2 x 430EX + ??

Just been sold a second 430EX for a very nice price.

As I already have a 430EX I was looking into getting an ST-E2 to enable both for Off Shoe to attempt a few studio type shots.

Is this set-up viable / usable what would the shortcomings be

It's more practical to get a 580ex I or II. You can fire two 430s from it AND you end up with another flash.

Edit: The set up should work with either ST-E2 or 580 as long as you're indoor (or close range if you're out) and there's line-of-sight between the master (ST-E2 or 580) and the slaves (430s).

If you can pickup a decent used 550EX, then you'll have the advantages that Shutterfiend mentioned but hopefully at a better price.

Personally, I think an Elinchrom Skyport system with 2 receivers and a few hotshoe adapters would be ultimately more versatile. You lose E-TTL control but gain the ability to use it anywhere, with most any flash unit or studio strobe.

If the "One who must be obeyed" allowed it, I would plum for the 580

shutterfiend it will be 98% indoor

Thanks