Canon vs Metz, or other flashes

Anyone have experience in "other than Canon" flashes?


I've read about some of Metz's features: USB connection to update firmware, no batteries necessary in flash to use external power pack, nice automatic option, etc.


Thanks

Is there anyone out there who has used the Metz 58 or 48 AF-1?

<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; color: black; font-size: 10pt;"]I do not have any experience with a Metz. When I purchased my forst digital in 2005, Canon XT, I purchased a Sigma. It was very inconsistent. I returned it and got a 580EX. I have been very happy with it.<o:p></o:p>


<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; color: black; font-size: 10pt;"]Check out the flash recommendations on http://www.shootsmarter.com/. <o:p></o:p>


<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; color: black; font-size: 10pt;"]Mark<o:p></o:p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"]<span style="line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"]<o:p></o:p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"]<span style="line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;"]<o:p></o:p>

I ordered the Metz Mecablitz 48 AF-1 yesterday.


The final determining factor was having the 7 degree tilt-down for macro at that price point (on top of the rest of the reviews, write-ups, and comparisons, etc.)


Also it's called the MECABLITZ!!!