Novoflex makes similar products, e.g. [url="http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/240736-REG/Novoflex_UNIMARM_Flash_Bracket_with_Two.html]THIS ONE[/url].


Personally, for a single flash (430EX II), I have used aManfrotto 233B Flash Bracket with a GiottosMH1004 mini ball headand an OC-E3 - the extendible bracket is long enough and adjustable enough to position the flash head right at the end of the lens (or lens hood). The bracket + ballhead runs less than $80. This one was shot with that setup (handheld):



[url="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dr_brain/4875341569/in/set-72157624616379818/lightbox/][/url]
EOS 7D, EF 100mm f/2.8<span style="color: #ff0000;"]L Macro IS USM, 1/60 s, f/8, ISO 400, 430EX II on Manfrotto 233B flash bracket via OC-E3


The setup is a bit bulky and unwieldy, but I guess I'd describe the MT-24EX like that, too. The other advantage to an MT-24EX (or MR-14EX) is that they can be wireless masters, so you can trigger an off-camera strobe to light the background if you want. For me, using the MT-24EX with the 100 L macro was a 'nice to have' but with the MP-E 65mm, extra light is pretty much a requirement, even for static subjects.