Canon Speedlite 600EX-RT Not bad!

[Rocco]

Speedlite 600EX-RT Key Features

• New wireless multiple flash system using radio wave communication
• Zoom flash head covers wide range of 20-200mm; Max. Guide No. 197 ft./60m at ISO 100
• Redesigned contact construction, improved flash head durability, and exceptional dust and weather resistance
• 18 Custom and 3 Personal Functions for creative flexibility

Speedlite Transmitter ST-E3-RT Key Features

• Newly designed wireless system uses 2-way radio wave communication for enhanced communication among master and slave units
• Achieves a transmission distance of up to 98.4 ft. / 30m, all at a 360 degree angle
• Up to 5 groups, or 15 individual flashes can be controlled via 1 transmitter
• Supports E-TTL II flash, manual flash, stroboscopic and external flash metering

Maybe this explains why Pocket Wizards new trigger is so cheap.

[Dr Croubie]

I guessed this ages ago, now that they're including the old optical trigger in every new body (that has an inbuilt-flash at least), there's no need for the ST-E2 anymore, so they needed to come up with a new gadget that we have to buy instead. Radio-trigger it is.

*waits for 580EXs to get cheaper*

[Rocco]

That was my thought as well.

[jrw]

Really like the idea of 5 flash groups. Once I add backdrop and hairlight things get crowded on three groups.

[iND]

I understand that these can NOT be mixed with 580EXIIs they can not mix RT and IR
Is that your understanding.
So I will need to get all new flashes?

[andnowimbroke]

I was pretty sure of retrofit parts coming from Canon for the older flash units to play nice with the newer technology.

[Rocco]

I was pretty sure of retrofit parts coming from Canon for the older flash units to play nice with the newer technology.

I have no doubt of that, but I THINK the question was whether the radio trigger and preflash triggering could be used simultaneously .. and I have no idea.

[andnowimbroke]

Ahhh. My bad For $600 it better turn my TV on too.

[jrw]

I would think that some enterprising third party manufacturer (PW??) will come out with some new toys for us to play with that will let us keep our existing flash units. I hope it is soon.

[Mark Elberson]

Maybe this explains why Pocket Wizards new trigger is so cheap.

The PocketWizard Plus III is a "dumb" trigger. Even though it's cheaper than its predecessor it still makes sense that it can be sold for so "cheap".

there's no need for the ST-E2 anymore

Auto focus assist beam. Other than that, I agree.

I understand that these can NOT be mixed with 580EXIIs they can not mix RT and IR
Is that your understanding.
So I will need to get all new flashes?

Compatibility With 580EX II and Earlier Speedlites — Canon has done a good job of maintaining backwards compatibility with the existing line of Speedlites. The new 600EX-RT system works in radio mode or optical mode — but not both at the same time. This means that you can use the 600EX-RT with earlier generations of EX Speedlites by using optical transmission for wireless mode. Yes, it’s fair to say that, in optical mode, the 600EX-RT a better looking 580EX II.

Check out this article for a comprehensive overview on the 600EX-RT

Ahhh. My bad For $600 it better turn my TV on too.

I don't get this...and I have a read a LOT of people complaining about the price point. The 580EXII is currently selling for $470 and that's with a $30 rebate. Without the RF transmission I'd say that the 600EX is a worth while upgrade. Nikon's flagship flash unit goes for $550 and does not have an RF transmitter.

I would think that some enterprising third party manufacturer (PW??) will come out with some new toys for us to play with that will let us keep our existing flash units. I hope it is soon.

They already have, they Mini/Flex system. I'll continue using it with my lowly 430EX IIs :-)