Cactus Wireless Flash Trigger System V4 vs. CTR-301P [Archive]

Mark Elberson

09-02-2009, 12:49 PM

<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: #000000; font-family: Arial;"]I am looking enter the world of off-camera flash via RF triggers. I am wondering if I should get my feet wet using an inexpensive triggering system such as the Generally I would be against spending money twice but I am leaning towards picking the Cactus Wireless Flash Trigger System V4 (http://www.gadgetinfinity.com/product.php?productid=17204&cat=274&page=1]Cactus Wireless Flash Trigger System V4 or just dive right into a more substancial system such as CyberSyncs?<o:p></o:p>

<u1:p></u1:p><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: #000000; font-family: Arial;)which could fire my 3 flashes for only $87.85 compared to $269.80 for CyberSyncs ("http://www.alienbees.com/remotes.html).<o:p></o:p>

<u1:p></u1:p><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: #000000; font-family: Arial;"]Sean, you got started using Cactus V2s right?<o:p></o:p>

<u1:p></u1:p><span style="font-size: 10pt; color: #000000; font-family: Arial;"]The truth is that whatever I get probably won't see a whole lot of action right now (5 month old son has that effect on things) but I would like toexperiement whenever I do have a free moment. That's why I'm leaning towards the cheaper units. I'm guessing that it would take me much longer to realize the limitations of a lesser product than someone who's really going to be putting their triggers through the ringer.

Chuck Lee

09-02-2009, 01:09 PM

<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana;"]I am looking enter the world of off-camera flash via RF triggers. I am wondering if I should get my feet wet using an inexpensive triggering system such as the Cactus Wireless Flash Trigger System V4 ("http://www.gadgetinfinity.com/product.php?productid=17204&cat=274&page=1)

Go for it. I've been using V2s since I started with "0" issues. At least that I've noticed. I did a small antennae mod and increased safe trigger distance to 75ft only because I had to shoot a night scene of a house. Otherwise, I'm not any further than 20ft away the rest of the time. I've used the V2s triggers a ton and haven'tneeded to replace the includedbatteries yet. I like the low profile transmitter and the way it looks mounted to the camera. I find myself alot of times shooting one handed with a Vivitar 285HV in the other. Just getting the flash off of the camera and being able to manipulate were the light is coming from makes a big difference. Of-course, an off-camera cord could do the same. I've even laid the flash on a table or the floor. It's very liberating.

Also, don't forget the new RadioPoppers ("http://www.radiopopper.com/). Very economical. I'd have to say I may choose those over the cybersyncs if I ever consider an upgrade. Right now I'm more than happy with what I have and consider myself fortunate to have been able to obtain such a reliable triggering system at such a small price. I think I spent $85 for transmitter+ 4 triggers. I've had mine since January of this year.

Mark Elberson

09-02-2009, 03:57 PM

Go for it. I've been using V2s since I started with "0" issues
<div style="CLEAR: both"]</div>

Thanks Chuck. The V4s are supposed to be an upgrade so I would hope to share your same success. Like you, I would expect to be using these triggers from only about 20 feet away 99% of the time.

I just updated the thread name to "Cactus Wireless Flash Trigger System V4 vs. CTR-301P". I did a quick search on the forum and Sean referenced the CTR-301Psbefore. They are in the same price point as the Cactus triggers so I'm hoping to hear what people have to say about them as well.

I think at this point it's between these two triggers since I'm really looking for, how should I say, cost effectiveness ;-)

Joel

09-02-2009, 04:35 PM

I have a set of Cactus V4 triggers. To be honest, I was quite surprised by their 'quality'. The fire percentages is good. If you're just experimenting in a controlled environment (in which you can repeat the action if the triggers fail to fire) you should be all right.

Don't expect superb build quality, but they do with they are supposed to do, at a decent price-point.

