550 EX Question

Currently I have the Mecablitz 54 AF-1 C. A feature I really like on the flash is High Speed Synchronation, which allows me to use the flash at faster shutter speeds than just 1/200. I was wondering if the 550 EX has High Speed Sync ? I a short time I will have 20D and a Sigma 70-200 F/2.8 and maybe a 500 EX. Thanks in advance.

Yes, Canon 550EX does that (page 32). I don't know what any 500 EX is, though.

---Bob Gross---

As Bob Gross said, 550 EX does high speed synch, but since you are going to have the 20d "in a short time" you might want to consider the 580 EX, which supports ETTL-II which is something new for the 20d and I believe the other two Mark II bodies currently out.

It is not just the flash that has/needs it. The camera has to have the ability. Many of the Canons do - EOS3, both of the Mark II models. Do not have the 20D so do not know. Make sure to check the camera specs. Some debate it's usefulness and say it does not work as true e-ttl. I can not answere that. What it will do is allow you to get the shadows off the face of a backlit subject or blur the background with a higher shutter speed and still expose the subject decently. I used it when I had to with the EOS3.

Another technique that works is to put an ND filter on the lens so you can get the background exposed properly at the synch speed your camera allows - you then set or allow the camera to set flash exposer for the subject.

I would get the 580 but I'm going on around a $3,600 (I'm selling my dirt bike). I have other things in mind that I'm going to buy and the reduced price of the 550 is nice.

ETTLII is a function of the camera body. The IDMII and 20D have it. All EX series flashes support ETTLII. The 580EX has the capability to use an additional two relatively minor aspects of ETTLII, White Balance and Distance Info corrected for the crop factor.
Scott