I've used both, what would you like to know?
I'm actually not seeing too much difference between the RX and BRX head these days, yes the BRX has some advantages such as a slightly better flash duration, slightly better construction but unless you can get them for the same price I don't see any reason to pay a premium for the BRX head.
It used to be the case that the D-lite was built like something out of a kinder egg but they've fixed most of that so unless they're using magic pixie dust on the BRX they should have comparable lifespans. Assuming I've not overlooked anything and you do intend to get more lights in the future I'd recommend you consider the D-lite 2 as in a small-medium environment a 400-500w might be overkill.
I've both.
Both perform well. What/how you shoot will dictate if either is more suitable.
D lite good for close up shoots over a few hours.
BRX500 better for all day shoots as the D-lites will overheat and cut out when pushed hard. Just swap it with a spare head and the other will be fine when it cools down. The BRX's can still overheat on long hard shoots.
500 is useful for lighting large groups in large rooms. but can be too much power in tight spaces.
BRX500 has a stronger locking mechanism which can take a greater range of elinchrom soft boxes/modifiers.
In your specified situation I'd go for the cheaper d-lites and spend the money on an extra head for when things go pear shaped.
Always have a backup plan!
I've both.
Both perform well. What/how you shoot will dictate if either is more suitable.
D lite good for close up shoots over a few hours.
BRX500 better for all day shoots as the D-lites will overheat and cut out when pushed hard. Just swap it with a spare head and the other will be fine when it cools down. The BRX's can still overheat on long hard shoots.
500 is useful for lighting large groups in large rooms. but can be too much power in tight spaces.
BRX500 has a stronger locking mechanism which can take a greater range of elinchrom soft boxes/modifiers.
In your specified situation I'd go for the cheaper d-lites and spend the money on an extra head for when things go pear shaped.
Always have a backup plan!
Hi Richard,
D-Lite 4IT. fan cooled. probably 2 or 3 years old now.
Softbox or in a lastolite backdrop.
It can happen under very heavy use and there are things you can do to minimise/prevent their occurrence.
Very heavy use = 4 days of 1500 shots per day.
No breaks
Room > 20C
Radiators on.
No airflow from open window.
Under such circumstances, I would have perhaps 1-2 cut outs during the 4 day session.
In order to prevent this issue from occurring you can...
Switch off the modelling light.
turn off radiators.
Open window to create airflow
Take a tea break, turn off the lights and place them by an open window, soon after the fans kick in.
So I do specify in my documentation to such clients, that I require the ability to open a window at least.
We have had 2 start smoking as we are using them at near full power and taking a 1000 stills per shoot, personally I dont think the 500s are up to the job week in week out
We have had 2 start smoking as we are using them at near full power and taking a 1000 stills per shoot, personally I dont think the 500s are up to the job week in week out