Customer Reviews

Elinchrom EL 10287 Ranger RX Speed AS Set with A Head, Reflector, Varistar 2 Batteries and Ranger Case

5 star:		(1)
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1 star:		(0)

 

 

I bought this package from my local camera store back in November and I've been very happy with it. I also own several Profoto pack and head systems and a few Profoto monolights as well the the portable battery powered Profoto 600b system. The Elinchrom is much heavier and quite a bit bigger than the Profoto but it is almost twice as powerful and has a really nice, electronic interface. What I like the most about this system is that I can turn down the power so that I'm just getting the barest flash. Coupled with a huge and efficient battery I'm able to shoot for days and days between recharges. So far all systems are go.

Two things to be aware of: 1. Elinchrom has their own proprietary sync connector so you'll either need to get their cords or buy adapters to use a standard 1/4 inch banana plug connector. Doesn't sound like a big deal until you go on location without one. Most people will use the system with a radio trigger but I like also having the back up. The one time I forgot the cable adapter I was able to use the built in optical trigger to fire the flash. 2. The power distribution is asymmetrical. One head gets 66% and the other gets 33% of the power distribution. If you have two heads plugged in you cannot individually power one up and leave the other one alone. Works great for most of the portrait situations in which I use it but it would be nice to do asymetrical implementation as well.

I thought that the varistar shoot thru umbrella would be worthless but I've found myself using it a lot. Now that we're shooting digital it's hard to imagine a situation where I would need the full power through one head but if I find one I'll be right on top of it.

This is an impressive system. If I'd tried this first.........

It's great to arrive at a location and be able to shoot anywhere you want without concern for running extension cords. Finally, the flash duration of the standard head is faster than any of my Profoto Acute heads or monolights. In some situations it makes the light seem a bit crisper. A good thing.

Two thumbs up for this product.