One of the greatest things about the photography industry is the opportunity to not only have opinions, but to have options. Product reviews, like photographs are subjective. The DigiBee is an excellent piece of equipment that continues to prove itself as an asset to photographers on a daily basis. As a small company, we work hard to provide our customers with the service, products, and information they need to run their businesses and fuel their creative passion. As we look towards the future, the release of our new website and the CyberSense wireless remote are just the start of MANY things to come from Paul C. Buff, Inc.! Following in Paul’s footsteps, our engineers are hard at work behind closed doors, and have been intently listening to the photography communities needs, and the feedback from our customers from around the world. Competition, especially in both the tech and creative industries, is a great way to stimulate companies to push to not only develop what’s next, but what is beyond! We are thankful for the customers who not only trust in our products, but believe in our process. And as the old adage goes, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and we couldn’t agree more!
Glad to see your watching and taking a realistic and open minded view Paul C. Buff, Inc.! Thanks for leaving a comment! Buff users are indeed a dedicated bunch and as someone who used your gear for over 30 years - I totally understand why. But the world evolves and you are right about options being a good thing as they do stimulate innovation. I do hope that you have LOTS more innovation in store for us and you have my word - I will be one of the first to acknowledge it if and when you reveal it. In the meanwhile I will continue to champion the needs, desires and budgets of photographers around the world to keep equipment manufacturers on their toes and I wish you nothing but success!
Cybersense just a clunky stand in for the real solution. All I want is the receiver built into the strobe and a reasonably sized transmitter that goes on the camera so I can control the lights from the camera. One that has an easy to use ui and easy to read screen without a bunch of needless bar graphs, and such cluttering it and tiny font for the numbers. I don't want to use a huge secondary remote or brick of a transmitter with a big antenna sticking up in my hotshoe that takes 3 TH-cam videos to explain how to use it and is hard to read. Look at the Interfit remotes, the Phottix Odin II, even the Prophoto Air. Simple Ui including the buttons, easy to set up, easy to change the power, easy to see the current power setting at a glance. In short a flash transmitter done right. They are all easier and faster to use even though they also support TTL than the Cyber Commander. I also don't want receivers that have to be attached to the strobe via tiny fragile pins. Even Canon and Nikon are building radio receivers into their Speedlights now. I'm sorry but this isn't a case if imitation at all. It's a case of "The digibees are 85-90% of the way there lets take it the last 10-15% since Paul C. Buff STILL doesn't get it how to do wireless triggering right." You've done a great job FINALLY modernizing your website so it no longer looks like it was made in the late 90's by your computer savvy nephew. Now you just need to modernize your flash triggering system.
Paul C. Buff, Inc. I agree with the statement from a friend name mike !!! Paul x buff u need to innovate I'm afraid that joe is right on the money !! I have been using Paul C. Buff for close to ten years. Like yourself I have 12 lights and many of the light modifiers and stands from Buff. I have been a huge fan of the company over the years as Paul C. Buff made lighting affordable in an age where lighting was priced out of the average photographers price range. The simplistic design of products produced by Buff has taken many hits over the years but the products simply work like a Tank. Two years ago I did a photo shoot that lasted 24 hours straight on two sets where the lights (and molding lamps) stayed on the entire span of the shoot. The lights simply worked without fail. Earlier this year I was in Nashville and made sure to stop by the offices, to say I am a fan would be an understatement. The customer service at Paul C. Buff is second to none. Over the years I have been bitten by the latest and greatest new gear. When Yongnuo started producing flashes under $150 I was excited. When a brand name flag ship model was six times the cost it was an easy sell. Then they started having issues and I found Yongnuo had zero customer service. This left me with disposable unreliable gear. Soon after my trip to Buff headquarters I learned about yet another company from China called Godox. They had all of the bells and whistles with studio light that have built in power and supported HSS. To say I was interested would be an understatement only because of my dealings (or lack there of) with Yongnuo. A few months later Adorama started selling a rebranded Godox lights under the house brand of Flashpoint. This was huge for me as they service and back what they sell. I ordered my first Xplor 600 to test the waters. I found the battery life on these lights to be about 30% better than my Vagabond Mini. The fact that these lights have built in triggering systems making them completely wireless meant less points of failure. The main reason for my switch was being able to shoot using HSS. I quickly started building a kit around this new lighting solution. While setting up for a shoot one of my stands what’s knocked over by an assistant. The light had not been secured yet and did a nose plant from 15 feet off the ground. The light was destroyed. The following day I called Adorama and explained the situation and that I wanted to get an estimate for repairs. The person helping me over the phone noted that the light was only a few weeks old and that it was 100% covered by Adorama’s policy. They paid for shipping in both direction and replaced my light free of charge! I watched your video and though I agree with you the Paul C. Buff is a great company I do not agree that they are keeping up with the times. Since the release of the Einstein and the Vagabond Mini I cannot see them as inovating anything. The Digi Bee is just a Alien Bee with an LED Modeling light and the rebuild of the Cybersync trigger (that is actually worse than the original in my opinion) is not innovative. The new CyberSense tool is interesting but not innovative. And yes they rebuilt the Paul C. Buff website after leaving it the same for ten plus years but again this is not innovative. Though I love the company I moved on because I wanted to be able to offer my clients images expected in today’s world and my Paul C. Buff lights simply are not capable of shooting at HSS. Shooting at 1000th (or higher) of a second in bright sun light at 2.8 or wider is just not possible using Paul C. Buff lighting. In the studio Buff works fine, the Einstein can freeze the subject like a snap. Great company yes, innovative no. It has nothing to do with Paul C. Buffs passing, they have not been innovative in years.
Good for you Joe for doing a "retake" on your original review of the DigiBee. It's hard to take back words so it's impressive that you were willing to do that.
I learned more about strobes with your channel in the last 24hrs than I have in the last year. Thank you, great video. I just bought the honey badger, I’m so exciting.
Hi Joe. I have just subscribed to your channel after watching your videos on strobe vs speedlights. I am debating buying into the Interfit system (Honey Badger) or buying into the Godox system (AD200 or AD360). I would love to get your opinion on the Godox offering.
1) one thing I do love about the pcb commander is that it has a built in light meter and yes the ui is complex, but it works. 2) my other defense of pcb is their customer service has always been stellar for me. Biggest gripe is their shipping costs. They should just partner with a bigger distributor to be more accessible. The honey badger does look like a great product though. Lastly a question. Have you looked at the godox /Flashpoint stuff? I own two ad200s so far and I let them.
Thanks for commenting Zarli Win. I don't doubt that there are people like yourself who love the Cyber Commander. But to quote my words from the video "what I feel is" in other words - in my opinion.... Also at no point in the video did I make any negative comments about Buff's customer service - in fact I opened the video explaining that I have used their products for 30 years. I am very familiar with Godox/Flashpoint - I own two of them but I would not use them in my studio workflow - for me - they are location lights.
Joe Edelman hey Joe, thanks for the reply. Not trying to start an argument. I was just sharing my personal experiences. I agree the the godox units are great on location flashes. I haven't taken my bees outdoors since buying them. Occasionally I will add the ad200 as an optical slave in the studio when I need to add a other flash on the spot cause it's quicker to set up then an ac powered unit
Joe, much thanks for helping me get another universal remote! I took it out of the box, installed batteries, turned it on, set channel and group, and ... no go. Well, that's not exactly right. I could manage to get the modelling lights and beep to work in a sort of random fashion. So, thanks also for inspiring me to dig deeper into the problem. I methodically tried every combination of buttons and eventually discovered the magic trick: Although a power-on reset does nothing, if you simultaneously hold down the channel and group buttons for a couple of seconds while the unit is on, the remote establishes a reliable connection with the strobes. After that, things work as you would expect -- even after powering everything off and back on. If you're not using group A, the remote displays a power level for those phantom strobes, but you quickly learn to ignore that.
Hey Joe, what would you recommend for a HSS solution in a studio strobe that gives the best balance of $$ for features? I agree with your assessment of the Cyber Commander. Very cumbersome to use with my non-HSS Buff strobes and actually has fallen off my camera's hot shoe besides not reliably triggering the strobes. Thanks in advance!
Cougalum5 Sorry for the lack of clarity in my question. I mostly use the “studio“ strobes outdoors, particularly for capturing portraits against the sun, which usually requires high-speed sync. I suppose I could always pick up a neutral density filter.
@@prowlerphotography6028,it doesn't usually require HSS. Back in the 1980s, we did the job without neutral density filters or HSS. Only Zombietographers feel that they have to overpower the sun at high noon.
I've been desperately looking for a studio strobe that I could shoot at large apertures, preferably larger than, but AT LEAST f2.2. Do you think this would be possible with the Honey Badger at it's lowest possible power settings if I'd be shooting INTO a say 64" white umbrella with cover and diffuser? Obviously the PcB Einstein would be perfect for that as it can go down to 2.2Ws or so, but getting them in Europe is not easy and really expensive. And what's up with the Honey Badger having problems holding large umbrellas as some reviews state?
Both units will handle the 60" Octobox with their mounts Linc Williams. The Digibee uses the Buff mount and the Honey Badger is the Bowens Mount. As for the ratchet handle - the Buff unit has no ratchet so it would just fall forward. I believe the Honey Badger would - but check back tomorrow - I will gladly test it for you and report back.
