Paul C. Buff, Inc. Technical Forum

I've tried unsuccessfully to attach medium and large sized modifiers to my 3 brand new v2 Einstein lights.

I've attempted to attach a Creative Light Octa using their speed ring. It didn't work well as the bevel on the flange was too deep. I modified it (filed it down considerably), which improved the "attachment"...but it's far from stable.

I attempted to attach a 22" BD--also unsuccessfully. I'm unwilling to suspend it above anyone for fear it will slide off (which it tends to do at most angles).

I've ordered PCB speed rings, but fear that the proposed modifications of longer retaining fingers and more spring tension on the Einstein lights are absolutely required for a solid clamp.

Will I be able to retrofit my 3 lights with these new parts (when available)...or will I need to return them?

Best,
Stephen

Our quick field solution can be employed by you, however, the full fix will need to come in as it requires disassembly of the lights.

And what might that be?

I might be wrong but I think the quick fix is basically your big old rubber band idea.

Well, there's actually a Version 2 of the Rubber Band fix. Instead of ordinary rubber bands, I used black latex exercise tubing. It's stronger, and doesn't look nearly as cheesy ;)

As an aside, PCB (as a company) would be doing their customers a favor if they improved communications on this issue. There are a lot of questions, and responding to a series of posts only confuses those who are searching for useful and consistent information. Why not consolidate by putting answers in one place? Perhaps an Announcement would be appropriate, either in the Tech Forum or on the main PCB website. Things that should be addressed:

1. How has this affected V2 shipments, both domestic and international?
2. If V2's are still shipping, is the clamp issue being mitigated with a temporary fix? If so, describe the temporary fix.
3. Have you contacted V2 owners to determine how pervasive this problem really is? If not, why not? If you have, then what are the statistics?
4. What is the plan for a permanent fix, and how will it be implemented?
5. Will V2 customers eventually have to return their Einsteins? If so, will their Einsteins be repaired & returned, or will they be replaced with new units?
6. Will PCB proactively contact V2 owners regarding replacements, or do we have to initiate something?
7. How is it possible that this defect wasn't identified BEFORE the units were shipped?
8. Describe "Our quick field solution".

viewtopic.php?f=8&t=954

There is a sticky on this topic with all information we have at the moment.

This issue wasnt caught because not all units have a problem, and it is next to impossible to test 100% of them.

I received an email on Thursday from PCB that outlines the V2 clamp issue and how it is being addressed. It was an excellent writeup that responds to the questions that have been asked on this subject, so many thanks for putting it together. I would like to see it posted on the forum.

Posting it here is redundant as all owners who already have a unit will get/have gotten an email, and those who get one new are both told upfront about the issue and have the instructions included.

Hey, we're photographers....redundancy is a good thing.

Seriously. With more than 450 views, there are bound to be people following this thread that can't be pigeon-holed into one of the categories you mentioned. Don't you think they would appreciate knowing how this issue is being resolved? Redundant? Whatever......