Quote Originally Posted by GrumpyDiver
I tried some AB (and opted for the Einsteins instead). With the type of work you do, I think you will find them a fantastic addition to your kit.
Agreed. The cost of entry has been keeping me away. But a used AB800 from someone I trust is a good way to put a toe in the water. I can probably sell it off with minimal loss once I've gotten my skills to the point that I can think about Einsteins. I already have a Vagabond Mini budgeted (hate dealing with cords on location), and I deliberately picked beastly 13ft light stands with crazy-wide bases to reduce the need for sandbags indoors. Outdoors, wind risks mean bags will be necessary. Planning to stitch some up to use SCUBA weights. No sense owning multiple types of lead blocks. Already have a MultiMax radio to hook up, just need the cable. 60in convertible umbrella will probably be my main modifier with Zack Arias's poor man's softbox trick (half-closed reflective umbrella).

Einsteins are definitely a long-term goal. Streamlined, built-in radio, wicked-fast t.1 time.... They're the frugal photographer's Broncolor. For now, I need a third light for some portrait work I have planned, and a $200 AB800 will add much-needed power. They're likely a stopgap measure/learning tool instead of a permanent addition to my kit. That said, if you ever want to offload some Einsteins or Colin gets tired of his 600EX-RTs, do give me a call.