Boy am I glad you posted this TODAY and not tomorrow! I was about to pull the trigger on the DigiBee's - You have definitely convinced me that I need to go and take a look at the Honey Badgers! Thanks Joe!
Whew Robert Jones! I am glad my timing was good. Do check them out. If you can I highly recommend visiting a store that ha them in stock so that you can test drive them. I have always been happy with the Buff products - but Interfit is doing it right and showing much more promise for the future.
I'm in the UK and have had my 3 Honey Badgers for about 2 months now. I use them in my very small home studio and they are the best lighting investment I have ever made. I agree with everything you say about them Joe, they are superb manual strobes and ideal for anyone wanting to get into studio photography or more advanced users who don't need overpowered and over complicated big units. I love 'em!
Many thanks Joe!! I'm just after ordering the double pack of these using your discount code from the Interfit website here in the UK. I've have been becoming increasingly frustrated with speedlites of late, fiddly, feeding them with batteries, the increasing recharge times and misfires. I never realised these would be of similar price to the Canon speedlites I've been using so I shall sell a few of those on. Thanks again!!
Great video (videos.. I have watched a few) I am contacting Interfit right now about the honey badger but figured I would ask you if you have first hand experience with this... Can the Honey Badger freeze liquid/water (at speeds of me lightly swinging it out of a glass onto a product)? I see they claim 1/900sec flash duration (t.1) at full power but they don't give a flash duration at lower powers. For some reason some strobes are discussed as longer at lower powers though most are much shorter. Figured maybe you had experience trying this. Thanks
Hey Joe, I wondered if you tested the Neewer Vison 4 700 watts strobe? For 299 is comes wit ha softbox, lithium-ion battery that users say last a whole day (wedding shooters love em), can over-power the sun... and the trigger is included in the package. I love Neewer products myself best band for your bucks I've been able to find, and german engineered. I'm hesitating between this and the Honey Badger now... hmm
Glad I caught you in time 12Family Advisors! The Digibees are great - but you will get a lot more for your money and spec-for-spec just as much flash with these Honey Badgers.
I just stumbled on this video today. I can't comment on the Honey Badger but do have plenty of experience with Buff gear. I had four Einsteins and all the accouterments. During my time with their gear (when PCB was still with us), I found the company to be second to none when it came to customer service. The Einsteins were also an absolute pleasure to use. HOWEVER: As so many have discovered, the Balcar style accessory mount used by Buff strobes is nothing less than a curse on mankind. The locking fingers on the Einsteins had to be modified several times and even the final version had issues holding large modifiers securely. The complexity and lack of reliability of the Balcar mount is what convinced me to move to another platform. I'm now heavily into the Godox system and couldn't be more satisfied. The Buff folks will have their work cut out for them if they hope to compete with the highly innovative and cost-effective studio equipment coming out of China these days.
Joe, I don't have strobes yet so I'm not familiar with quantifying power outputs. I was wondering if a set of Honey Badger at 320watt/sec full power may be sufficient for lighting up a large group of business people, say 40 (5 rows of 8) in a typically dimmed office environment. Great video, thanks for the info!
Your question has a lot of variables Al B. Depending on what kinds of modifiers, ceiling heights, how close or how far will you have to place the lights, etc. But I can tell you from my experience - a 320ws strobe like these Honey Badgers will definitely be enough to light a group that size. To keep it simple, if ceiling height will allow it - I would recommend using two shoot through umbrellas on the strobes and placing them high and aimed down towards the group - one on either side of the camera. It would also help with a group that large if you can shoot from an elevated position.
Great, thank you very much Joe! I understand that 'what if' questions without the whole story is difficult to answer. And I'm glad to see Adorama will ship the Honey Badgers to Canada.
I plan to save up for this lighting. I hope to get a set by spring time. I have read every thing I can find on them sounds just great. Thanks Joe for helping me find them.
Yes and no Oscar Garces. For you - maybe yes. For me definitely not. But let me explain. I have never said that the DigiBees OR the Honey Badgers are the flash that EVERY photographer should use for EVERY situation. These are the strobes that I prefer to use in the studio, They are simple and basic and total workhorses. That is important to me. The Godox strobes are great - but VERY loaded with features. For a photographer that is trying to find one set of strobes that does everything for them - this could be a good thing - for me, when I am in the studio - I don't want do have to deal with al of that - I can literally reach behind a DigiBee or a Honey Badger and control it by touch - no need to look at the unit. When I am shooting people in a studio - my attention needs to be on my subject not my gear. So in short - there is nothing wrong with the AD600B if it meets your needs.
Hey Joe! Greetings from Argentina! I'm a PCB user since year 2000, love their products but here we use 220 volts, so before Einsteins I have to use a 110-220V transformer to use my AlienBees. These flashes that you mention are 110-220V compatible? Can be operated by battery power for outdoor shootings? Thanks and keep it up man!
Greetings Mariano Garcia! The Buff DigiBees are listed at 120V The Interfit Honey Badgers are listed at 110V which is what Elinchromes, Photogenics and Impact strobes are listed at. The Honey Badgers will work with the Buff Mini Vagabonds and the Photogenic ION Sine Wave Converter. My understanding is that Interfit will also have a lithium battery option available in 2018.
Ok Mariano Garcia - here is what I have found out... Since you are in Argentina - the Honey Badgers would be available from distributors in Mexico. The Mexican units are 110v units that will work with a converter. As an FYI for viewers in Europe, Interfit UK does sell 220v versions of the Honey Badger. So no converter is necessary.
Hey Joe! That's great for 220v users around the world like me! There's one more option that worked for me ;) since this units are compatible with the Vagbond MiniLihtium and this chargers are multi-volt, you can charge the Vagabond plugged directly to 220v and use the (110v) flash battery powered, or use the Vagabond plugged in while you use the flash, and use it as a converter.
That is a great "hack" Mariano Garcia! Thanks for sharing! I did learn from Interfit today that they will be releasing a lithium battery in the first half of 2018
I started out with Einstein’s. Loved that system until all lighting equipment was stolen. Ended up going with the Flashpoint system and absolutely love the system. I know how you feel about High Speed sync, but I enjoy it nonetheless. To each his own. Paul C Buff’s limited availability and the fact that they shipped from Canada only, made my decision very easy. Great video Joe.
Thanks for the kind words Mike Edwards! I have nothing against high speed sync - my issue is with the folks who think they need it for all the wrong reasons and who don't realize that they can get the job done without it. But - I digress 😉 The Flashpoint / Godox strobes are great for portable set-ups and will work well in a studio. I actually own 1 token Godox Speedlight that travels in my camera pack for the rare occasions that I want to shoot ttl off camera flash in a pinch.
A pair of these are on my Christmas list! Will be a nice addition to the studio we hope to open soon near Orlando, Fl.! Also, after we open up, we'd love to have you come by sometime, Joe! I'll see ya on Tog Chat tonight buddy! Great video review! -Al Khouri III
Wow Joe this is a major jump for you to change in less than a year. How is the customer support if something breaks? I know customer service is a huge choice when buying gear. Great video to explain why you made the switch.
Its really good that I happened to watch this video before deciding to buy strobe lighs. I was about to go for Elinchrom but after watching this video I have changed my mind for Honey Badger. Thanks again, Joe for this video.
The fact that Paul buff is dead explains why my trigger is junk now. I lost my original and had to replace it, I was so disappointed, I have to wrap the trigger with tape to keep the battery in and the price is the same
Thanks Joe - I think you give a objective review. I'm glad Alien Bees has competition, but for now I'm staying with Buff. Their customer service is stellar and thankfully hasn't changed since Paul passed away. I've been very happy with the "bang for the buck" from their flash units. The vagabonds I've bought have been very reliable too. I hope Buff continues to innovate, but for now I can live with their shortcomings. FYI I'm kind of old school, but I prefer using Pocket Wizards or optical slaves as triggers instead of the proprietary units sold by Buff or Interfit.
Good video Joe. I have been using a pair of Interfit S1 strobes for about a year now and have never had anything bad to say about them. The only hiccup I have had has been with the transmitter freezing on me but that hasn't been a huge issue for me.
Hi Blair, we're glad you like your S1's! If you are still experiencing issues with your remote, please email us at support@interfitphotographic.com. We would love to help you out.
@@theJoeEdelman Personally, i like the option of batteries. Then again, i don't have much experience with lighting so i can't say how usefull the power output of 320 would be outdoors unless its dusk or night.
The Digibee base is aluminum. The Badger looks like it's all plastic. Can you verify? I ask because if you really need to crank it down on a boom, it will crack sooner or later.
Honest answer Pete Gomez - I don't know but give me a day or two and I will get you a definitive answer. They appear to be plastic but I want to get you a correct answer because.... 1. if you have asked me - I would have told you the DigiBee bases were plastic. 2. I have already abused the gear lock on the Honey Badger base because I was curious about how it would hold up - I sincerely don't feel that would be a concern. I'll get back to you.
Ok Pete Gomez - information direct from Product Designer at Interfit... "At the base of the Honey Badger, where the stand mount connects to the body of the flash, there is an internal aluminum plate for reinforcement. This aluminum plate bears the weight of the light and the modifier, not the plastic housing. While this does make the light more secure, I highly recommend using a YOKE (interfitphotographic.com/product/softbox-yoke-bowens-s-mount/O) for any softbox larger than 60". I can tell you that I have had them on a boom with my 60" Octodome that weighs an additional 4lbs - and there has been absolutely no stress. BTW... I don't really know what you feel that you have to crank it down extra because its on a boom. I use booms in my studio and don't need to tighten any more than I do on a regular stand because I au using spigot heads on the booms. The spigot head will catch if I don't tighten all the way and prevent the unit from falling. If you have a liability concern - you should be using security cables anyway - regardless of the flash mount because you could still have a modifer fall off.
