424007
No, they cannot.

That's why I bought the Pocket Wizards; I love being able to control the power from the camera.

Just wanted to make sure that my decision wasn't based on faulty research!

No problem. I fully intend to upgrade to a few more einsteins so I stuck with the CC.

InterMurph wrote in post #16422932
To select the top range, manually set the power on your Einsteins to 640WS, then set the dial on the AC3 for the corresponding zone to +3 stops, then power cycle the Einstein.

To select the top range, manually set the power on your Einsteins to 2.5WS, then set the dial on the AC3 for the corresponding zone to -3 stops, then power cycle the Einstein.

Strobo wrote in post #16423498
To use the lower power range you could also set the AC3 to full power, then dial the Einstein power from full to -2 stops. No need to power cycle.

Edit: No need to set the AC3 to full power. To access the lower power range just reduce the Einstein power level by exactly two stops, to go back to full power raise the Einstein power level back up exactly 2 stops.

Awesome. I feel like I'm finally ready to make the jump to studio strobes. How exciting! Thanks for all the help.

Here is the latest revision to my shopping list. I will sit another day to think things through and pull the trigger tomorrow. I hope I didn't forget anything!

PCB
- [LINK] Einstein E640 Studio Flash Unit
- [LINK] Vagabond Mini Lithium 120VAC

POCKETWIZARD
- [LINK] PocketWizard® PowerMC2
- [LINK] PocketWizard FlexTT5 Transceiver Radio Slave for Canon E-TTL II System
- [LINK] PocketWizard AC3 ZoneController for Canon DSLR

MOLA
- [LINK] Mola Demi 22" Beauty Dish Soft Lite Reflector (White)
- [LINK] Mola Speed Ring for AlienBees
- [LINK] Mola Opal Diffusion Glass (7.125")
- [LINK] Mola Polycarbonate 20° Grid for Demi V2 22" Reflector

SUPPORT
- [LINK] Avenger A2030D 9.8' Turtle Base C-Stand Grip Arm Kit (Chrome-plated)
- [LINK] Avenger D600 Mini Boom (Chrome-plated)
- [LINK] Avenger E700 Baby Drop Down Pin (Chrome-plated)
- Two 15lb Sandbags (buying locally)

Why the Mola beauty dish ($270) instead of the Buff model ($80)?

InterMurph wrote in post #16424309
Why the Mola beauty dish ($270) instead of the Buff model ($80)?

Whenever I would search Beauty Dish X vs Beauty Dish Y discussions through Google, I would find unanimous agreements that the current Buff BDs are nowhere as good as their old models.

After further research, I am siding with Mola for durability and the light feathering that their ridged dish design produces. I also read that there are other similar dishes that are cheaper, such as Kacey's 22" BD, but what interested me about the Mola was the option to modify the central diffuser by stacking an Opal Glass Diffuser on top of the Perforated Aluminum Diffuser. I think I will enjoy all the possible customization and options that the Molas offer.

I also read that the central diffuser for the Buff dish is not actually part of the dish itself and must be separately attached to the Einstein's umbrella mount? I think I would prefer my dish to be one solid piece.

Lastly, the Mola can transition to future strobe setups if I were ever to upgrade to another brand such as Profoto.

If you're thinking about taking your light outside, give a serious look at the Kacey dish. Very similar light to the Demi, but lighter and less susceptible to damage.

chris_holtmeier wrote in post #16424447
If you're thinking about taking your light outside, give a serious look at the Kacey dish. Very similar light to the Demi, but lighter and less susceptible to damage.

I agree the Kacey is awesome and perfect for location work. Its light, very durable and can be set up for any studio flash or even two speedlites. I sold my Mola

I will think about the Kacey dish. The Mola is very tempting right now since I can order it with all my other gear through BHPV in a single order. Kacey's website on the other hand, has a "busy" notice and states that orders might take awhile to process. I'm not sure if I'm willing to wait that long. Also, their amateur website and sloppy content organization makes me feel VERY uneasy about ordering and receiving the correct parts... Perhaps I will get a Kacey dish sometime in the future. I need my instant gratification right NOW!

On another note, I am interested in the Sekonic Litemaster Pro L-478DR Light Meter.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but this device has "Wireless Flash Power Control." If I use this device, does that mean that I will not be needing the PocketWizard AC3 Zone Controller?