Strobes and power pack - Recommendations?

[JohnT]

I'm looking to move from AC-powered monolights to a couple of strobes and a power pack (easier to set up and use on location). Budget is somewhat flexible. What do you recommend based on what you've used or currently use?

[The Loft Studios]

Speedotron 805 w/102 Fan Cooled Heads
Speedotron 1005 w/102 Fan Cooled Heads
Speedotron 1205cx w/102 Fan Cooled Heads

[JohnT]

Originally Posted by The Loft Studios

Speedotron 805 w/102 Fan Cooled Heads
Speedotron 1005 w/102 Fan Cooled Heads
Speedotron 1205cx w/102 Fan Cooled Heads

Thanks!

[Tom]

I have the Elinchrom Ranger Quadra and I cannot say enough good things about it. Super light, super powerful. The flash head actually weighs less and is smaller than a 580EX II or SB-900.

[JohnT]

Originally Posted by Tom

I have the Elinchrom Ranger Quadra and I cannot say enough good things about it. Super light, super powerful. The flash head actually weighs less and is smaller than a 580EX II or SB-900.

Thanks, Tom. I've seen these used in a Kelby video, and the photographer had nothing but good to say about them. They're at the top of my budget so still a good possibility.

[Tom]

I got 1 pack and 1 head for like 1300 from B&H because I was a member of NAPP. Special discount. I can fit a pack+head+cable+3 portrait prime lenses in my Think Tank Retrospective 20 with no problem and it not be ridiculously heavy (my not-so-buff female assistant carries it while I shoot.)

It is an investment, but the light it produces is incredible.

One light Quadra SOOC:


My art director on this shoot wanted her to fade into black, which is why there was no fill or rim. But I think it really represents what a single quadra can do quite well.

[JohnT]

Wow! That is beautiful.

[Bentley]

Einsteins with minis

[JohnT]

I went ahead and ordered the Quadra. Looking forward to working with it.