Buff Einstein 640

Contents

Rob Galbraith has a more serious review for sports usage. This page is mostly just me rambling.

Why?

640 Ws (wattseconds) output
- Comparison to hotshoe strobe guide numbers is basically impossible, the internet suggests ~160 Ws for top-end speedlights
Weighs just on 2kg
About the size of a tissue box

Compared to the B1600, which is also rated at 640 Ws:

Universal voltage
Cheaper wireless receiver modules
Wireless controller is more expensive, but far more capable
Heavily integrated 2nd-gen remote control, the Alienbee 1st-gen cybersync stuff is kinda janky (perfectly functional, just not as nice)
Better output-level control, another 3 stops of latitude
Only ~350g heavier
Brighter modelling lamp (250W vs. 150W)
Modelling lamp can track flash output with offset
Slightly faster cycle time
Flash duration proportional to power, like hotshoe strobes

Attribute	Einstein 640	Speedlight SB-800	Notes
Weight	2kg	500g	They're probably fairly close in terms of output-per-gram
Portability	Much larger	Compact even with attached foot	-
Light output	Absurdly high	Rather high	Numerical comparison would require some apples-to-apples testing
Burst capability	Good	A few flashes, depending on power	Not specced. Try opto-slaving the E640 to a speedlight's modelling light for a laugh
Cycle time	1.7sec to full output	2.7sec to full output	2.3sec quoted for newer speedlights
Output control	1/10th f-stop	1/3rd f-stop	-
Continuous shooting	Basically non-stop	Subject to overheating	Speedlight behaviour varies between models. Buff gear only defines a maximum continuous usage for the Zeus lineup
Modelling lamp	250W bulb	None	Usefulness heavily dependent on your style, E640 cannot use lamp with battery

Wireless receiver sticks out a long way, can't be stowed with it installed
- The Buff carry bag doesn't solve this, but has a little pouch in the lid for keeping the receiver

Fastpack 200