yinkamd Posted January 15, 2007 Share Posted January 15, 2007 I am a beginner, considering getting my first lighting kit for portraits. I know the Alien Bees are very popular. How does Calumet compare? Anyone have a preference, and why? Thanks Yinka Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
uriah Posted January 15, 2007 Share Posted January 15, 2007 I REALLY love the Alien Bee 1600 that I have. I know everyone recommends them. It's for a good reason too. Easy to use and doesn't eat a chunk out of the wallet. I personally have never used Calumet but heard really good things about them as well. Good luck on your decision! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
giggles Posted January 15, 2007 Share Posted January 15, 2007 I love my AB400 and plan to get another one soon! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
piper_lehman1 Posted January 15, 2007 Share Posted January 15, 2007 Alien Bees are easy to use - I love mine. I like that they don't have too many choices to confuse you, not to mention they are cool looking. I am about to purchase the new Ring Flash from AB. Anyone tried it yet? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lightbugged Posted January 15, 2007 Share Posted January 15, 2007 I have a pair of AB's (400 & 800) and I admit they're quite nice. However, my first choice were the Travelite's. I chose the AB's on price since the difference was markedly. At the time of purchase I didnt have the choice, but now it possible to rent them for a week before you make your investmet. I think Calumet has a rental department that you can contact about this. Good Luck. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
daniellane Posted January 15, 2007 Share Posted January 15, 2007 One other thing to consider. You can try the ABs for up to 60 days. If you don't like them, send them back. No problem. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jim_doty Posted January 15, 2007 Share Posted January 15, 2007 Yinka, I have Alien Bees units, model AB800 and AB400. They are very good flash units, well made, reasonably priced, and with a great reputation. No wonder they are popular. No experience with Calumet. Jim Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ecphora Posted January 16, 2007 Share Posted January 16, 2007 I am currently shooting with 2 AB800 units and love them. In the near future I will be adding 2 AB1600 units to my gear so I can experiment with more complex lighting. IMHO you can't go wrong with them. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
twmeyer Posted January 16, 2007 Share Posted January 16, 2007 McDonald's sells lots of hamburgers. Britney Spears sells a lot of records. Everybody Loves Raymond. Popularity ain't everything. But if you want pink monolights, the choice is clear... t Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
gene_e._mccluney Posted January 18, 2007 Share Posted January 18, 2007 The Calumet line of photoflash equipment is very rugged and professional. Designed for day in and day out use. Light modifiers (reflectors, scoops, etc.) interchange between models. I use the Calumet equipment..both Travelights and Studio strobes. McCluney Photo Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
geneschnarphotography Posted January 18, 2007 Share Posted January 18, 2007 Two Words: White Lightning. Ok, more than two words...Alien Bees vs Calumet-go with Calumet. Pro equipment. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
larry_hunt Posted January 20, 2007 Share Posted January 20, 2007 Both are good and I have a mix of both, the calumet units are made by Bowens in England and are very rugged and reliable with a wide selection of light modifiers. Alien Bees are made in Nashville, TN. Also very rugged, considering their parent company White Lightning is known for making nearly indestructible strobes, unfortunately they do not have quite a wide selection of light modifiers, but they are much lighter on the pocketbook. The one thing Alien Bees do have is a low-cost battery pack available, something to consider if you plan to work away from outlets. When I say low-cost I don't mean cheap, I've powered a 2400ws speedo pack on location when the rental generator stopped working. When it comes to repairs and parts, Alien Bees are fast and inexpensive unlike my Claumet/Bowens units; mishaps do happen. Things to consider when choosing. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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