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Nikon SB-700 | Excellent Flash - Just Missing Power Suggestions And PC Plug
Save on Nikon SB-700. Free Shipping, Order Now!
Just received the Nikon SB-700 today from Amazon following a 3 month wait - I have always been not disappointed. I have been a Nikon user since the 70's, and have owned every Y and D pro bodies, and connected flash units. I have seen all the reviews from the internet criticizing Nikon for omitting the PC input and power input - they know whether they included these features it would have killed sales of the SB900. Like others, unless I have to have maximum power from my flash (which is normally rare); I can get by when using the SB600 and most recently, the SB400 for the majority of my (fill) flash work. I mainly use the flash for fill and provide it on the camera 100% of that time period. For "walking around" the SB400 works great problems . size and weight. When I should use bounce flash, I typically use the SB600. I still own the SB800 along with SB900 but find myself rarely using them.
The Nikon SB-700 fills the gap - the most beneficial features of the flash are the smaller size and weight (vs. the SB900); simpler to use controls (I hated the SB600/800 controls); fifth the hard plastic snap-on color a static correction filters. Nikon needs to make these (hard) filters for any SB900 - trying to use their gels and holder in the field is crazy - you might either lose or damage the gels to start with you are working under pressure. Also the bounce dome is smaller than the large unit that will comes w/ the SB900.
The Nikon SB-700 is the first Nikon flash I've used that seems to obtain the exposure right on. Normally I really need to set the flash exposure to -0. 7 so you can get what I consider a normal subjection. I do not have to repeat this on the SB700. I also like that experts claim Nikon has gone to switches (vs. menu) to switch from Auto to be able to Manual exposure - I care less concerning the switch for the flash coverage as that isn't a setting I change - but others who do change it will like the fact that it's easy to switch on this fly.
Back to the power input and PC sync input - triggered fans of the Stobist are very unhappy with regards to the inability to use their PC cords for their Pocket Wizards - most folks loathe using the PC - Hot boot cords; one more thing to go wrong in the electrical chain. Personally - I miss the energy input for the Nikon battery packs - and although I am sure Quantum will come out w/ a battery adapter to try w/ their packs, I haven't use my Quantum packs in years since I've converted to using the Nikon external packs that make use of AA's.
That said - think the Nikon SB-700 may become the de facto standard flash; and therefore the SB800 will continue to sell about eBay and Craig's list for more they'll likely sold new (I'm keeping mine) in the Strobist fans.
As to the overheating issue; haven't had the unit long good enough to see if it reacts very much like the SB900 - another review said that unit slows down on recycle effort before shutting down - I've had my 900 banned; so I have to carry a backup in case.
As of today (12/13/10) looks for instance Amazon isn't even taking orders to your unit; if you are in a hurry suggest checking your regional camera store - mine told me they were getting some in periodically -
The main thing: if you are in the market for that Nikon flash - buy this a particular!
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