A new flash for my Canon 7D

<p>Hi to all, I'm searching for a new flash.<br>

I'll using this in some macro and naturalistic shoots, in some street/reportage. I'm undecided between these:<br>

Metz 50 AF-1<br />Canon Speedlite 430 EXII<br />Yongnuo YN-565EX<br />Nissin Di866MKII<br>

I tested a my friend's YN-565EX and it seems a good product, but it hasn't the HSS function, that is useful in birds photos.<br>

About the prices:<br />the YN is cheaper than the other (ebay HK);<br />Nissin and Canon are at the same level (from Amazon.it);<br />Metz is half way between YN and the other (Amazon.it).<br>

About the function the Nissin seems is the best, it also could be used as master in wireless mode. I'm really tempted but, what about the general quality/compatibility and after sales? Furthermore, I read about some users that have had problems.<br>

Anyone could give me an advice, please?</p>

 

Just a thing,also with the Yongnuo could I have problem in the future but the low price is a plus.Canon and Metz are brands with a good after sales services.

<p>Stick with Canon, you will be better off in the long run.</p>

<p>I've used Metz extensively in the past with no complaints, and recently bought a Nissin Di866 (MK1) for Nikon. It's an excellent flash with good power and snappy recycling - does everything it says on the box.<br>

The Canon 430 EX2 will be considerably less powerful than either the Metz or Nissin. I have a 430 EZ and am not impressed with either its features, recycling time or build quality. Yes I realise mine is a much older model, but I doubt that the power output has been improved any.</p>

<p>@Rodeo<br>

I'm in doubt for after sale assistance in Nissin brand. The importer in Italy is Rinowa but the Nissin brand is not so "big" as could is Metz. I don't mind only the brand, sure, but it could be a plus in the future, also thinking about the maintenaince of the price.</p>

<p>For my Canon 5D Mark II I wouldn't use anything other than Canon 580 EX. I have several both version I and II. You have a 7D which if it is like the 5D Mark II it will allow you to control most features of the 580 EX II through the camera settings avoiding having to go into the Flash menu's to make changes. This can be huge if you are doing weddings where you don't have much time to mess with camera and flash settings. Also, the 580 series support external power sources. For anyone who does fashion shows or weddings you will know the external power is essential for fast recycle and guaranteed fireing each time.<br>

Bottom line get a Canon 580 EX II and external battery for your 7D. As an alternative look at Sigma DG Super.</p>