2012-08-11T21:00:00
Rated 4 out of 5
An economical way to start
The good news is that everything worked out of the box. The quality is what one should expect for the price. Hey, we're not talking Elincrom gear here. It works, but there are only two power settings: one-half power and full power, and that is in the product description. As others noted, the modeling lights are very hot. I leave them out most of the time.
There is no auto-anything, nor would I expect it for the price. They go off with either a sync cord or flash sensor. That means you have to know how to run your camera on manual settings. The limited directions say they are rated for 8,000 flashes, presumably that's at full power.
The good news is they will light a largish size family room and that's what I wanted. That and to experiment with studio gear without taking out a 2nd mortgage.
I have not tried them outside but without using a sync cord I would not expect much from these (or any others) since they have to "see" the flash from your camera.
FOR THE PRICE, I think it is a good value.
Fred
2010-08-23T21:00:00
Rated 4 out of 5
Impressed
Just getting started and think this kit is a great way to get going. I have no complaints.
DAVID H.
2009-11-27T19:00:00
Rated 4 out of 5
Adorama Budget Studio Monolight kit
I don't do much studio work but wanted to try it. At the same time I didn't want to drop big bucks just to try it. I got the upgraded kit with the 160 w lights not the 100. I really wasn't expecting much but I was pleased when I got it. The 160s are built better than I expected, and the controls provided smooth light adjustment. They do run hot, especially with the color filters or snoot on them but there is also individual switching for the lights so they do not have to stay on while making other set up adjustments. The Barndoor is a little flimsy but it works. The Umbrellas have removeable silver lined Black backs so they can also be used as defusers but they are better reflectors. The stands are okay for indoor but probably not outdoors without weighs to hold them in place. I was pleased with the products. Everything worked out of the box, everything ordered was in the boxes. I was up and running (experimenting) with a multi light set within the hour. These are not highend equipment. Professionals would not want them for main (work horse) lights but they would serve well for the Enthusiast, small studio or the pro as fills, backlight, hair, accents, a dozen uses at a low cost.
Wayne
2008-04-17T21:00:00
Rated 3 out of 5
Like the system but lacking in info
I really like the set of three lamps. The snoot gets hot to the touch if the modeling lamp is left on. I can't figure out how to use the gels without burning a hole in them. The instructions are minimal and say nothing about the gels... nor can you replace them. Other than those two items I've been having fun shooting with this studio set. Good value for the money. Nice case, stands, umbrellas and barn doors comes with it. I recommend buying extra bulbs. One of the modeling lamps did not work upon arrival. Luckily I had purchased a couple of extras with the set.
Connie
