A77 and F42 AM flash gun functionality query

[Paul W]

Is there any functionality I will miss with the F42AM compared with the F43 and F53 models in terms of controlling other flashes - I have just ordered one but could return it if there are key differences in wireless control

I understand about the head rotation and power differences, but its more about running multiple flash guns and setting ratios. I might get another A42 if wireless control is all OK and just as sophisticated at the A43/A53. If not I may return it...or keep it as my secondary gun if it can be controlled fully by an F43/53


Many thanks,



Paul

[David Kilpatrick]

The 43 acts as a a controller - the 42 does not, it is only usable as a remote. So yes there is a very big difference. The 43 is like a mini 58, the 42 is like an updated 3600.

David

[Paul W]

David,

Many thanks for your confirmation. It means I will stick at the one I just bought (instead of buying another) and maybe one day acquire the 43.

The reason I will keep it is that I bought it from Curry's for just £125.60...labelled as 'used ' but arrived fully boxed and as new with a 3 month guarantee. They have multiple copies if anyone is interested. Initially I didn't see the used statement...but figure these are returns of clearance...I was just checking there is no general compatibility issue that might cause many returns. I'll report when I have a chance to test.

There are apparently more than 10 still available at http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/ws/eBayISAPI. ... OC:GB:1123 if anyone is interested


Cheers,



Paul

Thanks again

[Paul W]

As I understand it the A43's Wireless Ratio Control makes it possible to select light emission ratios for up to three separate flash units. I guess the remaining question is can the F42 be controlled by the F43 in this way - if not I might return it.
David, do you know the answer?
If it can - the Curry's deal make this a worthwhile secondary light

[David Kilpatrick]

The F42 unlike the earlier F36 and the KM legacy models can be controlled by either the F58 or F43 in three groups. One group can be your on-camera flash (CTRL1), you then have two more available (RMT1 and RMT2) which can be set to different powers.

So with one 42 remote, you can just set the on-camera flash and the remote to different powers. You can do the same with other remote flashes, using the 43 on-camera, so for a single remote wireless flash it really doesn't matter much which you own - even an old 3600HS(D) will work. But the moment you add a third flash, if all your remotes are 42, 43, or 58 you get maximum controllability in ratio settings.

David

[Paul W]

Many thanks again David...