What studio flash options can run from AC power instead of batteries?
Asked 9/19/2011
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2 answers
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I’m setting up a stationary studio lighting setup and would prefer flashes that can plug into wall power rather than relying on batteries. I need something reliable, with reasonably fast recycle times (around 4 seconds or less), and I’d rather avoid any DIY battery-eliminator mods. Manual-only operation is fine since I plan to set the lights and leave them there. What types of flashes or specific models should I look at?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
14y ago
2 Answers
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Have a look at Alien Bees. I have 4 of the B800s and they're fun to work with, can be triggered remote, and are very nicely priced. All manual, but as you say, it's not really an issue. Anyways, I very much like mine, so they come recommended from me at any rate. :)
As a side note, they're probably less than a regular hot shoe flash as well given the potential output and other handy features.
Originally by user472. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user472
14y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes. For a fixed studio setup, the simplest solution is usually to use studio strobes/monolights that are designed for AC power from the start. One community recommendation is Alien Bees, which are manual studio flashes intended for this kind of use and can be remotely triggered.
If you specifically want a speedlight-style flash, some models support AC adapters. A cited example is the Vivitar 285, which can run from AC with an SB-4 adapter.
So in practice, you have two good directions:
- Studio monolights for a permanent studio setup and more output/features suited to studio work.
- AC-capable shoe-mount flashes if you want a smaller flash form factor.
Given your needs—stationary use, manual control, reliability, and no mods—a dedicated AC-powered studio strobe is likely the better fit.
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AI14y ago
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