Sean Setters

09-02-2009, 04:40 PM

Chuck:

Yes, I started out with the Cactus V2s units. They worked well for a while, but I was a bit rough on them and they started falling apart. They weren't very well made, and after a while they simply stopped working reliably. The Cactus V4 units are the next generation up from the V2s units. At first I recommended them based on the initial pre-release reviews. However, once they were released, there were numerous reports of faulty units. I stopped recommending them and started recommending the CTR-301ps because the reviews I could find on them were generally very good.

I bought a set of CTR-301 (non P) units and used them for a while. They worked reasonably well, but I tried to mod them to get more range and better batter life from them. After modding them, my units began acting very funny. They weren't as reliable as when I first got them. I still like the CTR-301p untis for a beginner for a couple of reasons--1) they don't require extra cords to connect the receiver to the flash (and don't raise the flash very far from the umbrella swivel), and 2) they have a built-in optical slave. I still keep the CTR-301s that I own in my gear bag. The optical slave makes them handy every now and then. In fact, you can use them in a couple of neat ways--like using a 580EX on-camera to do rear-sync or even pseudo high-speed sync using all your off-camera (non-Canon) flashes.

In the end, I decided that Cybersyncs were the best solution for me. I was using off-camera flash in almost every shoot I did, and getting a reliable triggering solution meantI spent more time getting the light output fine-tuned rather than worrying if my flash even fired in the first place. The new RadioPopper JrX units should be researched before buying mid-range triggers (like the Cybersyncs). They offer a few key features that will be important to many strobists. However, Cybersyncs are well priced and have been around for some time--they're tried and tested, and just plain work. I think purchasing the CTR-301p set is a great (inexpensive) way to go to get started. There are plenty of people who are quite happy with their Cactus V4s, but I've seen fewer complaints related to the CTR-301p units.

WAFKT

09-02-2009, 04:49 PM

WAFKT

09-02-2009, 04:50 PM

I purchased a few CTR-301P’s from ebay a few months back. The price was right and an affordable why to get into wireless triggering. I have had a few issues with them. They seem to work pretty well with my speedlites (the odd mis-fire (maybe 1 in 100), but acceptable considering the price I paid); most times it’s a case of my speedlites going to sleep. When I use them with my studio strobes however I have ran into more issues. I suspect that the sync cables may be faulty; I usually have to adjust the connection to get them to fire consistently. I went with the CTR-301P because many of the reviews of the Cactus V2 were not so great, and the CTR-301P’s stand up nicely on their own if you don’t have a stand. I’d recommend the CTR-301P (despite the issues that I’ve had) – but I haven’t looked into the Cactus V4 so I don’t know how they compare (looks like they’ll stand up on their own as well).

Mark Elberson

09-02-2009, 04:54 PM

I think purchasing the CTR-301p set is a great (inexpensive) way to go to get started. There are plenty of people who are quite happy with their Cactus V4s, but I've seen fewer complaints related to the CTR-301p units.
<div style="CLEAR: both"]</div>

Thanks Sean!

Sean Setters

09-02-2009, 05:09 PM

Of course, with ebay triggers (Cactus included), you'll get shorter range, less than 100% reliability, inferior build quality, and possibly the loss of shooting at your max sync speed (maybe 1/200 or 1/160 instead of 1/250). But for the casual shooter, they are a great way to get your feet wet. Only after experiencing those issues, and deciding that they do indeed cramp your style, should you shell out more money on the mid or highest pricerange triggers. :-)

