Metz 58 AF-1 vs Canon Speedlite 580EX

Started May 11, 2007 | Discussions
Jordan Wilberding Regular Member • Posts: 161
Metz 58 AF-1 vs Canon Speedlite 580EX

I have two Canon 580Ex Speedlites currently. I am looking to buy one more flash, so I will be able to do more lighting effects. I was wondering, should I go ahead and get the 580EX or save my money and go with the Metz 58 AF-1? Since the new model of the 580EX came out, the price difference is over 100 dollars now. Anyone that used both the 580EX and the 58 AF-1, would appreciate your comments.

Basically, I want to know if there are any negatives to using the Metz flash instead of the Canon flash.

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Thanks!
Jordan Wilberding
http://diginux.net

raypri56 New Member • Posts: 13
Re: Metz 58 AF-1 vs Canon Speedlite 580EX

I have 2 550ex and 1 580ex flashes. I have one of the 550ex on it's way back from Canon from repair. My 580ex will not function in "master" mode when using wireless.I have not sent it in yet, as it's our busy season and I need the flash every day right now.
So to sum it up, 2 out of the 3 Canon flashes I own have had mechanical issues.

I also own several Metz flashes. The 60CT4 that I bought in 1988 still works flawlessly. I did have a flashtube replaced 4 or 5 years ago. When I saw that Metz finally came out with a flash usable for ETTLll, I purchased one.

I think the 58 AF-1 is the best value for Canon today. I have found the ttl performance more consistent than the Canons. We shoot youth sports, and I have always dealt with extreme exposure variations with ETTL. If you are shooting against a darker background, like shaded trees or bushes, and the players have a burgundy or darker uniform, you can bet your life that ETTL II will blow out their faces. It is so predictable that we shoot all of our outdoor team & ind. photos in raw, so we have a chance to save the image when this occurs.

SInce using the Metz this spring, I cannot believe how consistant the exposures have become. I have also used the Metz with wireless flash with the Canons, and not only is it spot on, but I find the interface for the wireless much easier to understand and use than the Canon.

The 2nd flash head has allowed us to shoot team photos with bounce flash, when indoors with a lower ceiling, such as a cafeteria. The results are almost identical to using an Alien Bee 1600 with umbrella.

So, to sum up my impressions, the Mets 58 AF-1 is a no brainer over the Canon. The next time I am in the market, I will definitely get another one instead of a Canon.

OP Jordan Wilberding Regular Member • Posts: 161
Re: Metz 58 AF-1 vs Canon Speedlite 580EX

Thank you very much for your advice. Your experience definitely leads me to getting the Metz flash. I hope I have as much with it as you have!

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Thanks!
Jordan Wilberding
http://diginux.net

photoshutter Contributing Member • Posts: 748
Re: Metz 58 AF-1 vs Canon Speedlite 580EX

I'm working with couple Metz's 54mz4 with radio, nothing better!
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Still Life Photography
http://www.photoshutter.ca

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