tdlavigne Offline Upload & Sell: Off
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I've used both (we had a dozen AB's at the studio I managed, I've owned a couple, and we also had 2 Einsteins), in addition I've used Speedo and Profoto so I have a decent bit of experience to compare all the products.
You haven't really said what exactly it is that you do...so it's all a matter of opinion, but that being said: AB's are "meh" as far as lighting goes. The mount, the fragile flash tubes, and the quality of the parts are all things that have left me disappointed in the past. Then there's color temp variances and the output issues, slow recycle times etc. As you can guess I'm not really their biggest fan, but I'll readily admit that unless you're doing something that requires somewhat fast shooting, and consistency throughout several images they're more than enough for most and to be quite honest they are the best bang for your buck.
I've only tried the Einsteins on 2 separate occasions, but both times they just reminded me of digital AB's. I didn't shoot them on anything important so I can't speak on the recycle times, temps, output etc....just the quality seems to be about on par with the ABs. Performance wise from what I'm told by other photographers they're better with regards to consistency though. Adjustments were easier with the dial vs. the digital buttons though. That CyberCommander idea seemed cool, but was a pain to set up.
So again, without knowing what you do or your style of shooting I can't really suggest either one...other than to say if you don't care for consistency (or don't mind spending time in post to remedy it) and are on a budget then I'd just get the AB's.
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