Hi everyone,
I'm getting closer to studio lighting, so I'm planning to buy a kit to start experimenting.
I can't make up my mind between the two following Elinchrom kits.

D-lite4 kit includes:
2 D-Lite 4
2 Sync cable
2 Protective caps
1 Softbox 65 x 65 cm
1 Softbox 53 x 53 cm
1 Carrying bag for two D-Lite’s
1 Carrying bag for two stands
2 Stands 85 – 235 cm 30101

FX400 kit includes:
2 FX400
2 Power cables
1 Sync cable 5 m
1 Reflector 16 cm
2 Protective Hoods
1 Portalite 60 x 60 cm
1 Translucent deflector
1 Softbag / 2 heads
1 Umbrella silver 83 cm
1 Umbrella translucent 83 cm
2 Stand 88 x 235 cm
1 Carrying bag for stands

The main differences between the 2 heads are: D-lite has a plastic body and user replaceable flash bulb, FX has a sturdier construction but non user replaceable bulb.
The difference in price here in Europe is about 125$ (100 euro).
Maybe the fx400 kit has better accessories (the Dlite one has no reflector, and 2 small softboxes), but I don't know if the non user replaceable flash bulb is a handicap.

What would you recommend?

get the cheaper d-lites for starter. experiment with those light-shapers and put the 100$ towards the really good ones from elinchrom when you know which ones you want.

the user-replaceble bulb are a fact to consider. i´d also recommend to buy a 21cm normal-reflector with a grid (they have a set with the 21cm reflector and two grids). alongside the d-light kit. it´s quite affordable and gets you the ability to play with direct light.

Thanks Dergimen for your reply. I considered the D-lite kit at first, but for 100 euro I'd get a more professional kit, at least for the construction material. I mean, I wouldn't end up selling the dlites in some months in exchange of the FXs. I'd like to take the best compromise, but I still haven't figured which it is.

Again, with the the price difference I could get the reflector with 2 grids and a snoot with grid.

I'm still in two minds about it.

The bulbs shouldn't need to be replaced for years unless you're banging on them 24/7. Get whatever will be the best investment as far as resale value for when you'll inevitably want RX's.

+1 to bacilonur. And with that in mind I'd start with the D-Lites and use them for a while. Next, get some Elinchrom mods and learn them well (I love the deep Octa). And for a last step, sell the D-lites and get the RX's.

Peace,

Todd

Ok, I'm more towards the FX side now.
I'll explain why.
If I get the dlites I would buy the 2 umbrella set in the near future, as long as a reflector. The total cost of these 2 items, included in the style fx kit, is 120 euro which wipes out the convenience of the dlite kit.
At this prices (I have to say I've found a great offer, in Italy the difference between the 2 kits is about 340 euro) I think the fx kit is the way to go.

I would go with the FX kit.