Stofen vs 430EX onboard diffuser for direct flash work

I was just wondering about this issue..

When firing the flash directly at a subject, I've experimented with pulling down the 14mm diffuser panel to create a softer light even though I don't need the angle of coverage it provides. It does produce a noticeable, substantial softening of the shadows behind the subject for the situations where I can't bounce.

Is there any difference between this method and using a Stofen omnibounce to diffuse the light in direct flash mode? I'm just wondering whether to buy it.. if it provides better diffusion in direct mode than the panel, I'd consider it, if not, it's one less piece of gear to pay for and carry.

I'm aware this is not the intended use of the Omnibounce. In bounce mode, I'm very happy with the results from my bounce card with rubber band

are you using a flash bracket or is the 430 on the camera? I have the omnibounce and 430 w/bracket. If you want a sample pic let me know how your set up.

Eric

i have the stofen omnibounce. i think it works much better than the panel. but it cuts the flash alot so sometimes when there isn't anywhere to bounce the light, i use the panel.

you can be really cool, and wear a cap with a white reflector and turn the flash head 180 backward and bounce it off the cap reflector!

Thanks for the feedback

Eric, a sample would be great. I'm using the 430EX on the hot shoe, no brackets. I usually shoot horizontal (landscape orientation) to avoid the side shadow effect.

And someone gave me a white cap just yesterday