External Flash: SB-400 or SB-600?

[annnewjerz]

I'm making my Christmas list for DH and would like to get an external flash for my D60. I have been looking at the SB-400 and the SB-600 and just wanted some input and opinions as to which one people have, how they like it (or don't) and recommendations for which one to get. I don't need some extremely powerful flash, but would like something stronger than the built-in flash to use for pictures around the house where the lighting isn't great, photos at office events that are in larger rooms with groups of people, etc.

Also - I was watching a bunch of videos on Gary Fong's website the other day after reading a recent thread on the subject and really like the look of the subject with the flash diffused though the lightsphere with the inverted dome rather than just using the flash straight at the subject or bouncing off the ceiling, any opinions on whether the cloud or clear lightsphere is preferred?

I'm leaning toward the SB-600 because even though I don't necessarily need a larger flash right now, one day I probably will and it does fit the Gary Fong diffuser whereas my understanding is the SB-400 does not.

Thanks!
Ann

 

[MICKEY88]

my experience has been to always go with the top of the line flash for several reasons.

1. I'd rather have more flash than I need, than be in a situation where I don't have enough flash and then wish I had bought the better one.

2. it seems that withthe better flash the odds are greater that it will work with the next generation of cameras..

If I recall right, somewhere on GAry's website they tell you the clear is recommended if you will be shooting large groups...in large rooms.. or more of a photojournalist type stuff, it gives a little more light than the cloud..

I have 2 of the clear and never take a flash photo without them

 

[My2Girls66]

I have the SB600 for my D50 and D80. You have more options with it than with the 400. I got mine from Beach for $185- Amazon has it now for $172. The SB800 was more than I was willing to spend for something I don't use regularly. I bought the Sto-Fen diffuser for it- it was around $16 from Adorama. It is on the flash all the time.

 

[handicap18]

The SB-400 is a great little flash. However, it does have some limitations when it comes to bouncing. The SB-600 will do 85% of what the SB-800 will do for over $150 less. The SB-900 well, its well over $400 so we'll leave it at that.

I've been using the SB-600 for over 2 years and it is great. Its pretty powerful, has a lot of great bounce options (both in the vertical and horizontal position) and is easy to use. I also use the Gary Fong Lightsphere II Inverted Dome diffuser. It stays on my SB-600 for 95% of my flash shots.

I like having more versatility with the SB-600 over what the SB-400 offers. IMO, its worth the extra $80 or so.

 

[frugal_mar]

I like having more versatility with the SB-600 over what the SB-400 offers. IMO, its worth the extra $80 or so.

I would agree - I have an SB-600 and it is terrific piece of equipment. The flexibility over the SB-400 is definitely worth the price.

 

[broberts]

I just ordered myself the SB-600. It looked a lot more versatile than the SB-400.

 

[Chikabowa]

If you can swing it monetarily, go for the SB-600. It's more versatile, more powerful and the head rotates allowing you to bounce your flash in different places. The SB-400 will only swivel up-and-down, not side to side or behind you.

 

[annnewjerz]

Thanks so much for all of the suggestions!!

Since I can definitely not afford (nor do I need at this point) a flash that is over $400 and since I would like a flash with better swiveling capabilities than just up or down, the SB-600 it is! It has definitely made it onto my Christmas list, which has been turned into DH (I mean Santa) and hopefully I'll come down Christmas morning to a shiny new speedlight

 

[YesDear]

You have made the correct choice grasshopper! Am I showing my age?

From what I have read about you and your photography you should only consider the SB-600 or higher for all the reasons previously mentioned.

 

[rutgers1]

I have the SB600 and it has sat in my bag for the better part of the past three years. I never quite figured out how to use it. Is there someone out there who understands the settings and uses and wouldn't mind corresponding with me either via email or via the messaging system on this site? I sure would love to use it at some point. The main reason why I haven't used it much is because I am a big fan of natural light. But even when I did use it, I always felt that it was either way too strong or not strong enough.

 

[Experiment_626]

We have an SB-600 at work, and I have borrowed it many times for use with my D80. I'm pleased with it and would like to buy one (or an SB-800) for myself. I don't use flash all that often, but I've been impressed with it when I have used it.

SSB

 

[Experiment_626]

I have the SB600 and it has sat in my bag for the better part of the past three years. I never quite figured out how to use it.

What camera do you have to use with it?

SSB

 

[Steve's Girl]

I have the SB600 and it has sat in my bag for the better part of the past three years. I never quite figured out how to use it. Is there someone out there who understands the settings and uses and wouldn't mind corresponding with me either via email or via the messaging system on this site? I sure would love to use it at some point. The main reason why I haven't used it much is because I am a big fan of natural light. But even when I did use it, I always felt that it was either way too strong or not strong enough.

I just bought a book from Amazon that covers Nikon CLS systems (flash units). Don't recall the name as I'm at work. But I found if very informative. I have had the SB600 for almost 2 yrs. and do use it a lot. But I still found this book really helpful. It explained basic to advanced uses of the flash and I learned some new things.