Thanks for the info Richard Ollivierre! I did hear back from the folks at Interfit and there will be an Interfit Lithium battery coming out in early 2018! Stay tuned!
Buff is excellent gear and this guy should not be knocking their effective marketing program. Buff is a US Based company, a small company, that employees a direct to customer sales model. This keeps prices down.
"this guy" raisinsawdust My name is Joe. Unlike most other TH-camrs - I actually answer comments and talk to people. I NEVER said they don't make excellent gear - so how about if you don't misquote me. In this video and MANY others I have praised their gear and using it. and I didn't knock their marketing other than throwing a little shade on their new website which is actually a massive improvement over the old one. Maybe you should watch this video again and actually listen this time. The video is about the fact that they don't sell internationally and the fact that I switched because I have viewers around the world who cannot purchase a piece of gear that I recommended. As for your last two sentences - wake up! We are in the 21st century. Tons of small companies sell worldwide. The idea that they only sell domestically to keep prices down is crap when other companies can put out an identical or better product for less money and sell it around the world. I appreciate anyone watching my videos - but let's get the facts straight. You sound like a PCB owner who is apparently offended because somebody suggested that there might be another option to the gear that you purchased. Chill out - you don't have to change brands - I never suggested you should.
Danny Elam I don’t mind paying a little more for a tube, considering I can actually get the honey badgers in my country without paying a horrendous premium. The money I save in shipping to send to the U.K. offsets the cost of an eventual bulb replacement.
Possibly in the future shadyninja1 - but to this point - I have not used the S1's so I wouldn't feel comfortable talking about them. I can tell you that they look like awesome strobes if you need the HSS and TTL built in and especially if you want to be able to use them on location with lithium batteries. I did get to check them out at PhotoPlus in New York and I can tell you that I would certainly purchase them before I would purchase a Profoto.
Charles Fara I wouldn’t call it an attack, just providing honest insight. Besides he is right, Buff haven’t innovated for years and if someone outside the US wants to get their products they need to be prepared to swallow some pretty extortionate extra costs. Why would we do that when we can get the honey badger? I did and I must say these things are absolutely bullet proof.
I purchased a 2-strobe kit from B&H based largely on this video. The Universal remote worked only on channel 1, group A; so I sent only the remote back. It's been a month, and the remote has been back-ordered with no estimate of when it will be delivered. Interfit has nothing at all resembling support or customer service. My first email was answered with a 3 word reply showing they had not read my message. My follow-up email was not answered at all. In my case at least, Joe was wrong about Interfit as well.
Thanks for commenting Bryan Cox - I do hope you can understand that I take your post personally since I recommended Interfit and I can tell you from numerous conversations with Interfit users that this seems like a very unusual case. If you don't mind - please reach out to me @ joe@joeedelman.com and if you could forward the emails you reference and let me know which remote you have - I will reach out to my contacts and get you a proper response.
Bryan - I have just reached out to Interfit and all of their remotes are in stock. I have not received any emails from you yet. Honestly - it sounds to me like you are dealing with B&H Customer service and not Interfit - please forward the emails and I will make sure your problem is resolved.
So close to pulling the trigger and buying these instead of the Digibee, why not you might ask? Well, the one simple design flaw is no locking umbrella scew; WTF!!! Help me with a workaround and I might buy these bad boys. I will see things for what they are at the time.
Interfit is a great option . Their most recent release the Honeybadger unleashed is pretty awesome . Still waiting to see what PCB releases . Crickets , crickets ...
Interfit does have the S1 which has HSS and TTL and a lithium ion battery Steve Vanlandingham. For the Honey Badgers you can use the same solution that is available for the DigiBees - either a Buff Mini-Vagabond or a PhotoGenic ION Sine Wave Converter. They are almost identical and the Buff one is less expensive.
An update for you Steve Vanlandingham - I have been able to confirm from the folks at Interfit - there will be an Interfit Lithium battery coming out in early 2018! Stay tuned!
No it does not. However, I did have a very in depth discussion with them about this when discussing my 'broken globe'. They agreed it was needed and told me it was being worked on.
Both Paul C Buff and Photogenic make lithium-ion battery packs that will power the Honey Badgers A Photographer in Thailand. As for the Canon transmitter - I don't know for a fact, but I would be very surprised if it would control the Honey Badgers.
Our new battery pack is on it's way in the next couple months as soon as battery certification is complete! Keep your eyes on the Interfit socials and website (www.interfitphoto.com).
Three things that turn me away from this light is the name, the ugly yellow and the logo. IMO, all three seems more suited for a playful childrens studio as against a professional portrait setup. Am just thinking what first impression these will create in a corporate headshot environment. I am sure I will get "badgered" that its the result that matters than the look of the gear. Can Interfit advise if i respray (completly) in black, if this will void any warranties?
I dont know if I would really call it "unsponsored user" Joe never did say how much of a discount he got. Just my 2 cents. FTC Disclosure: Interfit Photographic has provided me the Honey Badger lighting units at a significant discount in exchange for my using them in my videos. I was not paid for the video and am not being paid for future videos or use. All words and opinions are my own.
Fair concern Steve Vanlandingham! I have no reason to be secretive. I approached Interfit after learning about the Honey Badgers online. I told them I was interested in the strobes as a replacement for the DigiBees because I really felt like I blew it by recommending the DigiBee. Interfit was wise enough to realize I have a large audience and offered to replace my DigiBee's with the terms being that I would purchase them at 30% off or work off the cost over the next year by doing for them what I was doing for Buff... showing their gear WHEN use it and mentioning their gear WHEN I use it. The agreement also includes me creating a few videos and articles for their blog - like I do for Photoflex and Savage... which btw - that exposure benefits me more than it does them. As I have expressed before, you have my commitment Steve - I will never take money to recommend a product and if I except gear for free or at a discount it will only ever be on the terms that the recommendations mean I use it and the words and opinions will always be mine.
Has anyone used the HB for video? I'm very interested to find this out and also if yes, is it possible to change temperature. Sorry if my question is a bit daft.
I have used it for video Chris Konstantine! They work great as long as you aren't recording audio. If you are - you need to keep them a good distance from your mic's as they have built in fans. Unfortunately you cannot change the color temperature unless you want to add gel filters.
Cheap knock off? More like they saw what Buff did and decided to do it way better. The poor UI and huge size of the Buff cyber commander as well as those tiny pins that I could tell would bend/break real easy just from product photos were the main reasons I was hesitant to invest in a Digibee setup. Looks like the Honey Badger fixed everything that was less than ideal about the Paul C. Buff strobes and are even a better value.
Has anyone used their customer service or warranty or have any new experiences with them? On a side note: I personally don't mind an old design that works. Using the cutting edge (or sometimes bleeding edge) technology isn't always the best I've found. And, as we've seen, just because someone had an exciting review, they can change their mind too ;)
I think you missed the point of my change Rodney Tyler... I had nothing bad to say about the DigiBees - my issue was that Paul C Buff doesn't sell outside the US. You might also note the date of this video and my observation about NO new product development from Paul C. Buff... well as of this date there is still NO new development. The Honey Badgers aren't bleeding edge, but the new Honey Badger Unleashed is. As for new experiences with them - I have had no issues.
Thanks for the clarification. I thought you were correcting a product review of the digibee rather than a company review. The side by side comparison made me think it was a product comparison as well ;) But, I understand what you're saying about the company. It is surprising especially, with all the battery technology available. Companies need to keep up our they seem to "fade"away.
I love the lighting that come from the PCBs equipment. And the customer service. But, I have been using the Godox product line for the last year and a half, Their built in 'receivers" and cordless system are idea for on location and studio projects. However, If PCB ever finds a way to create something similar - I am all in again.
Then you should definitely look into the Honey Badgers Irving Carrera! I highly recommend them and on the plus side - there are plenty of Buff users who are always on the look out for used gear. I had no trouble selling mine.
Awesome Irving Carrera! You should be fine with a 47 Octabox unless it is particularly heavy. I use a Photoflex 60" OctoDome that weighs 4 pounds and these stands can handle that easily. I couldn't find the exact stats on the stands but I am confident that you could easily work with an 8lb rig on them. A Honey Badger and a 60" Photoflex OctoDome weight 7lbs combined.
Oh Joe, I think you shot yourself in the foot with this one. I have Buff lighting 2XEinstiens 3XDigiBees, softboxs, beautydish, etc.....They have built up a reputation for their customer service, availability of repairs in a timely fashion, and sorry but my money is staying with Buff
Crewchief 227 you have been following me for quite some time and I really thought you paid better attention.Did I say YOU or anyone else should take your money from Buff??? NO. Did I say the DigiBee's suck??? NO Did I say Buff sucks??? NO I said I worry about their ability to innovate. I have made multiple videos talking about the DigiBee's I have talked about Buffs customer service numerous times in the past. In this video, I said I made a mistake by recommending a product that half of my viewers are unable to purchase unless they are wiling to spend an outrageous premium. I said the Honey Badgers are a great new flash that matches the Digibees spec-for -spec and the simple fact is - they improve on some. AND I said I was switching. So in summary - my foot is fine and my head stands by the opinions which are reasonable and the facts... which are facts. I appreciate your taking the time to comment - but maybe you could actually consider the big picture next time? This video provides valuable information and helps a lot of people. Just because it doesn't impact you is no reason to trash it or me.
