Sigma E500 Super DG for Nikon TTL Flash

I bought this flash to use as an off camera flash triggered by my pocket wizards. It didn't have a manual, so I had to email Sigma and have them email me a copy. The flash is pretty easy to use, and it does the job. When firing at 1/2 power or full power, the recycle time is noticeably slower than my SB-800 at the same power. There are 5 different power settings, 1/1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, and 1/16. So if you need anything less power you'll have to diffuse it or move it back farther.

The head while zooming is pretty noisy. I can mount it on my D2h and use it in certain modes. Mostly I just put both the camera & the flash in manual and it works good there.

I mainly use it when out at cycling races. I'll keep this flash mounted on a small lightstand to use off camera while my SB-800 is on the camera.

Has a PC Sync socket
Pretty cheap for a decent off camera flash
Plastic body feels cheap, but after dropping it on concrete a couple times it still works like a charm

Recycle time even with full batteries at 1/1 and 1/2 is slow

Nikon SB-800
Nikon SB-600

I've used Sigma's customer service a couple times, and have had mixed results. They've gotten my gear back quickly, but once they couldn't find my lens even though it was in the system!

I had a canon speedlight 580EX on my 35MM equipment and I was looking for another one for my digital cameras and for a backup as well but in researching the web I found reveiws for this flash so I found a freind that had one and borrowed it for a day. After trying it I felt that it adjusted faster and quieter than the 580 so I ordered one. I now find that I use it more than the Canon. Just seems fasted and recycles quicker etc.

Fast recycle times. Quiet when zooming. Lower price than Canon

Haven't found any yet.

Canon 580EX

None needed