R-D1 with Vivitar 285

[daveproctor]

I've at last managed to get hold of an R-D1 from a friend who has bought an M8. Could anyone tell me whether using an old Vivitar 285 flash will be ok with this? I've used it with other digital cameras but am concerned that the trigger voltage could potentially damage the Epson.

Thanks

Dave

 

[mwooten]

Dave,
Look first on RichC's web site (LINK), and then look on this page (LINK).

I use a Nikon SB-28 on my RD1 with either the hot-shoe or a PC cord.

Take care,
Michael

 

[daveproctor]

Vivitar 285

Vivitar 285

Michael

Thanks for that.

My flash is the older non-HV version and I've had various answers about the trigger voltage, some say it's fine others that potentially the voltage can run at a camera pulverising 350v.

If anyone has tried the older version I'd love to hear otherwise I think it will be safer to search out an HV version.

Dave

 

[anglophone1]

I have used both 283s and 285s on my RDs with a wein safe sync
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/245292-REG/Wein_W990560_Safe_Sync_Hot_Shoe_to.html
[better safe than sorry], however if you have a later model 285HV should be OK sans......................................
Best
Clive

 

[indianavince]

I would be hesitant to put any flash on the Epson's rangefinder flash shoe. Use a cord like the Nikon SC-17. I think the weight of the flash can tourque the rangfinder mechanism which is so touchy allready. Just my opinion after using an RD-1 for 9 months.

 

[M4streetshooter]

I'm using a SunPack 383 with no issues at all........I was using an old 283 and never had a problem either, then the members here alerted me to the voltage issues....I panicked and started with the 383.....great setup....don

 

[ZorkiKat]

Dave,

I'm using a V283 with my R-D1s. This 283 came from the last of the production batches (discontinued 2006?). The 283 shares a lot of features with the 285, including trigger voltage, if they were made at the same time.

The really older 283s did have high trigger voltages, but the laters one used lower trigger voltages and are quite safe for modern camera synch contacts.

One way to test the trigger voltage is to attach voltmeter terminals at the flash's contact pins. Firing the flash should give a reading of its trigger voltage value.

And heed the caveat about the R-D1s's flash shoe. A heavy flash like the
283 may not be good for the camera. The shoe is attached with just four tiny screws and a hefty flash might just yank it out.

Jay