I am looking to invest in some eTTL wireless triggers. I want a system with HSS capabalities and the ability to easily control different groups from on camera as starters. . I think I have narrowed it down to three products. 1) Phottix Odin system with its controller 2) Pocket Wizards( Mini TT1 and Flex T55) with AC-3 controller 3) Radio Poppers. I have Canon 580 EX and Canon 580 EXII. I am aware of the interference and need to possibly use sock with 580 EXII with the Pocket Wizards. Also have heard that the MiniTT1 uses a special expensive battery that does not last very long and its wiser in the long run to just use another TT5 on the camera to avoid expensive battery replacement. Is this true and would it make a difference to you if you chose that system? Please compare ease of use, user interface and quality of ettl metering exposure. Tell me what you would buy if money was of no concern and then also compare features to price for value. Any clear winner? Thanks in advance. Doc
I use the Radio poppers and they work with 98% satisfaction. Every once in a while you find a area with interference and they are sporadic. I also don't use the factory antennas, even though they say it could damage them, I have dozens of sessions using this setup and have encounterd no problems. I use a pair of 4" long antennas that have a little toggle so they can be oriented at different angles.
docgriz wrote:
...I have Canon 580 EX and Canon 580 EXII. I am aware of the interference and need to possibly use sock with 580 EXII with the Pocket Wizards.
If I were to get the Pocket Wizard ControlTL units, I would, in your shoes, use the 580EX II on camera or close to the camera, and the older 580EX at the longer distances. Also, instead of "the sock" I'd go for the hard shield, despite the higher cost; it has a neat mounting arrangement.
docgriz wrote:
...Please compare ease of use, user interface and quality of ettl metering exposure. Tell me what you would buy if money was of no concern and then also compare features to price for value. Any clear winner? Thanks in advance.
I had a chance to test the PWs, and they worked fine at the distances I would typically use them at (multi-light formal shots at weddings, etc.), but I'm looking forward to testing the Odin. The UI looks very user friendly to me.
Thanks for the replies guys and the suggestion to get the hard shield if I end up gong with PW.. Still looking for direct comparisons as to which is easier to use and which one is overall the best system managing Canon's eTTl .Can any of these systems do something that the others can't? I hear the PW are better built than the Odin. Not sure how important that is. I don't plan on throwing them across the room. More feedback please. Help me decide how to spend my money. Thanks in advance, Doc
