I'm interested in building up a home studio and buying used Elinchrom Style 400BX monolights. Is there a way to judge the actual usage of the monolight - or more specifically the life left in the flash tube? When the cost of a flash tube is $100 or approx. 1/4 the price of a new strobe, the cost of buying used could be quite high. I see many ads which state low usage but is there a way to confirm? Is it a smart move to look used or a bad idea? Thanks for your response.
When it comes to studio lights I'd be more concerned about the capacitors. Flash tubes have a long life and either work or not, but capacitors need to be conditioned (exercised) or they atrophy with very negative consequences. Some EE here can probably explain better. I think in a late model strobe the more use the better. The BX400's aren't that old. More than likely somebody upgrading to RX system, which by the way do have an internal flash counter that can be accessed by USB.
I have bought and sold a few used strobes with no problems, but there is definite risk associated that should be taken into account. I remember the folks at Novatron 15 yrs (20?) ago were so concerned about performance on their product that I purchased used, they had me send it back to them to be checked for capacitor condition. They were the PB of packs in their day. Great customer service. With companies today you're pretty much on your own with used.
I'd look at whether it was used in studio or field. Field is OUT. If studio, was it commercial or home? If home, how long and how often were they used? If commercial, how long and why.
Thanks both for the reply. I will keep looking for a couple of used Elinchrom strobes but now I'll have a better idea of what to look for and ask about.
And I did not know the RX system had an internal counter. Thanks!
I have 2 like new BX-400's that I will sell you. I have been thinking of getting a Ranger and I'll have to sell these to help fund it. They are like new with about 6 or 700 pops, with all the original packaging. They have worked flawlessly everytime. If you are interested, send me an e-mail please. Gregg
