Sunpak and Vivitar flashes?

Question

I’m a new photographer who just got a Pentax K110D. Of course I’m going through the beginning “tests & trials” using floodlights and house lamps to photograph subjects indoor to save money. Most pictures are dark so I’ve learned my lesson, lol. I was advised to purchase a Sunpak 433d, or Vivitar 285 or 283 for great power and less cost. I’m looking at ebay and wonder if I’m really getting a good deal for purchasing these used flashes for around $50 shipping. I know I will have to get a trigger system for them, but do you think I’m making a smart move?

Answer 1

I do not have experience with the K110D, or the Sunpak 433d.  I do have extensive experience with both the 283 & 285 however.  Assuming you've checked for hot-shoe compatibility, I highly recommend the 285.  Here's why:

1) Very good deal -- good power for the price.  Not a bunch of unnecessary bells & whistles to drive up the price.

2) A great back-up.  Even if your camera is NOT hot-shoe compatible, you can use the flash off-camera like a strobe -- in both automatic mode & manual mode (referring to flash modes).  I still have my 283 & 285 as backups for my Canon digitals.

3) A classic -- which means you can usually find accessories, parts, & help on the flash in most parts of the country (& possibly world).

4)  You will most likely not outgrow this flash

Many people underestimate the 285 because it's very cheap for a flash.  Truth is, I can conduct many professional jobs with this flash.  I simply don't for the sake of "professional appearances."  In the world of commercial photography, clients expect to see equipment that they believe are "professional equipment."

As far as purchasing the flash used, here are some points to consider:

1) The 285 hits its 28mm coverage via a diffuser.  Make sure that the diffuser is included in the purchase.  If not, you will have to buy the diffuser to cover wider than 35mm.

2) In the automatic mode, the flash uses a removable sensor that is attached to the front of the flash.  Be sure that this sensor is included with the flash.  If not, you are stuck to using this like a studio strobe -- meaning you calculate f-stops & distances.

3) Make sure that the flash includes the battery holder.  Some people buy rechargeable packs for flash -- &/or adapters for using 3rd party battery packs.  If it's missing the batter holder, you will need to purchase this to use AA batteries.  

4) Make sure that the Vivitar flash cable is included.  You will need this to trigger the flash any other way besides directly on the hot-shoe.  Their cable is proprietary, which means you will not be able to use PC cables directly without it.

If any of these items are missing, you might want to consider purchasing it new.  As you would then gain the accessory, as well as the manufacturer's warranty.  Here's a link to where I usually purchase from:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/61...

Other places like Adorama, Camera World, & Calumet are also reputable.  

Besides the flash, you might want to invest in a long PC cable, which would allow you more creative freedom for where you want to place the flash.  If your budget allows, you may also want to consider a light stand, or something else that can keep your light propped & positioned how you would like.  Good luck!

Answer 2

Before you spend any money, make sure your camera can handle the trigger voltage used by the flash ... you don't want to fry your cameras electronics.

http://www.botzilla.com/photo/strobeVolt...

Answer 3

My advice is get a good flash, I have a sunpack flash and I can not stand it. I only use it when I have NO CHOICE. I prefer natural light anyways. I just haven't had the best experience with them.  

Answer 4

Buy the Vivitar 285 new. It was redesigned in 2007 to have a sync voltage of 6V so its safe for your K110D. Check here:

http://www.bhphotovideo.com

http://www.adorama.com

http://www.keh.com

http://www.beachcamera.com

http://www.uniquephoto.com

You can read the review of the flash at http://www.popphoto.com. It was in the March 2007 issue.