Photogenics or Alien Bees

[brewercm]

I was curious if anybody has used both and what they preferred. I've read the Photogenics color is more balanced than the Alien Bees but just wanted hands on opinion.

[Tom]

I've used both and chose the Elinchrom DLite 4 IT. Much better lights, and actually was cheaper than Alien Bees!

[brewercm]

I already knew your choice.

Reason I ask is I already have quite a but of AB stuff but came across a deal hard to pass up on a complete photogenics kit and had heard better things about their color consistency.

[Tom]

It would have to b a great deal to switch. AB probably has a better resale due to being better known.

[brewercm]

It's 2 1500r, 1 2500dr, three stands and reflectors, barndoors, 2 48" umbrellas, 2 36x48 photoflex softboxes for $650

[DigMe]

Originally Posted by Tom

I've used both and chose the Elinchrom DLite 4 IT. Much better lights, and actually was cheaper than Alien Bees!

Interesting. I have looked at the DLite 4 myself in the past. Why better? I eventually hope to pick up studio lights at some point but I was thinking I like the size of AB or perhaps Einstein combined with the Vagabond Mini for possible location work. How would the Elinchroms compare for that?

Do these have standard 3 prong plugs? I know the Quadras have to be plugged into Elinchrom's pack. I guess you could still run these off a Vagabond if they did.

brad

[StevenGWebb]

I have both Photogenic and White Lightning. Both parent companies are very well respected and have excellent reputations. I don't know that the temperature difference between the two has that much impact on finished work, especially when taken into account that the PCB (Other than the new Einsteins) shift temperature at different output levels. If you shoot RAW or use custom WB, hardly an issue. If I mix-and-match I use the brands in groups, like main and fill with one brand, background, hair and kicker with the other.

Another consideration in system integration is modifiers. Aside from umbrellas, modifiers are not interchangeable between the two. Doesn't bother me, might drive someone else crazy.

I don't buy equipment based solely upon it's resale value. AB's might be quicker to unload and may preserve a high percentage of the original price but on the price scale they are pretty low to start with. The secret to selling something is finding a willing buyer, there are willing buyers for both brands. Some things we buy to sell, some things we buy to use till they wear out.

Personally, I'd buy the Photogenic if I had the extra funds. Especially if I had a use for more lights, and who couldn't use more.

Steve

[brewercm]

Well, if I buy that kit I'll probably sell my ab stuff since I don't need that much equipment.

[Tom]

Originally Posted by DigMe

Interesting. I have looked at the DLite 4 myself in the past. Why better? I eventually hope to pick up studio lights at some point but I was thinking I like the size of AB or perhaps Einstein combined with the Vagabond Mini for possible location work. How would the Elinchroms compare for that?

Do these have standard 3 prong plugs? I know the Quadras have to be plugged into Elinchrom's pack. I guess you could still run these off a Vagabond if they did.

brad

DLite 4 is a traditional monoblock unit like the Alien Bee B800 (closest PCB competitor.) So it plugs into a wall and will work with the Vagabonds.

Their advantages over PCB or Photogenic lights are:
1. Color
2. Consistency
3. Digital, not a analog slider - can adjust accurately in 1/10th stop
4. Can adjust power from standard transmitter
5. Price
6. MUCH more superior modifiers
7. Have true pro-level equipment you can step up to without buying all new gear/modifiers.


The other style of unit is the pack and head style. While monoblocks plug into the wall for power, the pack and head style is where the head plugs into the pack, and the pack contains the power to drive the head. THe advantage of this is the system is smaller and lighter, they are easy to travel around with, and the controls are easier to reach for your assistant. Instead of being up on the light stand or boom, the controls can rest on the floor with the pack.

Both monoblocks and power pack style lights have their pluses and minuses, but there is a really special place for both. I have 3 monoblocks and three pack and heads.

[brewercm]

Yea, I have a set of 4 Norman LH2000 lights also that I just need to find a power pack for also. I just need to look around at some point and find a used working P2000D power pack for them.

[darktiger]

I love my Einsteins... but even when I was working with my AB I never really noticed a color shift... but I did pick myself up some elinchrom lights (quadra Ranger and Ringflash), so I will be playing with those when I can find the time...

[danchez]

had AB's, still have 2, but they don't see much use since I bought 2 Einsteins. Haven't noticed any color shift with the Einsteins and when I was just using AB's I can remember only one instance where there was a noticeable color shift. I was happy with my AB's and very happy with my Einsteins.

[brewercm]

I'd heard the einsteins were definitely better with constant color rendition than the lower end AB's.

[Lexie]

Trying to make up my mind if I want to switch from the 580ex II to the DLite 4, the Elinchrom Quadra Ranger, both or stay with the 580 II's. Sure get tired of buying batteries!! Will these work with the PW II's? I read a review and Skyport was mentioned. Would rather keep the PW's.

[StevenGWebb]

Originally Posted by brewercm

I'd heard the einsteins were definitely better with constant color rendition than the lower end AB's.

Purely out of curiosity, just how much is this shift in temperature? Is it noticeable or just measurable?