Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

Im going to be buying my 2nd AB light in the next few weeks and not sure what to get. I currently have the AB800 and not sure if I should get a 2nd ab800 or get the ab1600 and just lower the power.

Still in the learning stages, so I will mostly shoot inside. But can the 1600's power be lowered down enough to work with the 800 without causing color balance issues?

If it wont I will probably get it. Also debating on a 2nd 800 and getting a 400 for a background light. But thats something I will decide later.

The 1600's are only one stop more powerful, thus only a 60 degree cooler color shift when at the same output as an 800. However, under what conditions will you be shooting, and at what aperture? Unless you need a very small aperture, or have high ambient light, the 1600 may be overkill. have you ever had the 800 at Full, and needed more?

TS

No, but eventually I would like to work outside and be able to use smaller aperatures. But for 1 stop, I may just stick with an 800 for now as it would probably be overkill. And in the future if I need the extra power, look into purchasing that.

Thanks! That was the answer I needed to know.

dont forget, with the Bees, you can upgrade the power within the 1st two years for $25 and the difference in cost. Additionally, we have new higher output reflectors that will compensate for lower powered flashes.

TS

Im actually getting the PLM system for both lights within the next couple weeks. (or when they are off backorder :D )