Originally posted by Happyman Funny that you mention the flash ocassionally dumping all its power for no apparent reason. Happens to me, too, with a K5 and a Metz 58 AF-1 flash, when bouncing the flash. Sometimes it happens on 2-3 shots in a row. Really annoying.
JimBrennan, what do you compare the sound of reel-to-reel with? And where do you buy records for that thing? It looks beautiful, and well kept, too.
This, to me, is the most serious problem with the Pentax system for professional work. The cameras are workhorses -- maybe not lightning quick AF, but generally reliable and suitable for all but the most demanding high-speed situations. The lenses cover most needs, and there are some real gems (Limiteds.) But Pentax flashes, or the flash system itself, is not particularly reliable.
When shooting any event, including weddings, I don't use any Pentax flashes. I use Metz CT-4 potato mashers, and Nikon SB speedlights, set to use the Auto Thyristor and manually controlled from the back of the flash. This gives me bullet proof flash exposures, with no "pre-flash" to make people blink. I never get a blown shot. (I would use my Pentax flashes in this manner, but the newer flashes reset themselves after a while, and I lose Auto settings that I dialed in.) I can also easily switch to off-camera wireless by using cheap wireless triggers.