Chuck Lee

09-02-2009, 08:06 PM

Sean and Mark,

You have to be really careful when modifying radio triggers. You can create a worse situation if it's not done correctly. I'm not saying Sean that you did anything incorrectly. The V2s mod is very easy "if" you know how to properly solder an electrical connection. The Vivitar battery modification is also easy if your careful and pay attention. I posted this mod a couple of months ago. Notice Sean that I've got the V2s straped with velcro tape to the side of the strobe. I have three strobes setup like this and I carry them around in a 8.00 duffle bag I bought at Wally-World. With thereciever straped to the flash, there's not much that can happen to it. I would not, repeat, not use them as a direct hot shoe mount. They're too weak. The only time I hook one to the bottom of a flash is if I'm doing creative stuff where I don't have time or the convience of a stand. That 4th Viv is AA powered. Markwhatever you decide to do will be a step in the right direction. Anything less than $100 for a trigger system for 4 flash heads is a bargain and should be approached as one. As a concession, I had to buy three corded hot shoes with 1/4" thread to mount the strobes to. That was an additional $33 plus shipping. That is an expense to consider. I think that goes for the Cybersyncs and Radio Poppers as well. The CTR-301p units appear that they do not need the additional hot shoe adapters. Nice.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u209/Lee_Photography/285HV_SLA-Battery/IMG_8628_480.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u209/Lee_Photography/285HV_SLA-Battery/IMG_8629_400.jpg

Sean Setters

09-02-2009, 08:31 PM

I love my mouse and I hate my mouse. I love my mouse because it has buttons on both sides in order to do the FORWARD & BACKWARD commands that make browsing so much easier. However, I hate my mouse for the very same reason. Once you've spent a long time filling out a textbox--and then you reach for you mouse and accidentally hit one of the buttons--you navigate away from the page and everything goes away. And that's quite annoying.

So, this is the condensed version of what I wrote. I never used the Cactus V2s hotshoe mounts either as they're poorly designed and executed (I didn't trust weight on them). You don't necessarily need the hotshoe connector if you're using Cactus V2s units and Vivitar 285HVs (as a newly purchased 285HV come with a cable that connects the flash to the V2s receiver). However, using other flashes makes that hoteshoe connector mandatory. The best thing I've found is Item #0128 Female Hotshoe with Miniphone Jack (female) ("http://www.flashzebra.com/products/0128/index.shtml) from flashzebra.

I was trying to learn how to weld and do the mods on the CTR-301s at the same time--I wouldn't necessarily recommend trying that. I screwed them up. However, I was trying to squeeze out more functionality out of them--more range and better battery life. Just the fact that I felt the mod was necessary (and having failed trying) pushed me over the edge--I bought Cybersyncs the next week.

Here's my setup for securing the Cybersyncs when they're being used:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3658/3463920293_d43fb59a68.jpg ("http://www.flickr.com/photos/budrowilson/3463920293/)

(It's a vent caddy from Wal-Mart. I put a grommet in it. I attach the hook (designed to cling to a vent) to a knob on my umbrella swivel.)

Chuck Lee

09-02-2009, 09:06 PM

Sean,

I forgot you showed this before. Excellent. Now have you looked at the Vivitar "lead acid battery mod" I did mine back in April and still haven't run out of juice. I'd say the use has been moderate. (500 plus on each)I posted photos here ("/forums/p/1133/7805.aspx#7805), and my mod still allows the transition back to AAs. Most mods say that you need to buy extra battery holders. I figured out an easy way around that. The LA Batteries were $8.00/ea from Battery Mart ("http://www.batterymart.com/p-6v-4_5ah-sealed-lead-acid-battery.html). The pouches were clearance sale compact camera cases from Wal-Mart. What I want now is a double or triple hot shoe mount so I can gang two or three Vivi's together and block out the sun or at least fire at 1/4-1/2 with full power intensity allowing for 1/2 to 1/8th the recycle time. Here's an offering from Lastolite ("http://www.lastolite.com/triflash.php). Have you seen any others worth considering?

