Photogenic vs. White Lightning

[Wes]

Next month I'll be pulling the trigger on a second monolight to go with the Norman ML400R that I currently have. I would love to get another Norman but just cannot afford it.

So.... I've been looking at a few other brands that I've seen favorably mentioned around here.

White Lightning X800

or

Photogenic StudioMax III AKC320

Based upon the specs that I've read on-line they both seem to be pretty rugged but the Photogenic is about $90 less. Intended use = small home studio, and on-location event portraits. Not planning on lighting up more than 2 or 3 people at a time.

For those of you that have used them have you had any problems triggering them from a master light?

Thanks.

(BTW - not really interested in looking at Alien Bees at the moment)

[The Loft Studios]

Look at a "used" Norman ML400 or even a Photogenic 1250DR.....
The Photogenic 1250DR has the same Digital features as your Norman, you can get them on eBay from $350 - $400. And the best part is it uses the "exact" same accessories and speedring. I've purchased 8 of them from eBay over the last 2 years with "No Problem".....

EDIT: On a side note, if you're really interested in the Photogenic 320, you can sell your Norman ML400 (Market Value is around $400 on eBay) as use those funds to "purchase" 2 used Photogenic 320's (Market Value under $200 on eBay). Just a suggestion.....

[The Philos]

I really like my AKC320 - I've not used it for anything serious yet, but I will tomorrow and Sunday. I've not used the optical slave because I have microsyncs and the photogenic trigger for a backup.

[Wes]

Hmmmm.... hadn't thought about getting a used Norman. I'll have to check eBay. Thanks.

[LANCE B.]

FWIW, I was told by the guys at a sponsor's store to look outside the StudioMax line as they are frequently in for repair. However, the other Photogenic series are worth consideration. I normally would not give advice on a product I have not used but I figure these guys have no reason to suggest I avoid a product they sell. I really appreciated their honest opinion. Just thougt this may encourage you to ask around about StudioMax reliability.

[The Philos]

I just got an older Powerlight 600 on eBay for $200 shipped - I think it'll be quite good as a main and I can then use the StudioMax as a hair or fill light.