Repair 420EX or buy new 430EX/580EX?

My Speedlite 420EX recently stopped working (would not turn on no matter what I would do), so I sent it in to the Canon Factory Service center in NJ. Just got the estimate back quoting ~$107 to repair the unit and send it back to me. I'm debating on whether to repair the 420EX or decline the repair estimate and use the money I'd spend to repair the 420EX to put toward buying a new 430EX or maybe even a 580EX II. I will be doing quite a bit of indoor shooting in the coming months, so I need a flash either way. This flash will be used with a 30D body, if that makes any difference.

I'm looking for any opinions one way or the other as to whether I should just repair the 420EX I already have, or is it worth it to upgrade to the 430EX or 580EX II? What features would I not have if I keep the 420EX? Are the 430EX or 580EX II worth the incremental price?

Any insight would be greatly appreciated! Thanks.

If I were in your shoe, I'd get a 430EX or, if budget allows, a 580EX. If you spend the money to have the 420EX repaired, there's no telling what else might go wrong with it that might require the flash to be sent back for repair again.

yep. I think that if I had to spend more money on an old flash, I would buy next generation. 430EX is not that expensive, and it will be a fresh addition to your gear bag.

Would 580EX or EXII be nice? Sure. More expensive too. Question is, even if your 420 was not broken, would you already upgrade to the 580 anyways.

Most people I see out there go for the safe rule. Get the most powerful light out there, and then use 10% of its power. Very true with studio lights, etc. Real question is, do you need the extra 15 Guide number on a flash?... (from 430 to 580 = 150, 15 Guide).

Anyhow, best of luck, and it does seem that you pushed this 420ex as far as it would go.

Cheers,