Once you've spent a long time filling out a textbox

Dude, can't count the times. Spelling's my nemesis. (had to run spell check on that one)You know "mute" cough, hack.....LOL [:D]

Mark Elberson

09-02-2009, 09:11 PM

Chuck & Sean,

I have (2) Canon 430EXs. I could probably sell them and buy (4) 285HVs with the proceeds. Would you go that route or just save up and buy two more 430EXs? I'd like to have 4 flashes total so that I can have key, fill, rim and back lighting. In case you were wondering, my OCD will not allow me to have a non-matching set [:$]

Pros for the 430EXs:

More powerful
Faster recycle time
Lighter
ETTL capable

Pros for 285HVs:

Cheaper (can buy 3 for the price of one 430EXII)
Ease of manual control (changing the power on the 430EX sounds easy but it's cumbersome and annoying)

Rodger

09-02-2009, 09:51 PM

However, using other flashes makes that hoteshoe connector mandatory. The best thing I've found is Item #0128 Female Hotshoe with Miniphone Jack (female) ("http://www.flashzebra.com/products/0128/index.shtml) from flashzebra

I can't speak much into this topic as I literally just got my strobe kit yesterday, but for now I'm using Cactus V2s system on a stand with a 430EXII and this ("http://www.mpex.com/browse.cfm/4,378.html)little guy. The cactus receivers have a pc port in them that allows that pc-to-hotshoe adapter to work like a charm. I just bongo tie my receiver to the light stand and I'm good to go.

Like Mark, I have mild OCD with my lights. I'm craving two Vivitar 285HV's for strobing haha.

Hope I helped some.

-Rodger

Chuck Lee

09-02-2009, 09:52 PM

I'd stick with the 430's. Manual Power adjust is so much better than Vivitars. Vivitars have full 1/2, 1/4 & 1/16th. Can you say Neutral Density gel? Output is better and recycle time is about half. 430's are way better than Vivitars.

In fact Mark you'd be crazy not to go with the new radio poppers. You'll be able to adjust the output porportions right from the top of the camera. Dang, I need to get me some real Canon flashes. Check, but I'm pretty sure the rad pops will communicate with the 430EX (version 1 correct?) just fine. The reciever sits in from tof the IR input and communicates the settings with the flash. In-fact, I believe that you would have TTL output plus adjustable flash compensation per strobe. Please, someone stop me. I may be wrong but man the stuff you can do with modern electronics! Go for the Radio Poppers. I wouldn't hesitate as long as you get the output adjustable support for your 430EX units. It would be worth every penny and would take the hesitation out of buying e-bay triggers.

Shoot, this conversation would have gone completely different if I had known you had those two Canon strobes. Yet, It has evolved quite nicely......[:D] OCD can be very beneficial at times. More expensive..... Yes? LOL

Sean Setters

09-02-2009, 11:27 PM

I'd stick with the 430's. Manual Power adjust is so much better than Vivitars. Vivitars have full 1/2, 1/4 & 1/16th. Can you say Neutral Density gel? Output is better and recycle time is about half. 430's are way better than Vivitars.

Well, he just noted how cumbersome manual power adjustment is on the 430s. However, it all comes down to "..how much do you want to spend??" The 430EXs are better flashes. And if he purchased a 7D, he'd be crazy to give them up (ETTL control from the pop-up flash). Even without the 7D, being able to manually adjust the flash from a RadioPopper JrX transmitter is a very nice feature to have. For that particular feature to work, you'd need the RadioPopper Cube which hasn't been released yet (and given their track record of release time tables, it might be 8 months before it's released). I've heard someone mention that they'd like to try the Item #0135 Deluxe Canon Hotshoe with Miniphone Jack (Female) ("http://www.flashzebra.com/products/0135/index.shtml) from flashzebra to see if it'd work like the yet-to-be released Radiopopper Cube. If the TTL points are live (and not just dummy points), then the flashzebra option might just work.

All of that costs money--and not a small amount. Vivitars with traditional radio triggers work very well. They're relatively cheap, rugged, and it's a breeze to change the settings. I do carry an ND filter for the rare occasions I need 1/8 power.

There is no right answer. I built my setup over time. Vivitars, Cybersyncs, Lumopro supports, flashzebra accessories--they all work extremely well and they're perfectly priced for my needs. If you need to work quickly and hate walking around to adjust your flashes, then you'll likely spend your money on different items. Otherwise, just buy what you think will work. If in time you find out you want something different, write off the cost of your gear to a learning experience and buy what will work better. Sell the things you no longer need. It's more important to buy gear that isn't perfect, yet learn how to light perfectly with it. After you've got that down, then you can justify buying gear that makes the act of lighting more convenient.

