Re: AB800 and softbox
Yes you can see the difference between different manufacturers and different softboxes ( umbrellas etc)
A bit of background. I own a rental studio ( 3 studios) that supplies equipment as well. I know my own gear, and I have seen kits by most of the major manufactures come through my spaces.
In my inventory I have 15 heads, 4 packs, 8 ? softboxes, 25 reflectors...and other assorted stuff.
During set-up I can tell the difference between my Chimera, Red Wing or Elinchrome boxes ( the difference is in colour and texture), and I choose the box depending on the look I am after.
As for differences between less expensive and more expensive heads, there is a difference.
It is subtle.
I think it comes down to the tube and tube placement. The AB tube is small and sits flat against the metal backing ( which also has to act as a reflector). The more expensive units have a much larger tube, which coils out from the backing and are further into the reflector. I think this produces a faster, more even and dispersed flash, which can be better controlled by the modifiers.
There is also the glass covering over the tube which, according to the blurbs by the manufactures, controls the colour temp etc.,
My opinion is that the AB are great lights. The modifiers they sell are OK ( some are a PITA to put together) and that for 80% of the photographers who need lights, they will do the job.
Glenn
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