Crewchief 227 I’m a U.K. purchaser so Buff have instantly ruled themselves out of being able to make a sale to me and the hundreds of thousands of other photographers across Europe. Seems silly to rule yourself out of such a lucrative market. Luckily, Interfit are much more of a forward thinking company and so, I’ve purchased the honey badgers. What can I say? These things are absolutely bullet proof in their build quality, they recycle fast, work without question and the results speak for themselves.
you released the digibee video in June and the Honey badger was announced in August. I think this just shows how fast things are changing in photography right now.
Indeed Tyler H! Lighting gear doesn't change quite as fast as the cameras do, but I am glad for companies like Interfit that are willing to do business internationally.
Only thing I didn't like about the HB was the glass dome. Very big and very easy to break....I found out the hard way. Though to be fair to Interfit, they replaced it free of charge no questions asked.
I'm in Canada and I bought Honey Badger because Alien bee was too expensive to ship in Canada! Finally, I was impressed by Honey Badger and really love it!
I'll have to look at these. I hope to find something with a battery pack so that I can go "on the road" with them. Now that I'm back from spending the holiday with my family, I'll take another look at your Facebook group.
These will work with a Lithium-Ion type Sine wave converter VTPSTTU. Both Photogenic and Paul C Buff offer units that are almost identical with the Buff unit coming in significantly cheaper.
An update for you VTPSTTU - I have been able to confirm from the folks at Interfit - there will be an Interfit Lithium battery coming out in early 2018! Stay tuned!
Hey VTPSTTU, we can confirm that we not only have a new pure sine-wave battery pack coming out in the next couple months, but we also should be announcing a brand new Honey Badger II in the Fall which will feature a built-in battery and several other enhancements!
Thank you, Joe. Never heard of Interfit before. I think I'll invest on a set and then, eventually, sell my Alien Bees that are really good, but are just not what I want anymore. I was looking into Godox, but hesitated because I need the modeling light for my type of work.
Sounds like wise thinking MuertoInc. Godox is a great brand and the Alien Bees are workhorses. You have to evaluate your needs and find the gear that will satisfy those needs. I too love the led modeling lamps.
If you are the creative consultant for the company that manufactures the Honey Badger you should probably state so up front right after you said you were not paid for this video.
Joe, Sorry about the mistake. The Interfit web site had a list of professional photographers and your bio as a Platinum Level Pro. So I mistook that and the verbage on Interfit "Events with our Pros" webpage. I apologize for my confusion.
Ah - I see what you are referring to Chris Parfeniuk. Ok - I am definitely not a consultant - but YES, I am recognized by Interfit as a photographer who uses their gear and I do promote it willingly - with my own words and opinions. I don't get paid to do so. There is a required FTC notice in the description of the video.
Glad you like your gear Zendail. I never suggested that you replace your gear and especially didn't recommend replacing portable strobes with studio strobes.
LOL, it was more of a tung-in-cheek comment. I wasn't expecting a reply :D Bowens is a superior mounting system anyhow. If I wasn't 4k in the hole on Godox/Flashpoint stuff I would strongly consider the Honey Badger. Great videos as always Joe.
I have both original AB800's and DB800's. The fact is that the DigiBees have proven to be less reliable and I avoid using them and in fact I had to buy 2 other AB800's. Both DigiBees have been replaced by Buff but I still avoid them. One just started firing on its own and the other just took a longer time to recycle. The LED light is nice but it turns out that there is a thermal problem where the digibee can shut down due to heat buildup from the LED. Also the triggering of the DigiBee is flaky as I doesn't always trigger or requires longer recycle time that the AB models. This is my experience. I have 4 AB800 and 2DB800 and I avoid using the DB's unless I have too.
Opinions, Yes I agree... But, nobody here became great overnight. Brining up Paul, my friend, is not a way to boost sales for someone else. Remember, OPINION ! Fact, yes he did sadly pass. Fact, yes it has taken some time to regain footing and ground. Fact, you did not become a Pro overnight..... Nor did I or anyone else that watched this.. Remember, OPINION ! You have to give people time to improvise, adapt and overcome. There may have been legal reason for not pursuing other avenues in the design field. Fact, you have to give people a chance. Fact, I am still a follower. This just my opinion. Have a great Holiday !
I have watched this video 3-4 times in which you criticize Buff products. And, as least as many times, I have watched your earlier video praising Buff products. Your video praising Buff products is more far more convincing than this negative one criticizing Buff products.
Maybe you should watch them both again Tom Bic! This video says NOTHING negative about Buff products. The negative statements are the FACT that at the time this video was made - you could not purchase Buff products overseas. The other negative statement was the CONCERN for future product development given the death of Mr. Buff. This video speaks to the quality of Buff products as does my previous video about DigiBees. Ironically as predicted - in the time since this video - all that Buff has release is a collapsible beauty dish that they have made in China and it's also available under several other brand names - on other words as I discussed - NO INNOVATION. Feel free to take exception with an opinion - but you can't debate facts.
The upside is there are a lot of dedicated Buff users Joey Cordeiro that are always on the lookout for a another flash. If indeed you are looking to build a system - I am not only impressed with these strobes but very impressed with where Interfit is headed as a company.
One of the greatest things about the photography industry is the opportunity to not only have opinions, but to have options. Product reviews, like photographs are subjective. The DigiBee is an excellent piece of equipment that continues to prove itself as an asset to photographers on a daily basis. As a small company, we work hard to provide our customers with the service, products, and information they need to run their businesses and fuel their creative passion. As we look towards the future, the release of our new website and the CyberSense wireless remote are just the start of MANY things to come from Paul C. Buff, Inc.! Following in Paul’s footsteps, our engineers are hard at work behind closed doors, and have been intently listening to the photography communities needs, and the feedback from our customers from around the world. Competition, especially in both the tech and creative industries, is a great way to stimulate companies to push to not only develop what’s next, but what is beyond! We are thankful for the customers who not only trust in our products, but believe in our process. And as the old adage goes, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and we couldn’t agree more!
Glad to see your watching and taking a realistic and open minded view Paul C. Buff, Inc.! Thanks for leaving a comment! Buff users are indeed a dedicated bunch and as someone who used your gear for over 30 years - I totally understand why. But the world evolves and you are right about options being a good thing as they do stimulate innovation.
I do hope that you have LOTS more innovation in store for us and you have my word - I will be one of the first to acknowledge it if and when you reveal it. In the meanwhile I will continue to champion the needs, desires and budgets of photographers around the world to keep equipment manufacturers on their toes and I wish you nothing but success!
Why do you guys not offer HSS? This is what we have wanted for years? Sold all my Paul C stuff and moved to Godox.
Cybersense just a clunky stand in for the real solution. All I want is the receiver built into the strobe and a reasonably sized transmitter that goes on the camera so I can control the lights from the camera. One that has an easy to use ui and easy to read screen without a bunch of needless bar graphs, and such cluttering it and tiny font for the numbers. I don't want to use a huge secondary remote or brick of a transmitter with a big antenna sticking up in my hotshoe that takes 3 TH-cam videos to explain how to use it and is hard to read. Look at the Interfit remotes, the Phottix Odin II, even the Prophoto Air. Simple Ui including the buttons, easy to set up, easy to change the power, easy to see the current power setting at a glance. In short a flash transmitter done right. They are all easier and faster to use even though they also support TTL than the Cyber Commander. I also don't want receivers that have to be attached to the strobe via tiny fragile pins. Even Canon and Nikon are building radio receivers into their Speedlights now. I'm sorry but this isn't a case if imitation at all. It's a case of "The digibees are 85-90% of the way there lets take it the last 10-15% since Paul C. Buff STILL doesn't get it how to do wireless triggering right." You've done a great job FINALLY modernizing your website so it no longer looks like it was made in the late 90's by your computer savvy nephew. Now you just need to modernize your flash triggering system.
Paul C. Buff, Inc. I agree with the statement from a friend name mike !!! Paul x buff u need to innovate I'm afraid that joe is right on the money !!
I have been using Paul C. Buff for close to ten years. Like yourself I have 12 lights and many of the light modifiers and stands from Buff.
I have been a huge fan of the company over the years as Paul C. Buff made lighting affordable in an age where lighting was priced out of the average photographers price range. The simplistic design of products produced by Buff has taken many hits over the years but the products simply work like a Tank.
Two years ago I did a photo shoot that lasted 24 hours straight on two sets where the lights (and molding lamps) stayed on the entire span of the shoot. The lights simply worked without fail.
Earlier this year I was in Nashville and made sure to stop by the offices, to say I am a fan would be an understatement. The customer service at Paul C. Buff is second to none.
Over the years I have been bitten by the latest and greatest new gear. When Yongnuo started producing flashes under $150 I was excited. When a brand name flag ship model was six times the cost it was an easy sell. Then they started having issues and I found Yongnuo had zero customer service. This left me with disposable unreliable gear.
