Well I just got my silver 86" PLM and what a nice modifier. It is Huge, I shoot speedotron Blackline (fv 202 and 206 heads). I know the V2 Plm is made for AB and Elinchrom strobes. I plan to use the speed ring on my heads. I could use the shaft like an umbrella but I prefer to be different and make my own custom bracket.
Here are shot shots to show what I am running up against.
The protective glass cover for the strobe and modeling lamp is allot bigger than the Buff or Elin stuff . The glass cover hits the 3 little bars of the PLM speedring before it is flush with the focusing collar. I thought of just making a spacer to fill the gap, but I want to be able to fully focus the light via the collar. The spacer would cover the bulb, and I thing I need to be able to fully expose the the bulb (full barebulb).
What I was thinking I may do is drill a reflector (three holes) and make it the baseplate of the speedring. I dont know if a reflector would be strong enough, as a baseplate of the PLM is steel, the reflector is Alum. I dont want the bard to twist. So I my try to completely make one out of Steel.
I have also considered mounting the baseplate of the PLM speedring to the collar of my 202/206 and make 3 new rods that are bent to fit around the glass globe then welding it to the top attach point where the PLM shaft threads the rod with the Big Bolt (the one with no Screw Driver to secure it ;), What a crock of Shiet from FM about that)
Here is what all of the parts look like before I start my process of modification.
The main goal is to be Strong as Original, Fully function within the limits of my lights. lastly not look like Harry home owner with his golden screw driver attempted to Macgyver it together. So no Duck tape, zip ties, glue, silicone, or Tupperware is going to be used to make my PLM work as the V2 was intended to.
I haven't completely made up my mind how I am going to so this, but I will update the progress here, just encase some other Speedotron Blackline owners want to do the same without all the trial and error.
Nothing against AB lights, they are awesome $ for $ no one will give you more. Thanks Paul for developing such an awesome modifier as the PLM V2 the catch light it creates is so wonderful, I haven't even had a chance to fully test it, but it is coming soon.
PS I was turned on to this modifier from a YouTube video review test from John Ricard, I was on thr waiting list for what seems forever, but now I have it. and I plan to keep it inside and not loose it like Zack Arias to the Wind.
