Used Speedlites

I've been looking at flashes for a couple weeks, trying to decide if i want to spend $200 on a 420EX. I'm ruling out the 430EX because it really doesn't seem worth the extra $100+ to a G6 user.

It occurred to me to look at B&H for used flashes, and I'm seeing the 430EZ (not ex) at around $100, and the 540EZ (not ex) for a little less than the cost of a new 420EX

they also have schloads of 199Ts and 299Ts for less than $100.

Any of these worth considering? It seems that maybe the old 540 might still be better than a new 420 for the same price, especially since many of the newer features don't work on a G6 anyway? Or should I just shut up and buy the 420EX before they sell out everywhere and I get stuck buying the 430EX?

Bryan

bryan,

I'm pretty sure the EZ series of lights will not give you ETTL features with the G6. So the camera will not be able to control the intensity etc. I could be wrong but i seem to remeber limitations with the older flashes. Using the even older flashes can be dangerous, see here http://www.botzilla.co​m/photo/G1strobe.html

FYI i bought my used 420EX from BH (they have them occasionally) for $140. Oh and it's been the single best accessory i've bought my for G3!

I just bought a 420EX to use specifically with my G5, and to use as a slave to my 550EX when shooting the 10D. So far it's been absolutely wonderful.
-Bruce

This is your buy:

BNIB Canon 420EX Speedlite TTL Shoe-Mount Flash (Guide No. 138'/42 m at 105mm) USA. Never opened or used. $165, plus shipping.
PM or email me at neule@wcl.american.edu

It's in marketplace.

Ive just started looking at flash units as well. What about the sigma EF-500 DG ST? According to one sales rep that i spoke to, this is better value for money.

Also, can someone plz send a pic of what a G-series would look like with a 420 flash or something similar. Does it not look "stupid" when the flash is bigger than the camera itself?

I wonder why you should be concerned about 'stupid' looks.
I had a G2 with a 420 and the flash is ridiculously big compared to the camera but the result it gives was very good. So I never minded how it looked.

Hans

The big flash just seems more fitting (excuse the pun) with the bigger body of a SLR. For me the G-series would look very strange with the big flash, as well as teleconverters/wide angle converters.

Dont get me wrong, i love my G6, its compact and i can carry it anywhere, until i get the teleconverter and flash. Then it will become just as bulky as a normal SLR. Propably as soon as i buy the flash, i would then want to convert to 20D or 10D.

Whats do all you other feel that have already purchased the flash and converter kits?

I have been incredibly pleased with the results from my 420 and G6. The 420 has elevated the indoor pictures from this camera to another level. I also ordered mine "used" from B&H for $140, and it was an absolute steal at that price. It actually arrive refurbished by Canon, and in perfect condition with all accessories.

As to the appearance, it really does not look bad with the G6 due to its size, but in fact looks very impressive. My G6 and flash generally draw jealous looks from friends and family who think it is an impressive rig. Sure the 420 looks more "right" with an SLR, but it doesn't stop me from using it with the G6.

I have the flash and the lens hood. I use a small Tamrac backpack. The flash looks klunky but helps me take great pix, so.........

As to which flash, there are many choices. The 420ex works with the camera. Others may or may not. For me, there isn't enought difference to justify taking a chance on something else. I bought mine before the 430ex came out, so my choice was simpler. If you think you might upgrade to a Canon dSLR in the future, you might want to consider the 430.

The 420ex is $179.95 at B & H.
The 430ex is 299.95

Whoa........

What you need it a Canon EX flash or the Sigma 500 DG ST Super (better than the 'non-super'. Basically has the added functions of the 550EX and offers hi-speed synch)

The EZ versions and most third-party flashes (unless specifically compatible with the EX series) will only work fully manual on Canon digital cameras.

That means that the cheapest possible would most likely be a used 380EX (don't bother with the 220EX, it'll not give you much more power over the built-in flash)

Best regards,
Andy

Thanks everybody, good advice! I didn't even think to look at the marketplace section here.

Bryan

i'll try to find a picture of it on my G3, i strongly suggest the lensmate adaptor tube--even if you don't have any lens adaptors. it protects the lens, but it also gives you something to hold on to when steadying the camera. which is a big deal, the external flash is pretty heavy, it will tip the camera forward!

I saw this post on concerns about UGLY and could not resist. I know this is a Canon forum and I have since upgraded from my previous camera to a G6 and love it. I got lots of grief from my family about this setup but I got some great shots. There was clearly no electronic feedback for the flash so I needed to develop a "feel". As you might tell I like to tinker. Nikon 775 w/tele & IR filter on internal flash, Wein HSHSB (great product), infrared remote flash sync, Vivtar 283 (200+ volts trigger) on my homemade holder (aluminum shelf brackets make great stock for this kind of stuff). I had also made a shutter release cable holder out of the aluminum for the 775 but the G6 remote eliminates the need.

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By the way - I use the Wein HSHSB and Vivitar 283 on my G6. The Wein reduces the 283 trigger votage to less than 4 volts.