Chuck Lee

09-03-2009, 12:21 AM

Even without the 7D, being able to manually adjust the flash from a RadioPopper JrX transmitter is a very nice feature to have. For that particular feature to work, you'd need the RadioPopper Cube which hasn't been released yet

Hmmm.... that's manual? Otherwise, use E-TTL with flash comp. with PX transmitter/reciever. Right?

Hold the Phone... Ouch!! I didn't look close enough. I thought the JrX would do the job. The PX reciever is $250/ea

In the words of the Church Lady......"Never Mind".........EDIT: (scratch that... I think that was Rosana Rosana Dana ...probably before your time. Unless you were a teenager in the late 70's early 80's)

Mark, Maybe try the CTR-301Ps with the 430Exs first. Sean's got a better point.

Sean Setters

09-03-2009, 12:35 AM

Hmmm.... that's manual? Otherwise, use E-TTL with flash comp. with PX transmitter/reciever. Right?

Yes, using the RadioPopper JrX transmitter while the Radiopopper JrX receiver is connected to the (as of right now non-existent) Cube, you will be able to manually adjust the power of TTL flashes remotely. It's not ETTL, but it's certainly faster than walking over to each of your flashes and making the adjustment manually. The Radiopopper PX transmitter/receiver simply bridges the gap between TTL flashes using radio waves to transmit the data between the camera and flashes (that's still a major accomplishment, of course, but it's very expensive).

Mark Elberson

09-03-2009, 09:33 AM

<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: Arial;"]Ok...I think I will keep the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"]430EXs[/b] and look to buy two more (hopefully refurbished from Adorama or used).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"] I also think I will start off with the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"]CTR-301Ps[/b].<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"] This will allow me to get started with what I already own (flash-wise) and hopefully by the time I out-grow them (if I do <span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"]<span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"]J<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: Arial;"]) the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"]RadioPopper RPcube adaptor[/b] will be available and I can invest in a set of <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"]RadioPopper JrXs[/b].<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"] The idea of being able to manually adjustmy Canon Speedlites or a set of Alien Bees Studio Strobes sounds awesome!<span style="color: black;"]<o:p></o:p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: blue; font-family: Arial;"]<o:p></o:p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: blue; font-family: Arial;"]The following is from the RadioPopper website:<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: Arial;"]<o:p></o:p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: blue; font-family: Arial;"]Compatible Devices: <span style="color: black;"]<o:p></o:p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: blue; font-family: Arial;"]Any strobe capable of firing via a sync port.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"] For EZset Studio compatible devices are any current Alien Bees, White Lightning or ZUES brand strobe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"] For EZset Strobe, compatible devices include any TTL / "Dedicated" flash for use with Canon or Nikon Camera bodies.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"] The EZset Strobe operation requires the RPcube adaptor which will be available for purchase in 6-8 weeks.<span style="color: black;"]<o:p></o:p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"]<span style="color: black;"]<span style="font-size: small;"]<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"]<o:p></o:p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: Arial;"]Based on this statement I believe that my 430EXs will work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"] I will try contact RadioPoppers though and ask specifically.<o:p></o:p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: Arial;"]<o:p></o:p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"]<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"]<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: red; font-family: Arial;"]“For EZset Strobe, compatible devices include any TTL / "Dedicated" flash for use with Canon or Nikon Camera bodies”<span style="color: black;"]<o:p></o:p>[/b]
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"]<span style="color: black;"]<span style="font-size: small;"]<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"]<o:p></o:p>
<p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;" class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: Arial;"]Again, I can’t thank you guys enough for all of your wisdom and helpful suggestions <span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-hansi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"]<span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"]J

Chuck Lee

09-03-2009, 10:40 AM

Mark,

All I ask is that you post a follow up so all of us can see how it works out. This is really good stuff. If I knew back in January, what I know now I would have opted for the CTR-301Ps.

