Summary My style is to shoot using limited depth of field. I was debating whether to get the B800 or the B400. I got the B800 bc I was afraid of being short of power. I found the B800 was giving more light than I needed at the lowest power setting. I just got the B400 yesterday, and was testing it out when it failed on me (firecracker-like bang). I am sending it back for another one, and I am not concerned about it. But I was happy with the flexibility that the B400 gave me while it was working. I was able to shoot closer at lower aperatures, and if I needed the depth of field, I could shoot at full power. A footnote -in a non-photographic comparison, you are getting a Honda Civic compared to a Lexus. The light works well, and I would highly recommend it.
Strengths Lightweight, fast recycling, adjustable power settings and economical price.
Weaknesses None.
Similar Products Used Calumet Travelite 750. Alienbees B800.
Customer Service Simply the best. Called in about the light I had just received having problems. Without having to plead my case, advised me they would be sending a new one, before receiving the defective unit. Try getting that service from B & H.
Reviewed by todd victor
, Intermediate
, from old hickory, tn
Price Paid $225.00
at White Lightning
Photography Experience 2-5 years
, People
Summary The best thing about this little light is the control it provides you. It is extremely flexible when it comes to flash power. It lets me simulate low light situations with either modeling light only or very low flash.
Strengths variable flash control
Weaknesses none really.
Customer Service another reason i purchase from White Lightning. The best customer service available.
Reviewed by nuspawn
, Intermediate
, from Philadelphia, Pa, USA
Price Paid $224.00
at direct from factory
Photography Experience 2-5 years
, People
Summary After gathering information from various dealers of Photo equipment in my area, I was able to establish criteria to base my purchase decision on. The problem was that the units from other manufacturers that met my criteria were well outside my price range.
The last dealer I visited recommended units developed by Paul Buff. AlienBees, was this guy for real?
I visited the website, reviewed the information there along with the reviews presented on this website. So, with excellent reviews and a price that was right, I decided it was a go.
I purchased two 400 units for my digital studio.
All I can say that the units exceeded my expectations. They are an excellent value for the dollars.
Reviewed by James Garvie
, Professional
, from Orlando, FL, USA
Price Paid $200.00
at direct
Photography Experience 21+ years
, Sports
Summary Excellent units which work well in digital photography and our specialty which is dog show photography. Fast recycling, balanced illumination, great stands, durable for location shooting.
Strengths Light weight; great, comprehensive kits; very fast and very stable. Tremendous value.
Weaknesses None.
Similar Products Used Novatron, SP, etc.
Customer Service So far, so good. Responsive if not all that informed. Willing to be as helpful as possible.
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