Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

Hello Paul and Friends,

I am moving back to the CC from the PowerMC2/FlexTT1 with the Sekonic L-748DR for metering/control.

When the above setup worked it was great. However, I did not find it to be consistent. One major issue was consistent updates from the meter to the Einsteins. Not hearing the update "beep" was experienced too often during shoots. Once this occurred, I had no idea what power level the light was in and would have to stop, climb a ladder or lower the lights, check the level, putz to make sure it worked, then apologize to the client and continue with the shoot.

Recently one of the PowerMC2 units stopped working completely(less than a year old too!). Yes, I am aware of the shocking issues with these.

I previously owned a 1st generation CC(no external antenna) and some receivers for old AB units but decided to order new CC and transceivers now that I own three Einsteins.

So, I ordered up a new Cyber Commander(had the first gen), CyberSync Trigger Transmitter(putting the CC on the camera isn't a good workflow IMO, and three CyberSync Transceivers.

Spent time today updating my Einsteins to the latest firmware(from 3.1) and re-aquatinting myself with the CyberSync workflow as I have to photo sessions tomorrow!

One huge improvement would be making a handle of sorts or a case with a handle to mount the CC.

The CC is so small it is tough to hold and press the meter button. Even smaller hands have a tough time. For now I have placed it on in a locking cold shoe that is mounted to a Manfrotto 013 Double-ended Spigot. This gives me something under the tiny CC to firmly hold as I press the meter/fire button with my thumb.

WHAT would be even better is a dedicated meter/fire button in the usual spot for light meters! On the upper right side.

The lower right meter/fire button can be problematic if you accidentally press it to the side before pressing it in for a meter reading.

PLEASE include 1/3 stop increment adjustments in the next firmware too! Being able to adjust the light by 1/10 increments is nice, but takes too much time.

I shall return and report how the new meter/trigger setup works both outdoors and in studio.

Thanks Paul and friends!

Two words sum up my experience going back to CyberSync solution: Reliable, Predictable.

Place the sync button on the side of the CC and BOOM! you have the perfect product. Otherwise its near perfect.

The only annoyance is the right side joystick is not a joy. Half the time I ended up pressing it to the side which takes the CC to the modeling light setting or the CC settings.

Sync only button on the side of CC v.3 and you have perfection.

The CC worked flawlessly with the three CyberSync Transceivers, and the CyberSync Trigger Transmitter fired the lights every time I pressed the shutter button.

Oh and gaining full range of control over the output of my Einsteins is superb.

I realize this is the wrong forum, but I have three PowerMC2 modules, four FlexTT5 units, one AC3 zone controller, and one FlexTT1 for sale! I will use the extra cash for more Buff goodness!