Soon after my trip to Buff headquarters I learned about yet another company from China called Godox. They had all of the bells and whistles with studio light that have built in power and supported HSS. To say I was interested would be an understatement only because of my dealings (or lack there of) with Yongnuo.
A few months later Adorama started selling a rebranded Godox lights under the house brand of Flashpoint. This was huge for me as they service and back what they sell. I ordered my first Xplor 600 to test the waters.
I found the battery life on these lights to be about 30% better than my Vagabond Mini. The fact that these lights have built in triggering systems making them completely wireless meant less points of failure. The main reason for my switch was being able to shoot using HSS. I quickly started building a kit around this new lighting solution.
While setting up for a shoot one of my stands what’s knocked over by an assistant. The light had not been secured yet and did a nose plant from 15 feet off the ground. The light was destroyed. The following day I called Adorama and explained the situation and that I wanted to get an estimate for repairs. The person helping me over the phone noted that the light was only a few weeks old and that it was 100% covered by Adorama’s policy. They paid for shipping in both direction and replaced my light free of charge!
I watched your video and though I agree with you the Paul C. Buff is a great company I do not agree that they are keeping up with the times. Since the release of the Einstein and the Vagabond Mini I cannot see them as inovating anything. The Digi Bee is just a Alien Bee with an LED Modeling light and the rebuild of the Cybersync trigger (that is actually worse than the original in my opinion) is not innovative. The new CyberSense tool is interesting but not innovative. And yes they rebuilt the Paul C. Buff website after leaving it the same for ten plus years but again this is not innovative.
Though I love the company I moved on because I wanted to be able to offer my clients images expected in today’s world and my Paul C. Buff lights simply are not capable of shooting at HSS. Shooting at 1000th (or higher) of a second in bright sun light at 2.8 or wider is just not possible using Paul C. Buff lighting. In the studio Buff works fine, the Einstein can freeze the subject like a snap.
Great company yes, innovative no. It has nothing to do with Paul C. Buffs passing, they have not been innovative in years.
Spoken like a true gentleman Joe Edelman!
Good for you Joe for doing a "retake" on your original review of the DigiBee. It's hard to take back words so it's impressive that you were willing to do that.
I learned more about strobes with your channel in the last 24hrs than I have in the last year. Thank you, great video. I just bought the honey badger, I’m so exciting.
Thank you GamesTech Fun! I appreciate the kind words and support! Enjoy your Honey Badgers!
Hi Joe. I have just subscribed to your channel after watching your videos on strobe vs speedlights. I am debating buying into the Interfit system (Honey Badger) or buying into the Godox system (AD200 or AD360). I would love to get your opinion on the Godox offering.
Are the Buff units assembled in the USA?
1) one thing I do love about the pcb commander is that it has a built in light meter and yes the ui is complex, but it works.
2) my other defense of pcb is their customer service has always been stellar for me.
Biggest gripe is their shipping costs. They should just partner with a bigger distributor to be more accessible.
The honey badger does look like a great product though.
Lastly a question. Have you looked at the godox /Flashpoint stuff? I own two ad200s so far and I let them.
Thanks for commenting Zarli Win. I don't doubt that there are people like yourself who love the Cyber Commander. But to quote my words from the video "what I feel is" in other words - in my opinion.... Also at no point in the video did I make any negative comments about Buff's customer service - in fact I opened the video explaining that I have used their products for 30 years.
I am very familiar with Godox/Flashpoint - I own two of them but I would not use them in my studio workflow - for me - they are location lights.
Joe Edelman hey Joe, thanks for the reply. Not trying to start an argument. I was just sharing my personal experiences.
I agree the the godox units are great on location flashes. I haven't taken my bees outdoors since buying them. Occasionally I will add the ad200 as an optical slave in the studio when I need to add a other flash on the spot cause it's quicker to set up then an ac powered unit
No worries Zarli Win - sorry for sounding a bit defensive - I definitely didn't think you were starting an argument.
Joe, much thanks for helping me get another universal remote! I took it out of the box, installed batteries, turned it on, set channel and group, and ... no go. Well, that's not exactly right. I could manage to get the modelling lights and beep to work in a sort of random fashion. So, thanks also for inspiring me to dig deeper into the problem. I methodically tried every combination of buttons and eventually discovered the magic trick: Although a power-on reset does nothing, if you simultaneously hold down the channel and group buttons for a couple of seconds while the unit is on, the remote establishes a reliable connection with the strobes. After that, things work as you would expect -- even after powering everything off and back on. If you're not using group A, the remote displays a power level for those phantom strobes, but you quickly learn to ignore that.
Hey Joe, what would you recommend for a HSS solution in a studio strobe that gives the best balance of $$ for features? I agree with your assessment of the Cyber Commander. Very cumbersome to use with my non-HSS Buff strobes and actually has fallen off my camera's hot shoe besides not reliably triggering the strobes. Thanks in advance!
My recommendation would be to not use HSS in the studio.
Cougalum5 Sorry for the lack of clarity in my question. I mostly use the “studio“ strobes outdoors, particularly for capturing portraits against the sun, which usually requires high-speed sync. I suppose I could always pick up a neutral density filter.
@@prowlerphotography6028,it doesn't usually require HSS. Back in the 1980s, we did the job without neutral density filters or HSS. Only Zombietographers feel that they have to overpower the sun at high noon.
I've been desperately looking for a studio strobe that I could shoot at large apertures, preferably larger than, but AT LEAST f2.2. Do you think this would be possible with the Honey Badger at it's lowest possible power settings if I'd be shooting INTO a say 64" white umbrella with cover and diffuser? Obviously the PcB Einstein would be perfect for that as it can go down to 2.2Ws or so, but getting them in Europe is not easy and really expensive. And what's up with the Honey Badger having problems holding large umbrellas as some reviews state?
@Joe Edelman - The Honey Badger click ratchet system is cool - question - can it support the 60-inch octabox you use in your studio? Could the PCB?
Both units will handle the 60" Octobox with their mounts Linc Williams. The Digibee uses the Buff mount and the Honey Badger is the Bowens Mount. As for the ratchet handle - the Buff unit has no ratchet so it would just fall forward. I believe the Honey Badger would - but check back tomorrow - I will gladly test it for you and report back.
Boy am I glad you posted this TODAY and not tomorrow! I was about to pull the trigger on the DigiBee's - You have definitely convinced me that I need to go and take a look at the Honey Badgers! Thanks Joe!
Whew Robert Jones! I am glad my timing was good. Do check them out. If you can I highly recommend visiting a store that ha them in stock so that you can test drive them. I have always been happy with the Buff products - but Interfit is doing it right and showing much more promise for the future.
I'm in the UK and have had my 3 Honey Badgers for about 2 months now. I use them in my very small home studio and they are the best lighting investment I have ever made.
I agree with everything you say about them Joe, they are superb manual strobes and ideal for anyone wanting to get into studio photography or more advanced users who don't need overpowered and over complicated big units.
I love 'em!
Glad you enjoyed it Mac3music! Thanks for the kind words!
We're happy to hear you are enjoying the lights!
Many thanks Joe!!
I'm just after ordering the double pack of these using your discount code from the Interfit website here in the UK.
I've have been becoming increasingly frustrated with speedlites of late, fiddly, feeding them with batteries, the increasing recharge times and misfires. I never realised these would be of similar price to the Canon speedlites I've been using so I shall sell a few of those on.
Thanks again!!
You're welcome Kirsten tv100! You will enjoy the Honey Badgers - for studio work - they are much easier than speedlights.
Great video (videos.. I have watched a few) I am contacting Interfit right now about the honey badger but figured I would ask you if you have first hand experience with this... Can the Honey Badger freeze liquid/water (at speeds of me lightly swinging it out of a glass onto a product)? I see they claim 1/900sec flash duration (t.1) at full power but they don't give a flash duration at lower powers. For some reason some strobes are discussed as longer at lower powers though most are much shorter. Figured maybe you had experience trying this. Thanks
Wouldn't the best value be used PCB Einstein? You could get them around $300 and they have flash count to find lighter used ones.
What about remote shooting will this setup work off batteries or do I have to get the vagabond from Paul c buff?
Hey Joe, I wondered if you tested the Neewer Vison 4 700 watts strobe?
For 299 is comes wit ha softbox, lithium-ion battery that users say last a whole day (wedding shooters love em), can over-power the sun... and the trigger is included in the package.
I love Neewer products myself best band for your bucks I've been able to find, and german engineered.
I'm hesitating between this and the Honey Badger now... hmm
Wow! just ordered the Digibee db800 based on your video; glad I watched this. I can refuse the package as it's on the way.
Glad I caught you in time 12Family Advisors! The Digibees are great - but you will get a lot more for your money and spec-for-spec just as much flash with these Honey Badgers.
I just stumbled on this video today. I can't comment on the Honey Badger but do have plenty of experience with Buff gear. I had four Einsteins and all the accouterments. During my time with their gear (when PCB was still with us), I found the company to be second to none when it came to customer service. The Einsteins were also an absolute pleasure to use. HOWEVER: As so many have discovered, the Balcar style accessory mount used by Buff strobes is nothing less than a curse on mankind. The locking fingers on the Einsteins had to be modified several times and even the final version had issues holding large modifiers securely. The complexity and lack of reliability of the Balcar mount is what convinced me to move to another platform. I'm now heavily into the Godox system and couldn't be more satisfied. The Buff folks will have their work cut out for them if they hope to compete with the highly innovative and cost-effective studio equipment coming out of China these days.
