Sunpak 120j auto??

[Jacqueline]

Hello,

Have you used the Sunpak 120j auto flash with the s2?
My last flash was the Vivitar 285 and it fried my s1. :mad: :mad:

[Steve Wynn]

I have used the 120j and couldn't get the quality of photos I wanted. It was much to harsh and I couldn't find a great diffuser to get that much needed low contrast light. I have since gone to the Nikon SB-80DX.

Before you work out the light quality, RUN out and get a "Wein" Safe Sync. The come in several models, I settled on the HSHS which fits into the hot shoe and your shoe mouted flash fits into it. There is also a PC terminal so that you can use a studio flash, etc.

Hope this helps out.

Steve

[Jacqueline]

Hello,


Thanks for the help. I did get the sunpak flash and the wein shoe
I am going to use a clear/white coffee lid for a diffuser. I will let you know how it goes.

I went to B&H in NY for the first time. That place is a trip. It is a must see for any photograher.:cool:

[Bill Dunston]

J,

Could you share some details on your Vivitar 285 and S1 problem? I've used the 285 on both the S1 and S2 with good results. However, you now have me worried......

Thanks

[Steve Wynn]

Bill, From what I have read, the older 283/285 may put enough voltage across the hot shoe that you can fry digital cameras. I know dozens of "digital" photographers that wouldn't dream of shooting without the Wein Safe Sync. If you can't measure the voltage, why not play it safe and protect your camera.

Steve

[Jacqueline]

Hello,

I was using the Vivitar 285 with my S1 without the Wein shoe and it was fine for a while. At one wedding I set the Vivitar on high with F16 and the S1 and my 1 gig both got fried. One week later my backup Vivitar went bad too. I suggest using the Wein shoe it is $50 but worth it. It cost $600 to get the camera fixed.

Good luck!

[Steve Wynn]

Did you say it fried your 1 gig? I know I've read where the camera get taken out but that's something different

Steve

[Bill Dunston]

Thanks for the good info. I agree that it's $50 well spent. Mine's on the way. I've also had good results using my Sunpak 544, but I'll make sure the Wein shoe is in place in the future.

[Jacqueline]

:( Yes, my 1 gig IBM chip was destroyed when the s1 got fried. The good news is that it was under warrenty and was replaced for free. I had to pay $30 for shipping and insurance. Hitachi did not give me a hard time. One week later a new 1 gig chip showed up at my door. Also, if you do not have equipment insurance get it. My insurance company reimbursed my cost for fixing the camera. I paid just my co-pay.

Jackie;) :)

[Jacqueline]

Buckeye,

Did you try a coffee can clear lid as a diffuser with the Sunpak 120j? The sales guy at B&H in New York told me that was the trick.

[Bruce Tucker]

Just curious asI too have a Sunpak 120J and would like to try the coffee lid diffuser solution. I tried Maxwell house and its too large. Quaker oats is to small. What brand of coffee can are you using so I can get one (and enjoy the coffee too).

[sandman]

I've been unable to get a coffee lid, so i thought i'd try out a teabag packet, pictures come out a bit dark ,any suggestions.:D .

Brian

[Steve Wynn]

I never even thought about a coffee can lid. I can't try it now, I sold it in 2002.