Pentax Flashes for k20d

pentax5400 · 11-04-2009, 09:20 PM

Hi everyone, does anyone know of any great older mountable flashes that would work great with a k20d.. I'd like an older flash just for a different feel but I love the af540 because of the power and the swivel... any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

*Ash* · 11-04-2009, 10:08 PM

Most flashes will work, but be sure of the flash's trigger voltage before mounting it on your K20D. There is no definitive voltage that is deemed safe, but voltages of <30V and definitely <10V haven't caused trouble AFAIK.

See here:
Photo Strobe Trigger Voltages

*res3567* · 11-05-2009, 01:45 AM

You can try the Vivitar 285 HV. However, I WOULD NOT USE THE VIVITAR 285! The HV model is supose to be safer. The newer ones (manufactufered in 2007 are suppose to be the safest). If you purchase the Wein Safe Sync, then you shouldn't have any problems with any older flash as this hot shoe adapter works as a buffer between the camera and the flash to bring the trigger voltage down to a safe level (usually 6 volts).

niloc22 · 11-09-2009, 08:26 AM

Hi,

The Pentax AF200T seems to get some good press around here. It will work in "Auto" Mode, of which there are two, one for shorter ranges and the other longer. If I remember rightly if you are in Tv mode it will set the camera to the correct F stop when used in either of these modes. It also has fully manual mode, with 4 levels of luminance, which is apparently handy if you get into the off camera flash scene (strobist?), I have some triggers on order to try this out myself.

The AF200S is fine too, but only has 100% flash in manual mode.

Colin.

*SOldBear* · 11-09-2009, 09:42 AM

Originally Posted by niloc22

The AF200S is fine too, but only has 100% flash in manual mode.

The AF200T is OK, but the AF200S does not "set the camera to the correct F stop." At least my copy doesn't with the K10D body.

I think the AF280T is better. It's not much bigger, but can tilt & swivel & have more power. You can have it for about $50.