Speedlite 220EX vs. Sunpak PZ40X

I'd like to get an external flash for my G6, but the 420EX and 550EX are simply too big and cumbersome. The G6 is the ultimate available-light digicam (with its fast f/2~f/3 aperture) and I rarely have use for a flash, anyway, except for fill work at close distances. If I have anything really important to shoot with a bigger bounce flash, I'll use my EOS film system and 540 EZ.

So, I'd like a smaller, throw-in-the-bag unit for those times when I'd like something morso than the dinky built-in flash. I like the 220EX as it will work with the Off-Camera Shoe Cord (I have two of those!), meaning I can get it off the camera, but it can't bounce; the Sunpak PZ40X has bounce.

What would you suggest? These flashes are about the same in cost. I assume you can dial in the flash exposure compensation with the 220EX.

Another related issue is whether or not the Sunpak could be adjusted by the flash exposure compensation on the G6 (I doubt it). If not, I will stick with the Canon flash as this feature is invaluable for fill-in situations which is the main reason for having the smaller flash unit.

Opinions are in short supply on the Sunpak, anywhere, so I decided to get the 220EX. I didn't need a super-powerful flash unit, just one that could supplant the built-in one and provide adequate fill-in coverage at close distances.

I already have the 540EZ for my EOS film camera system, where I certainly need a unit with more power and flexibility

Sorry SuperBaldGuy, I thought this was the same post as before where I could only offer you a meager opinion on battery and capacity.

I second your choice of using the 220EX for your stated purpose. I'd check the 540EZ out at this link if you have not already:

http://www.botzilla.co​m/photo/strobeVolts.ht​ml

But I don't think the 220EX will be able to use the G6's FEC, so that may be an issue for you. Check out this link:

http://eosdoc.com/manu​als/flash/ETTLDx/

No problem.

Too bad the 540EZ couldn't work on a digital camera.

Ok, it has no bounce... but you can bounce it if you are holding it off-camera with your hands or with a proper arm... and point it to the ceiling, walls, whatever....

Yes, I could do that although its modest power would mean using higher ISO's.

The nice thing about the Canon Speedlites are the little touches - like auto power shutdown after 90 seconds and instant on if you touch the shutter release........