Vivitar 283 flash on Mamiya RB67

[artflei]

I want to use the Vivitar 283 flash with my Mamiya RB67 Pro S. I have a flash

cord to connect the flash to the camera, but I don't know if I have to set the

switch on the lens to "X" or "M". What's the difference between these two

settings? Thanks for your help!

[golden]

set to X, M is bulbs

[skygzr]

Set it to "X" and then glue it down! The "M" setting incorporates a small time delay to give the bulb time to heat up and fire (or the flash powder to burn!). If you shoot strobes on the "M" setting the flash will be long gone before the shutter opens.

[davemoss]

you better shoot faster film, even though the 283 could be a blow torch. are you using a flash meter?

[artflei]

<p>Thanks for your advice. I made some test shots and the flash seems to work fine on the "X" setting.</p>

 

<p>Dave, why would it be better to shoot faster film? I have an inexpensive light meter that can also be used as a flash meter, but I haven't used it for this purpose so far. I am using the Vivitar on auto settings.</p>

[PaulWhiting]

A related question: Is it safe to use a 283 on later model cameras? I've heard its high firing voltage can damage contacts in newer cameras. But how do you tell at what year camera shutters became less robust? I feel ok using it on my Nikon FM2... not so sure about my more current Canon Pro-1, or Fuji GA645, for example.

[mike_hallock]

You don't need to shoot with faster film, because you set the film speed on the flash unit and it automatically figures everything for you.

 

It is a fantastic flash unit and I have been looking to buy a couple more if anyone has them for sale (and they work properly.)