Replacing Metz 54MZ3

[TonyK]

The Metz 54MZ3 on my Canon 20D gave me fits at the Austin Doll Show on Saturday. I've not sent in the unit to have it reprogrammed for ETTL2 so I only use automatic or manual.

I own a Vivitar 285HV which I could use though none of my light modifiers will fit it.

But I was thinking of buying a new portable flash. Which one to get, Canon 580 or Promaster 7500 v2.

I played with the Promaster on Saturday. ETTL2 works but requires you to do a pre-flash from the camera to get the right exposure. (a manual process). The local shop sells this for $200. There is a place in Tyler that also sells it but they don't have an online store.

I played with the 580 some time back and it just worked. No preflash required before taking the picture. (the pre-flash does not manually have to be done). The local shop sells this for $449.95 and B&H has one for $390.

What do you folks think?

[Talvan]

I would go with the 580, if you dont I think you will wish you had later.

[Kronos]

Are you going to manually preflash before EVERY shot you take with that flash just to save a few $$? I wouldn't.

[TonyK]

The 10D required the manual pre-flash for every shot.

I see what you mean though with the newer system. But its not just a few dollars. We are talking the difference of $200 and $390. I am going to look at the Vivitar again and also the Metz. I may take the time to send the unit in for reprogramming and see if that solves the problem.

[mattchase]

I would say the Metz is worth trying to reprogram, but would avoid the Vivitar. Other than the old standard (283 / 285), I haven't been happy with most Vivitar flashes I have used, especially not the newer electronic ones. They are not worth saving the money, even though it is a fair amount more for the Canon flash. So the best scenario would be for the Metz to get reprogramed for just a few bucks...otherwise I would vote for the Canon.

[TonyK]

I own the Vivitar from the Oly E10 days.

I can use it while the Metz is being reprogrammed.

My question really boiled down to buy the Promaster 7500 v2 or the Canon 580EX.

I am leaning to the Canon 580.