Flash Thoughts for a 20D

JimM

I wanted to get some opinions...

What are your thoughts on using an older Vivitar 3700 flash with two bottom pins on my 20D? I still haven't picked up a Canon flash yet and I am really need a flash.

To let you know, before I sold my Nikon equipment, I used my Nikon SB24 on my 20D with great results... when I told the guy at the local camera shop, he said he had heard of people blowing circuit boards using the wrong flash and he would not recommend it. So I traded in my Nikon flash. I am still without a flash and have an old Vivitar 3700 handy. It is not a bad flash actually. Should I put it on my new 20D? Would you? Do you know of anyone shooting flashes not designed for a newer Canon digital SLR on them? Have you heard any horror stories?

Thanks. I know for TTL that I want to pick up the Canon flash.

3rdPlanetPhotography

I wouldn't do it my friend. I also have a 20d and still have my great ole trusty Sunpak 544 side-mount Cadillac that uses PC plug. I've tried it and it works but the best word I can get out of anyone is don't do it.

The older flash units could fry the electronics.....

I was in the same boat and didn't have the $$$ to spring for the Canon flash so I went with the Sigma 500 DG. So far.. I'm extremely happy with it and it works perfectly with the 20d. I think I got mine from 47th street for $179. It works so well that I have no intention to purchase the Canon series flash.

Hope that helps!
kc7dji

dragon300zx

Don't use the old flash. Fr the 20d yru best bet is a 580ex or the Sigma 500 Super DG. It's sigmas top of the line and comparible to the 580. It's fairly inexpensive and it's a great flash, I am prolly gonna buy a couple more for a light portable lighting kit. If you want we can get together and you can try mine before you buy.

spockling

Would a metz CT-1 work on the 20D without any issues? I may go that route if it'll work.

Aaron Wilson

were to buy?
Is B&H the best places to buy these flashes? In in the Bay Area in CA.

dragon300zx

Aaron,

B&H is where I got mine. You really need to shop around though. Check your local stores against b&h or adorama and figure out the total cost after taxes local versus total cost after shipping if ordered online.

I buy from both adorama and b&h and never have a problem.

JimM

Okay Dragon, I have to ask... I have been pondering this since I joined dgrin... what is a Cherry Ripe?

dragon300zx

JimM wrote:

Okay Dragon, I have to ask... I have been pondering this since I joined dgrin... what is a Cherry Ripe?

A Cherry Ripe is a devine experience for the taste buds that is given to us by Australia. Australia does food two ways A) really really horrible like vegemite or so good it gets a cult following like the cherry ripe. The only place I know of to get them in america is in california so you have to order them by mail. If you decide to check out my flash before you order one of your own i can let you experience the brilliant taste sensation that has been the talk of dgrin since may.

Oh yeah

There are now 37 posts dealing with the cherry ripe and 69 posts dealing with cherry ripes. Positive proof that they are so good no one can have just one.

3rdPlanetPhotography

I got my Sigma 500 DG at 47th Street Photo. Comparable to B&H. Excellent flash.

kc7dji

dragon300zx wrote:

Aaron,

B&H is where I got mine. You really need to shop around though. Check your local stores against b&h or adorama and figure out the total cost after taxes local versus total cost after shipping if ordered online.

I buy from both adorama and b&h and never have a problem.

JimM

Okay, everyone can stop worrying now, I picked up a 550EX today... I am no longer tempted to use the old vivitar. :