Have fun with it!! [Y]

Chuck

Mark Elberson

09-03-2009, 11:28 AM

<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: Arial;"]Will do Chuck :)<o:p></o:p>

<span style="font-size: 10pt; color: black; font-family: Arial;"]Also, I emailed RadioPoppers and asked when the <span style="font-family: Arial;"]RadioPopper RPcube adaptor will be available and also if my 430EXs will be compatible. As soon as I hear back I'll post an update.

Oren

09-03-2009, 02:32 PM

Anyone know what's the max trigger voltage for the CTR-301P? I think I've read somewhere in the past that it was like 12V, but right now I can't find this info [:S]

Chuck Lee

09-03-2009, 02:55 PM

Anyone know what's the max trigger voltage for the CTR-301P? I think I've read somewhere in the past that it was like 12V, but right now I can't find this info

The CTR-301P is for strobes that use 12V or less for triggering. I found it here ("http://www.trademe.co.nz/Electronics-photography/Camera-accessories/Flashes-lighting/auction-233416353.htm).

Mark Elberson

09-03-2009, 02:56 PM

Anyone know what's the max trigger voltage for the CTR-301P? I think I've read somewhere in the past that it was like 12V, but right now I can't find this info /emoticons/emotion-7.gif
<div style="CLEAR: both"]</div>

<p class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana;"]Oren,<o:p></o:p>
<p class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana;"]<u2:p></u2:p>
<p class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana;"]This doesn't exactly answer your question but it's all that I could find. Below is part of athreadfrom a dpreview forum ("http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1025&message=32629185):<span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana;"]
<p class="MsoNormal"]<u2:p><span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana;"]
<p class="MsoNormal"]
<p class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana;"]
<p class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana;"]<span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana;"]<o:p></o:p>
<span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana;"]Per our engineer, it can be used on the high voltage flashes because the CTR-301 has an internal protection set. Should you have any problem, please feel free to contact me.
<p class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #0000ff; font-family: Verdana;"]<span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana;"]<o:p></o:p>
<p class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana;"]Thanks & Best Regards
<p class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #0000ff; font-family: Verdana;"]Emma<span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana;"]<o:p></o:p>
<font color="#000000" face="Verdana" style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "]<u2:p><font color="#000000" face="Verdana" style="FONT-SIZE: 9pt; FONT-FAMILY: "]
<p class="MsoNormal"]<span style="font-size: 9pt; color: #000000; font-family: Verdana;"]From: Hong Kong Yong Nuo Photographic Equipment
Sent: Monday, August 10, 2009 2:51 PM
</font></u2:p></font></u2:p>

<p class="MsoNormal"]

Oren

09-03-2009, 03:26 PM

Thanks Mark, I've already seen it, but my flash is 230V not 100V. Also, I've found by now some site which says 12V max - so one says it can handle 100V and the other says no more than 12V - one of them is wrong of course.

Sean Setters

09-03-2009, 04:31 PM

Just a side note: Per the manual, Cybersyncs can handle trigger voltages up to 300V. ;-)

Mark Elberson

09-03-2009, 04:34 PM

Sean,

Didn't you say that you have a set of CTR-301s? Do you have that manual by any chance?

Oren

09-03-2009, 04:45 PM

Hey Sean, yes I know they can, I also checked the new Radiopopper jrx but couldn't find anything about their max voltage.

After "re-thinking", I can't justify the price of either the Cybersyncs or the Radiopoppers as I have zero lighting stuff except one old flash and a DIY light tent right now.

Also, I barely have time to take new shots with my 50D and so I doubt how many times will I use this old flash with the Cybersyncs/Radiopoppers/CTR-301P or w/e trigger system I'll end up with (if at all).

If I end up with something with a low max voltage, what I'll do is building my own protector for the trigger - it is very easy and basically made of 2 simple and relatively cheap electronic stuff. I already have them here on my desk and I've already tested them with my old flash and they work just fine, all I'll have to do is put them in some nice box and add some connectors so I'll be able to quickly connect it to my flash and the trigger.

