Read real customer reviews of the Elinchrom Ranger Quadra RX Flash Kit here.
Nikon Speedlights are an excellent option when traveling or photographing a wedding or other event; however, they also generate lower power, lack a modeling light and are only compatible with a limited number of light modifiers.
Kits, like the Bowens’, have plenty of power, but, of course, they are cumbersome with their added battery packs. Many pros also discover, after they have invested in a Bowens-size kit, that the modeling light can’t be used, since it would require too much power.
The modeling light issue is important to many photographers because they need to see their subject when shooting in low light.
2. In steps the Elinchrom Ranger Quadra system between the two extremes. The Ranger Quadra system is more compact and weighs less than the standard Elinchrom Ranger system (much like a Speedlight); however, Elinchrom has a larger selection of compatible light modifiers and the Quadra can deliver more power and overall flash performance.
3. The Ranger Quadra system does include a modeling light and, because it uses LED bulbs, the battery pack can power it without draining too much of the juice.
4. There are two Ranger Quadra kits, the Pro Set and Standard Set. Each of these can be selected with either A or S heads. The Pro S Set includes two Quadra S heads, two reflectors, EL-Skyport transmitter, battery, flash head cable, two caps and case.
5. Many photographers prefer the S heads because the flash interval at full power is 1/1,300, which is faster than Speedlights. Although one pack will power both heads, the battery delivers the power asymmetrically and with no separate control of the heads. One head receives twice the power as the other head. If you need equal power for both heads, then you’re forced to buy a second pack. The upside of the asymmetrical power output is that you can give one head full power with the A outlet and the second head less power, and a shorter flash interval, with the B outlet.
6. The Skyport receiver is also a beneficial tool for many photographers, since it is smaller than Pocket Wizards. In addition, the kit has a sync socket (jack cable type) that also works with Pocket Wizards or any other type of radio trigger; and optical slave triggering is supported by a built-in photocell.
7. Elinchrom has certainly packed the Ranger Quadra with plenty of settings and options. They are so extensive, however, that you will have to spend some time with the manual and menu to learn how to access and use them all.
8. To benefit from Elinchrom’s many choices of modifiers, you’ll need to purchase the RQ-EL adapter. It’s used in place of the standard reflector and bracket and is a more stable support for the head as well as any Elinchrom softbox, beauty dish or octabox as much as 39 inches (1m).
The RQ-EL adapter may be handy and worth the investment, but when attached to the head, the combination doesn’t fit in the case. Removing the adapter is not a big problem, but it would be nice if it could remain attached during transportation.
9. Some professionals have been concerned about the plastic umbrella mount because it works as a friction mount only, which may make it problematical on a windy day.
10. Photographers have also discovered the 400-watt S heads deliver excellent power capacity. They have the flexibility to adjust the power by 1/10th of a stop as much as a full stop per push. When you need to select a large aperture, you can use the B power socket for lower power.
11. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the Elinchrom Ranger Quadra system is the perfect alternative for the many professionals that need more power than Speedlights offer, but with the same portability. This is particularly true for photographers who travel often and find themselves far from an AC outlet.
12. The Ranger Quadra Head S Standard Set is $1,424.99 and the Pro Set is $2,089.95 from B&H Photo Video.
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