Originally posted by reivax ...(spending 200 plus on one is not an option right now)...
Who says you have to spend $200+ on a flash?
I currently have about 20 flashes (some of them listed in the signature). The only one costing me more than $200 is a copy of Pentax AF540 bought new (the other copy was bought used for exactly $200).
If you want a usable flash less than $200, here is a list. All of the flashes listed are safe for Pentax DSLRs, with swivel and tilt head, and decent power.
- $150 - $200: Metz 54MZ-4/54MZ-4i (my favorite). I bought them for much less, but you need to be patient and lucky to find the module SCA3702 NOT at full price ($70). The flash can be used with other modules, but not as convenient.
- $70 - $120: Nikon SB 24/25/26/28/28DX, Metz 54MZ-3. These are build like tanks. I used to have several Nikon SB units but I sold all of them for the Metz 54MZ.
- $40 - $60: Sunpak 444D/433D/422D/36DX/30DX, Vivitar 5600/5200/3700, Pentax AF280T, Metz 40MZ-3i/40MZ-2/40MZ-1i/40MZ-1.
If you don't mind handle-mount flashes, there are even more choices. I just sold a Sunpak 544 for only $50 shipped.