Flash options for K100D

[pinholecam]

Just like to check, I have a K100D and would like to get a flash. There are a few concerns that have prevented me from making a decision so I'd like to get some opinions :

1. It seems that flashes are quite expensive (ie. Pentax 360, 540, Sigma 500 super). Is there a cheaper option? (used to have a Sigma 430 which worked well enough on my MZ5n )

2. If I were to bite the bullet and get Sigma 500 super, there is a new 530 model, so how much better is than and should I wait for it?

3. Can I get a wireless flash receiver/transmitter + ANY 2nd hand/cheapo flash? If so which transmitter/receiver works for K100D (the ones at sold @ Ruby Photo?; PT-04?)

Thanks

[alanswan]

1) The problem with using flash for film camera is the trigger voltage. The trigger voltage for film camera flashes runs into the hundreds (volts) while digital ones are typically < 10V. I have no idea what the trigger voltage for the Pentax DSLRs are, but there's been rumours it's pretty high. Then again, you have to decide for yourself if you want to risk your DSLR on a rumour to save a few hundred (?) dollars.

2) No idea. But see fengwei's post on Metz for an incoming new option for Pentax DSLR

3) I think any generic receiver/transmitter should work. Been using a really old (older than me?) electronic eye to trigger an el cheapo flash I got from Cash Converters...

[the mac 13]

Originally Posted by pinholecam 2. If I were to bite the bullet and get Sigma 500 super, there is a new 530 model, so how much better is than and should I wait for it?

The 530 model looks better than the 500, and I think it's an upgrade. If it was me, I would wait for the 530 when it's out. However, Sigma flashes are known not to be compatible with a certain combination, so if the 530 can't work on the K digital bodies, then 500 is for you. The 500 does work on the K digital bodies and it have been serving me quite well.

[pinholecam]

Originally Posted by alanswan 1) 3) I think any generic receiver/transmitter should work. Been using a really old (older than me?) electronic eye to trigger an el cheapo flash I got from Cash Converters...

I went down to OP and they had this "seagull" receiver that worked either optically (ie. triggered as a slave by on-camera flash) and/or via a transmitter, but the transmitter looked real crappy and bulky, so I did not dare buy.

So if I triggered the flash optically, does that mean I will still have a direct flash from my on-camera flash (ie. the master) on the subject? I am actually looking at bounce flash.

Looks like my cheapest option is a PT-04 (or other wireless Tx/Rx) and a cheapo f$30 flash from OP or 2nd hand camera shop.

Or... maybe the Sigma... damn... so hard to make decisions....