Used 580EX or new 430EX II??

I haven't been at this forum long, but I wanted to ask this question: What would be better, a used 580EX for $350, or a new 430EX II for $279? I shoot a T1i, and just getting into semi-serious photography. I am still a little new to flashes, and don't have that much cash, so I figured I ask about what would be a better value.

Thanks so much for reading/replying!


Ken

580 used. It's more versatile and you won't regret extra capability. I went the 430 route. It's a great flash, but now I wish I had the 580 since I've gotten more serious about it.

nes_matt wrote in post #11790758
580 used. It's more versatile and you won't regret extra capability. I went the 430 route. It's a great flash, but now I wish I had the 580 since I've gotten more serious about it.

Thanks for the info. I wasn't sure if I was missing anything with the "II" in the 430EX, as opposed to the "non II" in the 580EX. I told the guy selling the 580 that I was interested.

Thanks again!


Ken

There are other options as well, the nissin di866 or the metz 58 AF-1 would be even more versitile. They have a second strobe that can be used as a filler flash. The nissin has the easier to use interface, follow by the metz. The nissin is 329 new.

The 580 is awesome.

The seller is off CraigsList. He had 3 for sale, among other gear. He said he had 2 left. After tomorrow he will probably have one left...

Thanks for all of the quick replies!

Ken

RobertMang wrote in post #11791040
The 580 is awesome.

But what is the difference between the EX and EX II? I don't really have the extra cash for the EX II, even though I can get it on Amazon for $449. I am thinking from what I read that I should be ok. I am not doing anything serious yet, but hope to be later this year.


Ken

shoturtle wrote in post #11791020
There are other options as well, the nissin di866 or the metz 58 AF-1 would be even more versitile. They have a second strobe that can be used as a filler flash. The nissin has the easier to use interface, follow by the metz. The nissin is 329 new.

can 580EX II control that nissin or metz wirelessly as a slave?

Yes, they will control each other, the metz 58, nissin di 866 or the canon 580 exii will all control any flash that is design to work as canon wireless e-ttl slaves. All 3 of the flashes I mention can be masters. Just set up the groups and channels. And off you go to the world of wireless e-ttl flash system

shoturtle wrote in post #11791151
Yes, they will control each other, the metz 58, nissin di 866 or the canon 580 exii will all control any flash that is design to work as canon wireless e-ttl slaves. All 3 of the flashes I mention can be masters. Just set up the groups and channels. And off you go to the world of wireless e-ttl flash system

I have a 580EX II on a way, i was thinking about buying two 430EX II later on to be used as slaves. but now i'm thinking maybe 3rd party would be better slave.

Yes, you can use the nissin di622 or the metz 48 or 50 as a slave. I am not a big fan of the quality of the yongnuo, but the 580 should control the yn 467 and 468.

I'm surprised nobody ever mentions the Sigma 610 super that came out last fall. It's the price of a Canon 430EX with the power and specs of a 580EX.

Well sig has a bad track record with compatibility, Know someone that was left out in the cold when upgraded to a new body, and the flash did not qualified for a rechip. End up getting a new flash at full price. While the 550ex or 420ex will work with the newer body.

shoturtle wrote in post #11791313
Yes, you can use the nissin di622 or the metz 48 or 50 as a slave. I am not a big fan of the quality of the yongnuo, but the 580 should control the yn 467 and 468.

thanks, when i'm ready to buy slaves unit, i will start a threat to see what recommended at given time