Joe, would you recommend this light over a lp180 flash for a starting photographer?
Joe, I don't have strobes yet so I'm not familiar with quantifying power outputs. I was wondering if a set of Honey Badger at 320watt/sec full power may be sufficient for lighting up a large group of business people, say 40 (5 rows of 8) in a typically dimmed office environment. Great video, thanks for the info!
Your question has a lot of variables Al B. Depending on what kinds of modifiers, ceiling heights, how close or how far will you have to place the lights, etc. But I can tell you from my experience - a 320ws strobe like these Honey Badgers will definitely be enough to light a group that size. To keep it simple, if ceiling height will allow it - I would recommend using two shoot through umbrellas on the strobes and placing them high and aimed down towards the group - one on either side of the camera. It would also help with a group that large if you can shoot from an elevated position.
Great, thank you very much Joe! I understand that 'what if' questions without the whole story is difficult to answer. And I'm glad to see Adorama will ship the Honey Badgers to Canada.
Was planning to get digibee but now I will wait for your new video before I buy one. Always informative Joe.
I plan to save up for this lighting. I hope to get a set by spring time. I have read every thing I can find on them sounds just great. Thanks Joe for helping me find them.
I have a pair of Einsteins 640 and have been wanting to switch to the Godox AD600B. Wouldn’t you get more light for your money on this one?
Yes and no Oscar Garces. For you - maybe yes. For me definitely not. But let me explain. I have never said that the DigiBees OR the Honey Badgers are the flash that EVERY photographer should use for EVERY situation. These are the strobes that I prefer to use in the studio, They are simple and basic and total workhorses. That is important to me. The Godox strobes are great - but VERY loaded with features. For a photographer that is trying to find one set of strobes that does everything for them - this could be a good thing - for me, when I am in the studio - I don't want do have to deal with al of that - I can literally reach behind a DigiBee or a Honey Badger and control it by touch - no need to look at the unit. When I am shooting people in a studio - my attention needs to be on my subject not my gear. So in short - there is nothing wrong with the AD600B if it meets your needs.
Hey Joe! Greetings from Argentina! I'm a PCB user since year 2000, love their products but here we use 220 volts, so before Einsteins I have to use a 110-220V transformer to use my AlienBees. These flashes that you mention are 110-220V compatible? Can be operated by battery power for outdoor shootings? Thanks and keep it up man!
Greetings Mariano Garcia! The Buff DigiBees are listed at 120V The Interfit Honey Badgers are listed at 110V which is what Elinchromes, Photogenics and Impact strobes are listed at. The Honey Badgers will work with the Buff Mini Vagabonds and the Photogenic ION Sine Wave Converter. My understanding is that Interfit will also have a lithium battery option available in 2018.
Thanks Joe!
Ok Mariano Garcia - here is what I have found out... Since you are in Argentina - the Honey Badgers would be available from distributors in Mexico. The Mexican units are 110v units that will work with a converter.
As an FYI for viewers in Europe, Interfit UK does sell 220v versions of the Honey Badger. So no converter is necessary.
Hey Joe! That's great for 220v users around the world like me! There's one more option that worked for me ;) since this units are compatible with the Vagbond MiniLihtium and this chargers are multi-volt, you can charge the Vagabond plugged directly to 220v and use the (110v) flash battery powered, or use the Vagabond plugged in while you use the flash, and use it as a converter.
That is a great "hack" Mariano Garcia! Thanks for sharing! I did learn from Interfit today that they will be releasing a lithium battery in the first half of 2018
I started out with Einstein’s. Loved that system until all lighting equipment was stolen. Ended up going with the Flashpoint system and absolutely love the system. I know how you feel about High Speed sync, but I enjoy it nonetheless. To each his own. Paul C Buff’s limited availability and the fact that they shipped from Canada only, made my decision very easy. Great video Joe.
I've checked out the Flashpoints they have some nice features.
Thanks for the kind words Mike Edwards! I have nothing against high speed sync - my issue is with the folks who think they need it for all the wrong reasons and who don't realize that they can get the job done without it. But - I digress 😉 The Flashpoint / Godox strobes are great for portable set-ups and will work well in a studio. I actually own 1 token Godox Speedlight that travels in my camera pack for the rare occasions that I want to shoot ttl off camera flash in a pinch.
A pair of these are on my Christmas list! Will be a nice addition to the studio we hope to open soon near Orlando, Fl.! Also, after we open up, we'd love to have you come by sometime, Joe! I'll see ya on Tog Chat tonight buddy! Great video review! -Al Khouri III
You will love them Alikour Productions LLC! Thank you foe the comment and support!
Wow Joe this is a major jump for you to change in less than a year. How is the customer support if something breaks? I know customer service is a huge choice when buying gear. Great video to explain why you made the switch.
I haven't had a need to actually use their customer service yet James Lewis - but my research turned up NO issues with their customer service at all.
Awesome, I was on the fence about this, but no more thank you for this video!
Its really good that I happened to watch this video before deciding to buy strobe lighs. I was about to go for Elinchrom but after watching this video I have changed my mind for Honey Badger. Thanks again, Joe for this video.
The fact that Paul buff is dead explains why my trigger is junk now. I lost my original and had to replace it, I was so disappointed, I have to wrap the trigger with tape to keep the battery in and the price is the same
Thanks Joe - I think you give a objective review. I'm glad Alien Bees has competition, but for now I'm staying with Buff. Their customer service is stellar and thankfully hasn't changed since Paul passed away. I've been very happy with the "bang for the buck" from their flash units. The vagabonds I've bought have been very reliable too. I hope Buff continues to innovate, but for now I can live with their shortcomings. FYI I'm kind of old school, but I prefer using Pocket Wizards or optical slaves as triggers instead of the proprietary units sold by Buff or Interfit.
Good video Joe. I have been using a pair of Interfit S1 strobes for about a year now and have never had anything bad to say about them. The only hiccup I have had has been with the transmitter freezing on me but that hasn't been a huge issue for me.
Thanks for the feedback Blair Altman! If you are inside the year mark - have your transmitter checked out - it's still under warranty.
Hi Blair, we're glad you like your S1's! If you are still experiencing issues with your remote, please email us at support@interfitphotographic.com. We would love to help you out.
Great review Joe... I'm excitedly awaiting the imminent delivery of my Honey Badger 2 light set!
Awesome Steve Matthews - enjoy them! I sure do!
I dint here you mention HSS or TTL so I gather is not equipt with those?
the new model has both and can use batteries though the output is a little less, 250w i believe
That is correct, but then again who needs those features? 😂 The new Honey Badger Unleased has those features.
@@theJoeEdelman Personally, i like the option of batteries. Then again, i don't have much experience with lighting so i can't say how usefull the power output of 320 would be outdoors unless its dusk or night.
The Digibee base is aluminum. The Badger looks like it's all plastic. Can you verify? I ask because if you really need to crank it down on a boom, it will crack sooner or later.
Honest answer Pete Gomez - I don't know but give me a day or two and I will get you a definitive answer. They appear to be plastic but I want to get you a correct answer because.... 1. if you have asked me - I would have told you the DigiBee bases were plastic. 2. I have already abused the gear lock on the Honey Badger base because I was curious about how it would hold up - I sincerely don't feel that would be a concern. I'll get back to you.
It’s obvious he has the DigiBee tightening lever completely loosened when he did that shot.
Pete Gomez and yes, the DigiBee base is solid. I use it daily
I promise you that the Honey Badger was also completely loosened Kimberly Nail! The geared teeth are what stops if from falling.
Ok Pete Gomez - information direct from Product Designer at Interfit...
"At the base of the Honey Badger, where the stand mount connects to the body of the flash, there is an internal aluminum plate for reinforcement. This aluminum plate bears the weight of the light and the modifier, not the plastic housing. While this does make the light more secure, I highly recommend using a YOKE (interfitphotographic.com/product/softbox-yoke-bowens-s-mount/O) for any softbox larger than 60".
I can tell you that I have had them on a boom with my 60" Octodome that weighs an additional 4lbs - and there has been absolutely no stress. BTW... I don't really know what you feel that you have to crank it down extra because its on a boom. I use booms in my studio and don't need to tighten any more than I do on a regular stand because I au using spigot heads on the booms. The spigot head will catch if I don't tighten all the way and prevent the unit from falling. If you have a liability concern - you should be using security cables anyway - regardless of the flash mount because you could still have a modifer fall off.
Honey Badger is $189 now at B&H.
Hi Joe, What type of Power Pack can be used with the Honey Badger for on location?
Same as the DigiBee Richard Ollivierre. You can go with the Buff Mini Vagabond or the Photogenic ION Sine Eave Converter.
Thanks Joe, l just heard they are gonna release a power pack for it, early in the new year from chopstick photography
Hmmm - I will reach out and get you a definitive answer Richard Ollivierre!
Thanks Joe...
Thanks for the info Richard Ollivierre! I did hear back from the folks at Interfit and there will be an Interfit Lithium battery coming out in early 2018! Stay tuned!
Buff is excellent gear and this guy should not be knocking their effective marketing program. Buff is a US Based company, a small company, that employees a direct to customer sales model. This keeps prices down.
