550ex or 580ex

[Phideaux]

I think I'm in the market for a hotshoe flash to have in my bag, especially as the ones I have were/are used on the film EOS 1n camera and everyone advises that there may be a voltage problem with use on my newish 5D.

I have Elinchrom units for studio work and any compact flash would be tucked away in my field-bag to allow use of my current walkabout lenses in poor light. I guess that, to be honest, it would probably become used for 'party snaps'.

I think I'm OK with £150 for a mint 550ex and would consider £220 for a used 580EX if I was convinced that the 550ex couldn't compare for the use I am likely to make of it.

Please, any advice?

[dod]

If it's just snaps what about a new 430EX?

[scraggs]

I agree if its just snaps look at the 430EX I bought the 580EXII and to be honest it does stuff I dont think I will ever use.

[oldgit]

:agree:

'*** it depends on the distance and space you are trying to fill (clearly).
That is probably the greatest consideration.

Also the 430EX can't be a master, only a slave device.