A feedback on Ellichroms - Have been working with D-Lite 4 and BX the last 18 months or so... i would definitely recommend the new BX500Ri kit in place of the D-Lite 4:
- obviously you get more power available. Nice when shooting in large spaces.
- increased power adjustment increments. Not always useful, but sometimes (glass products packshots, some close-ups...) .
- Voltage stabilisation : even though specs look alike in this matter, from experience the repeatability is quite better on the BX. Which in practice means that you get more consistent results over a session and save valuable time and efforts post-processing, especially as far as WB is concerned. If you use a white/grey card for each session (i do) then the batch processing will provide sounder results over the series. An significant plus in my book.
note: it might also have to do with the shorter flash duration (cannot really say not being a theory freak).
- The added 200/300°K in color temp helps getting a better DR especially when using minimum to medium power.
- Integrated wireless transceiver module/receiver (Skyport) on the BX kit. This also means that the price difference with D-Lite is significantly narrower than it appears : you have to buy remote system in addition to the D-Lite.
Plus, setup is easier and faster with less acessories -> lesser risk of losing/misplacing/forgeting small pieces of hardware when off-site.
- Beside integrated Skyport, the BX kit is a bit more complete, with two same size soft boxes. Nice when you need a balanced lighting for say, paintings etc.
- More effective ventilation system on the BX -still a bit noisy.
- Durability seems better on the BX.
- Cases provided with kit for transport is more than ok.
Elinchrom in general has its cons, among which:
- You need to get used to their own scale system (2.3 to 6.3 on the BX500 RI) in lieu of the more common aperture stops. Not a real issue but a bit of practice's required.
- Accessories catalog complete but expensive. Lots of affordable compatible off-brand alternatives, though.
- Skyport system doesn't seem compatible with PocketWizard so you cannot trigger Elinchroms via flashmeters integrated transmitter such as Sekonic L-758DR or RT-32 separate module. Not a problem in itself, but not an available feature.
A last note on choice of power output: little price difference betwen 250 & 500 versions makes the latter more appealing. But keep in mind that if you work mainly in tight spots and/or use a lot of large aperture settings, with its the limited 5 stops down the 500 version can prove a bit awkward to work around even at minimum power.
Hope this helps
(hello guys, first post here after some extensive reading and viewing)