"this guy" raisinsawdust My name is Joe. Unlike most other TH-camrs - I actually answer comments and talk to people. I NEVER said they don't make excellent gear - so how about if you don't misquote me. In this video and MANY others I have praised their gear and using it. and I didn't knock their marketing other than throwing a little shade on their new website which is actually a massive improvement over the old one. Maybe you should watch this video again and actually listen this time. The video is about the fact that they don't sell internationally and the fact that I switched because I have viewers around the world who cannot purchase a piece of gear that I recommended. As for your last two sentences - wake up! We are in the 21st century. Tons of small companies sell worldwide. The idea that they only sell domestically to keep prices down is crap when other companies can put out an identical or better product for less money and sell it around the world. I appreciate anyone watching my videos - but let's get the facts straight. You sound like a PCB owner who is apparently offended because somebody suggested that there might be another option to the gear that you purchased. Chill out - you don't have to change brands - I never suggested you should.
Flash tubes for the Honey Badger are $70. The Buff flash tubes are $35.
Danny Elam I don’t mind paying a little more for a tube, considering I can actually get the honey badgers in my country without paying a horrendous premium.
The money I save in shipping to send to the U.K. offsets the cost of an eventual bulb replacement.
Joe, please can you do a review of the interfit s1
Possibly in the future shadyninja1 - but to this point - I have not used the S1's so I wouldn't feel comfortable talking about them. I can tell you that they look like awesome strobes if you need the HSS and TTL built in and especially if you want to be able to use them on location with lithium batteries. I did get to check them out at PhotoPlus in New York and I can tell you that I would certainly purchase them before I would purchase a Profoto.
Thanks Joe for the info! Good to know this data.
You're very welcome Edwin Lewis! I am glad you enjoyed it!
Can you use honey badger with a speedlight?
The Honey Badger does care !!! As always thanks for your help and advice Señor Joe :)
You're welcome Xeo989 I appreciate the comment!
Good review Joe. I own many Buff products and never looked at it from this perspective.
Thank you ANTHONY SCOTT!
I love your videos but I cant believe the way you attack the Buff company in this video.
Charles Fara I wouldn’t call
it an attack, just providing honest insight. Besides he is right, Buff haven’t innovated for years and if someone outside the US wants to get their products they need to be prepared to swallow some pretty extortionate extra costs.
Why would we do that when we can get the honey badger? I did and I must say these things are absolutely bullet proof.
I purchased a 2-strobe kit from B&H based largely on this video. The Universal remote worked only on channel 1, group A; so I sent only the remote back. It's been a month, and the remote has been back-ordered with no estimate of when it will be delivered. Interfit has nothing at all resembling support or customer service. My first email was answered with a 3 word reply showing they had not read my message. My follow-up email was not answered at all. In my case at least, Joe was wrong about Interfit as well.
Thanks for commenting Bryan Cox - I do hope you can understand that I take your post personally since I recommended Interfit and I can tell you from numerous conversations with Interfit users that this seems like a very unusual case. If you don't mind - please reach out to me @ joe@joeedelman.com and if you could forward the emails you reference and let me know which remote you have - I will reach out to my contacts and get you a proper response.
Bryan - I have just reached out to Interfit and all of their remotes are in stock. I have not received any emails from you yet. Honestly - it sounds to me like you are dealing with B&H Customer service and not Interfit - please forward the emails and I will make sure your problem is resolved.
Thanks for this! You just saved me a lot of money, and time.
Awesome Read Castor! Thanks for commenting!
How does the interfit service stack up to the Paul C Buff Service.
Superb. Interfit's customer service is astonishingly good.
So close to pulling the trigger and buying these instead of the Digibee, why not you might ask? Well, the one simple design flaw is no locking umbrella scew; WTF!!! Help me with a workaround and I might buy these bad boys. I will see things for what they are at the time.
caltari These have a really strong auto-clamping umbrella mount. I've tested it with an 8mm rod and shaken it around with no problems.
Tried to look for this item on amazon, however it does not ship to Canada :*(
Interfit is a great option . Their most recent release the Honeybadger unleashed is pretty awesome . Still waiting to see what PCB releases . Crickets , crickets ...
Does Interfit come with a battery option if I'm shooting in the field?
Interfit does have the S1 which has HSS and TTL and a lithium ion battery Steve Vanlandingham. For the Honey Badgers you can use the same solution that is available for the DigiBees - either a Buff Mini-Vagabond or a PhotoGenic ION Sine Wave Converter. They are almost identical and the Buff one is less expensive.
An update for you Steve Vanlandingham - I have been able to confirm from the folks at Interfit - there will be an Interfit Lithium battery coming out in early 2018! Stay tuned!
thanks for the update Joe
No it does not. However, I did have a very in depth discussion with them about this when discussing my 'broken globe'. They agreed it was needed and told me it was being worked on.
Joe Edelman
I can confirm for you that Interfit will be releasing a Lithium battery for field work in the first quarter of 2018.
Can the Honey Badger , be used with a battery pack and can the canon Transmitter ST-E3-RT be used with the HB .. thanks
Both Paul C Buff and Photogenic make lithium-ion battery packs that will power the Honey Badgers A Photographer in Thailand. As for the Canon transmitter - I don't know for a fact, but I would be very surprised if it would control the Honey Badgers.
Thank you
I have been able to confirm from the folks at Interfit - there will be an Interfit Lithium battery coming out in early 2018! Stay tuned!
Our new battery pack is on it's way in the next couple months as soon as battery certification is complete! Keep your eyes on the Interfit socials and website (www.interfitphoto.com).
Three things that turn me away from this light is the name, the ugly yellow and the logo.
IMO, all three seems more suited for a playful childrens studio as against a professional portrait setup.
Am just thinking what first impression these will create in a corporate headshot environment.
I am sure I will get "badgered" that its the result that matters than the look of the gear.
Can Interfit advise if i respray (completly) in black, if this will void any warranties?
Honest review from an unsponsored user. Advice from a pro' . What more could you want? It's nice to see you aren't afraid to call it as you see it.
I dont know if I would really call it "unsponsored user" Joe never did say how much of a discount he got. Just my 2 cents.
FTC Disclosure: Interfit Photographic has provided me the Honey Badger lighting units at a significant discount in exchange for my using them in my videos. I was not paid for the video and am not being paid for future videos or use. All words and opinions are my own.
Fair concern Steve Vanlandingham! I have no reason to be secretive. I approached Interfit after learning about the Honey Badgers online. I told them I was interested in the strobes as a replacement for the DigiBees because I really felt like I blew it by recommending the DigiBee. Interfit was wise enough to realize I have a large audience and offered to replace my DigiBee's with the terms being that I would purchase them at 30% off or work off the cost over the next year by doing for them what I was doing for Buff... showing their gear WHEN use it and mentioning their gear WHEN I use it. The agreement also includes me creating a few videos and articles for their blog - like I do for Photoflex and Savage... which btw - that exposure benefits me more than it does them. As I have expressed before, you have my commitment Steve - I will never take money to recommend a product and if I except gear for free or at a discount it will only ever be on the terms that the recommendations mean I use it and the words and opinions will always be mine.
Thank you Guy Wright! I appreciate the kind words and support!
Thanks Joe for being up front with all of us. It is highly appreciated.
Has anyone used the HB for video? I'm very interested to find this out and also if yes, is it possible to change temperature. Sorry if my question is a bit daft.
I have used it for video Chris Konstantine! They work great as long as you aren't recording audio. If you are - you need to keep them a good distance from your mic's as they have built in fans. Unfortunately you cannot change the color temperature unless you want to add gel filters.
For me it's Canon and Paul C Buff only, best customer service in the world from both of those companies keep me buying their products.
LOL - good for you Kevin P. Why not - I mean some people actually use Sony!! 🤪😳📸
Buff is MADE IN THE USA, how about Interfit ?
Buff was made in the U.S., but sadly, I know at least their Einsteins are now made overseas. I still love Buff, but that change was a disappointment.
Unfortunately, this doesn't mean what it once did..
@@EricArtman I thought you were wrong, but the Einsteins are only designed in the USA, it's on the label.
Has the fact that it doesn’t go below 4.0 caused any problems for you yet, Joe?
Cheap knock off? More like they saw what Buff did and decided to do it way better. The poor UI and huge size of the Buff cyber commander as well as those tiny pins that I could tell would bend/break real easy just from product photos were the main reasons I was hesitant to invest in a Digibee setup. Looks like the Honey Badger fixed everything that was less than ideal about the Paul C. Buff strobes and are even a better value.
Agreed josh885! Thanks for commenting!
Has anyone used their customer service or warranty or have any new experiences with them? On a side note: I personally don't mind an old design that works. Using the cutting edge (or sometimes bleeding edge) technology isn't always the best I've found. And, as we've seen, just because someone had an exciting review, they can change their mind too ;)
I think you missed the point of my change Rodney Tyler... I had nothing bad to say about the DigiBees - my issue was that Paul C Buff doesn't sell outside the US. You might also note the date of this video and my observation about NO new product development from Paul C. Buff... well as of this date there is still NO new development. The Honey Badgers aren't bleeding edge, but the new Honey Badger Unleashed is. As for new experiences with them - I have had no issues.
Thanks for the clarification. I thought you were correcting a product review of the digibee rather than a company review. The side by side comparison made me think it was a product comparison as well ;)
But, I understand what you're saying about the company. It is surprising especially, with all the battery technology available. Companies need to keep up our they seem to "fade"away.