If anyone else is interested in this little "protector", you can see it here: http://www.carlmcmillan.com/images/Optoisolated_Adapter.GIF ("http://www.carlmcmillan.com/images/Optoisolated_Adapter.GIF)

Sean Setters

09-03-2009, 04:52 PM

Sean,

Didn't you say that you have a set of CTR-301s? Do you have that manual by any chance?
<div style="CLEAR: both"]</div>

I don't believe I still have the packaging that came with the CTR-301s.

If I end up with something with a low max voltage, what I'll do is building my own protector for the trigger - it is very easy and basically made of 2 simple and relatively cheap electronic stuff. I already have them here on my desk and I've already tested them with my old flash and they work just fine, all I'll have to do is put them in some nice box and add some connectors so I'll be able to quickly connect it to my flash and the trigger.

That sounds like a plan!

Mark Elberson

09-03-2009, 06:06 PM

Oren,

http://www.opusprophoto.com/images/products/accessories/syncprotect_thumb.jpg

Click to enlarge
(http://www.opusprophoto.com/products/accessories/general.html]This is supposed to be about $30. I read about it in the latest issue of SHUTTERBUG.
<h2>OPL-Sync Protect</h2>

<span class="imagefloat)

Protects your camera against flash discharge from 6 Volts to 400 Volts
(for protection greater than 400 Volts, use OPL WTS remote flash trigger system)
Reduces red eye by changing the parallax angle (angle of flash to the lens)

Oren

09-03-2009, 06:31 PM

Yes Mark, I know of this one too, but:

1. $30 is too high when your trigger is worth about the same and/or when you can build your own for $10.

2. I saw it on B&H before but the shipping will cost me twice of the device itself; and again - $30 for this little guy is way too much.

Mark Elberson

09-03-2009, 07:10 PM

Mark Elberson

09-03-2009, 07:30 PM

RadioPoppers UPDATE

Did Jessica answer my question?

A side note, the <span style="color: #000000;"]<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-family: Arial;"]RadioPopper JrX Receiver Studio <span style="color: #000000;"]<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-family: Arial;"]enables on camera control of power levels of "<span style="color: #000000;"]<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-family: Arial;"]any TTL / "Dedicated" flash for use with Canon or Nikon Camera bodies" where as the <span style="color: #000000;"]<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; font-family: Arial;"]RadioPopper JrX Receiver Basic does not.

From Mark to RadioPoppers:

Questions: Is the "RadioPopper JrX Receiver STUDIO" compatible with the Canon 430EX Speedlite? Also, when will the "RPcube adaptor" become available and how much will it cost?

From RadioPoppers to Mark:

Mark,

The JrX will be capable of triggering nearly any device via an appropriate mono cable adaptor. This may include mono to PC-Sync connectors to directly trigger 580EXII and similar flashes. It may be a mono to hot shoe adaptor for triggering flashes not equipped with a PC-sync jack, and it may be mono to other various connectors to attach to cameras or studio strobes.

Your JrX Transmitter, JrX Receiver Basic, and/or JrX Receiver Studio order will include long lasting CR123a battery for each unit, a cable for 3.5mm, 2.5mm or 1/4″ sync ports for the JrX Receiver Basic, and/or the cable for 3.5mm, 2.5mm or 1/4″ sync ports, RJ11 cable and 3.5mm plug for use with Alien Bees, White Lightning and Zeus.
We will have additional information on where you can find the cord and/or adapter you need for your set-up if it is not one of the cords and/or adapters that are included.

You may find more information on our JrX system and whole X System family of products on our blog http://radiopopper.com/blog/. And the RadioPopper Website http://www.radiopopper.com .

We are expecting the RPcube to be available in 6-8 weeks. We do not have an exact cost, but being that is an accessory we "expect" it to be in the $30 range, but please do not quote me on this as we are waiting for more information from Research and Development.