I love the lighting that come from the PCBs equipment. And the customer service. But, I have been using the Godox product line for the last year and a half, Their built in 'receivers" and cordless system are idea for on location and studio projects. However, If PCB ever finds a way to create something similar - I am all in again.
Thanks to not forget your fans outside the USA !
You're welcome Ata Lipsos! I try!
Great review Joe
Thank you steve bennett! I appreciate the comment.
Looks interesting if I'd ever set up a home studio. Until then, I prefer my speed lights.
Nothin wrong with that sfr3455f! Thanks for commenting!
I’m think of switching I have 2 b800 but no remote I have to spend another 200 bucks if I but this I save close to 180
Then you should definitely look into the Honey Badgers Irving Carrera! I highly recommend them and on the plus side - there are plenty of Buff users who are always on the look out for used gear. I had no trouble selling mine.
Joe Edelman just got them for 639.99 with ur coupon code also will the stands fit a 47 inch Octabox or will be to heavy
Awesome Irving Carrera! You should be fine with a 47 Octabox unless it is particularly heavy. I use a Photoflex 60" OctoDome that weighs 4 pounds and these stands can handle that easily. I couldn't find the exact stats on the stands but I am confident that you could easily work with an 8lb rig on them. A Honey Badger and a 60" Photoflex OctoDome weight 7lbs combined.
Joe Edelman we’re can u buy the photoflex octabox or what octabox will u recommend I have a cheap fotodiox one pain in the but to assemble
Here you go Irving Carrera: amzn.to/2A9256k
Oh Joe, I think you shot yourself in the foot with this one. I have Buff lighting 2XEinstiens 3XDigiBees, softboxs, beautydish, etc.....They have built up a reputation for their customer service, availability of repairs in a timely fashion, and sorry but my money is staying with Buff
Crewchief 227 you have been following me for quite some time and I really thought you paid better attention.Did I say YOU or anyone else should take your money from Buff??? NO. Did I say the DigiBee's suck??? NO Did I say Buff sucks??? NO I said I worry about their ability to innovate. I have made multiple videos talking about the DigiBee's I have talked about Buffs customer service numerous times in the past. In this video, I said I made a mistake by recommending a product that half of my viewers are unable to purchase unless they are wiling to spend an outrageous premium. I said the Honey Badgers are a great new flash that matches the Digibees spec-for -spec and the simple fact is - they improve on some. AND I said I was switching. So in summary - my foot is fine and my head stands by the opinions which are reasonable and the facts... which are facts. I appreciate your taking the time to comment - but maybe you could actually consider the big picture next time? This video provides valuable information and helps a lot of people. Just because it doesn't impact you is no reason to trash it or me.
Crewchief 227 I’m a U.K. purchaser so Buff have instantly ruled themselves out of being able to make a sale to me and the hundreds of thousands of other photographers across Europe. Seems silly to rule yourself out of such a lucrative market.
Luckily, Interfit are much more of a forward thinking company and so, I’ve purchased the honey badgers. What can I say? These things are absolutely bullet proof in their build quality, they recycle fast, work without question and the results speak for themselves.
I was about to drop a couple of grand on Digibee's. Glad I hesitated! Thanks Joe!!!
Do check them out James Bailey! There is nothing wrong with the DigiBees, but you get more bang for your buck with the Honey Badgers.
you released the digibee video in June and the Honey badger was announced in August. I think this just shows how fast things are changing in photography right now.
Indeed Tyler H! Lighting gear doesn't change quite as fast as the cameras do, but I am glad for companies like Interfit that are willing to do business internationally.
Its just me or that looks very cheapee made.
Between you and meWeezy G. - it's just you. It is every bit as solid as the DigiBee.
Only thing I didn't like about the HB was the glass dome. Very big and very easy to break....I found out the hard way. Though to be fair to Interfit, they replaced it free of charge no questions asked.
Awesome just what I was looking for cheers
Thank you Mick Hanlon! I appreciate the comment.
Wouldn't trade my digi bees! Plus Paul c buff's attachments and softboxes are more convenient and easier to deal with, for me anyways.
Awesome Not Really A Waitress! Thanks for commenting! I missed the part where I suggested you should switch anyway.
I'm in Canada and I bought Honey Badger because Alien bee was too expensive to ship in Canada! Finally, I was impressed by Honey Badger and really love it!
Awesome Alain Biron! Thanks for commenting!
I'll have to look at these. I hope to find something with a battery pack so that I can go "on the road" with them.
Now that I'm back from spending the holiday with my family, I'll take another look at your Facebook group.
These will work with a Lithium-Ion type Sine wave converter VTPSTTU. Both Photogenic and Paul C Buff offer units that are almost identical with the Buff unit coming in significantly cheaper.
An update for you VTPSTTU - I have been able to confirm from the folks at Interfit - there will be an Interfit Lithium battery coming out in early 2018! Stay tuned!
Hey VTPSTTU, we can confirm that we not only have a new pure sine-wave battery pack coming out in the next couple months, but we also should be announcing a brand new Honey Badger II in the Fall which will feature a built-in battery and several other enhancements!
Thank you, Joe. Never heard of Interfit before. I think I'll invest on a set and then, eventually, sell my Alien Bees that are really good, but are just not what I want anymore. I was looking into Godox, but hesitated because I need the modeling light for my type of work.
Sounds like wise thinking MuertoInc. Godox is a great brand and the Alien Bees are workhorses. You have to evaluate your needs and find the gear that will satisfy those needs. I too love the led modeling lamps.
If you are the creative consultant for the company that manufactures the Honey Badger you should probably state so up front right after you said you were not paid for this video.
I am NOT a creative consultant for Interfit Chris - so why would I say that?
Joe, Sorry about the mistake. The Interfit web site had a list of professional photographers and your bio as a Platinum Level Pro. So I mistook that and the verbage on Interfit "Events with our Pros" webpage. I apologize for my confusion.
Ah - I see what you are referring to Chris Parfeniuk. Ok - I am definitely not a consultant - but YES, I am recognized by Interfit as a photographer who uses their gear and I do promote it willingly - with my own words and opinions. I don't get paid to do so. There is a required FTC notice in the description of the video.
You're the Best!
Thank you DJVARAO! I appreciate the comment.
As someone who's mobile, you cant pay me enough to get rid of my Godox/Flashpoint stuff. :D
Glad you like your gear Zendail. I never suggested that you replace your gear and especially didn't recommend replacing portable strobes with studio strobes.
LOL, it was more of a tung-in-cheek comment.
I wasn't expecting a reply :D
Bowens is a superior mounting system anyhow. If I wasn't 4k in the hole on Godox/Flashpoint stuff I would strongly consider the Honey Badger.
Great videos as always Joe.
Thank you Zendail! I appreciate the kind words and support!
I have both original AB800's and DB800's. The fact is that the DigiBees
have proven to be less reliable and I avoid using them and in fact I had
to buy 2 other AB800's. Both DigiBees have been replaced by Buff but I
still avoid them. One just started firing on its own and the other just
took a longer time to recycle. The LED light is nice but it turns out
that there is a thermal problem where the digibee can shut down due to
heat buildup from the LED. Also the triggering of the DigiBee is flaky
as I doesn't always trigger or requires longer recycle time that the AB
models. This is my experience. I have 4 AB800 and 2DB800 and I avoid
using the DB's unless I have too.
Thanks for the feedback Peter Gordon!
Excellent review
Thank you! Gregory Sargeant, Glad you enjoyed it!
I hate commercials posing as reviews.
So do I Tom Thumb! Glad we agree - thats why I made NO indication or reference that this was a review.
Opinions, Yes I agree... But, nobody here became great overnight. Brining up Paul, my friend, is not a way to boost sales for someone else. Remember, OPINION ! Fact, yes he did sadly pass. Fact, yes it has taken some time to regain footing and ground. Fact, you did not become a Pro overnight..... Nor did I or anyone else that watched this.. Remember, OPINION ! You have to give people time to improvise, adapt and overcome. There may have been legal reason for not pursuing other avenues in the design field. Fact, you have to give people a chance. Fact, I am still a follower. This just my opinion. Have a great Holiday !
My late father brought me up to realise it takes a man to admit when they are wrong.
Sounds like our Fathers shared similar values Mark Harris! Thank you for commenting!
I have watched this video 3-4 times in which you criticize Buff products. And, as least as many times, I have watched your earlier video praising Buff products. Your video praising Buff products is more far more convincing than this negative one criticizing Buff products.
Maybe you should watch them both again Tom Bic! This video says NOTHING negative about Buff products. The negative statements are the FACT that at the time this video was made - you could not purchase Buff products overseas. The other negative statement was the CONCERN for future product development given the death of Mr. Buff. This video speaks to the quality of Buff products as does my previous video about DigiBees. Ironically as predicted - in the time since this video - all that Buff has release is a collapsible beauty dish that they have made in China and it's also available under several other brand names - on other words as I discussed - NO INNOVATION.
Feel free to take exception with an opinion - but you can't debate facts.
Anyone want to buy my db400? I think I found my new system.
The upside is there are a lot of dedicated Buff users Joey Cordeiro that are always on the lookout for a another flash. If indeed you are looking to build a system - I am not only impressed with these strobes but very impressed with where Interfit is headed as a company.