Thank you for contacting the RadioPopper Information Center.

Regards,

Jessica Delagrange ~ Customer Service Representative
/////// RadioPopper - Radio ETTL
/////// info@radiopopper.com
/////// www.radiopopper.com

Chuck Lee

09-03-2009, 09:50 PM

No............ She doesn't have a clue! What a shame.

Mark, Reply, and prefix "We the 1000 plus members of the-digital-picture.com forums will ask you once again...........please be sure to be educated and accurate with your response."

If radiopopper is serious then we should get an accurate answer.

Man the form letter crap is SO LAME!!

And from a company that is already behind the eight ball and wants to compete with Pocket Wizards.....Unreal.

Sean Setters

09-04-2009, 12:22 AM

Ok, this is quite off-subject, but I decided to try to add a mini ballhead to my spring clamp (basically making a DIY Justin Clamp). However, I thought I'd have a little more fun and see how much weight this thing could hold. I was decently impressed. Of course, I didn't actually include a way to trigger the flashes--but they could all be triggered optically quite easily (without adding much weight), or else one could be fired via an attached Cybersync, while the other two could be fired optically as a result of the first flash firing (as long as the Cybersync-connected flash was positioned a little behind the other two).

I feel like a mad scientist. The clamp will never be used like this--but it's fun to know what's possible.

/cfs-file.ashx/__key/CommunityServer.Components.UserFiles/00.00.00.21.08/_5F00_MG_5F00_7650-copy-small.jpg

Mark Elberson

09-04-2009, 11:32 AM

Pretty cool Sean! That seems like a lot for a little spring-clip to handle. What's that, close to 4 lbs total? That's a lot of fire-power!!

Sean Setters

09-04-2009, 11:46 AM

I'm really not sure how much weight it is. Of course, if the clamp were positioned on a vertical support (like a door), I don't think it would have been able to hold all that weight up. But as shown, it worked in that orientation.

lculpin

09-05-2009, 12:03 AM

I wouldn't hold my breath on the time frame for the cube... I asked RP 2 weeks ahead of their supposed release of the PX system how that date was looking, as was told that they'd definitely be "on time"... and then something like 3 months later they were finally released. Similar with the JrX system.

Speaking of the JrX, i just got my transmitter and studio receiver in the mail (and my third PX Receiver) and will post impressions once I've used them.... first thing I noticed was that the JrX Receiver was WAY bigger than I expected... I had kinda been thinking about the size of my keyfob for my car alarm (similar design) but it's quite a bit bigger... the images on their site make it look like the receiver is just in front of the transmitter, but that's actually about their actual side-by-side size

*EDIT* And in other news, my Px Receiver didn't come with a battery cover. What the hell??? I've emailed RP and will see what they say... somehow I don't really see them sending me a 1 cent cover in the mail to Canada though :S

Chuck Lee

09-05-2009, 01:15 PM

Can you mount an umbrella to it? LOL [:D]

Seriously, you keep coming out with links to all these great products. I'm still wondering if you have any recomendations for mutiple flash mounts. (besides this one of-course)

Mark Elberson

11-10-2009, 08:28 PM

RadioPoppers UPDATE

From RadioPoppers to Mark on September 3 2009:

Mark,

We are expecting the RPcube to be available in 6-8 weeks. We do not have an exact cost, but being that is an accessory we "expect" it to be in the $30 range, but please do not quote me on this as we are waiting for more information from Research and Development.

Thank you for contacting the RadioPopper Information Center.

Regards

RadioPoppers UPDATE

From RadioPoppers to Mark on November10 2009:

Mark,

We greatly apologize for your frustration. We give out estimated release dates. At this time we are still looking at 4-6 weeks. As with many companies, there are unexpected delays that arise with the manufacturing and sourcing process. We will post on our website/blog as soon as we have a definite date.

We appreciate your patience and understanding! We are looking forward to getting the RPcube in our customers' hands as soon as we can.

Best Regards