Tiny flash unit for Leica M

[Fred Burton]

Isn't the TLA200 TTL only?

 

[FPjohn]

After a bit of google searching, it looks like you should indeed be able to use the TLA200 on other cameras....you might check it out, it's very small, and sounds more like what you were describing in your original post.

Has anyone used it on auto on other than a Contax? I once, long ago, checked the specs and thought it required the camera for full function.(?)

 

[Monz]

I use the Metz 20 BC 6.
Not too big and works well.
--
Monz

 

[ferider]

I'm reading this with interest. I also want a tiny, underpowered flash to go on a rangefinder hotshoe - a CLE in my case (mostly).

I've had good results with the XA + A11 flash + off camera optically triggered flashes, which I often hold in my hand. For this purpose I like the Vivitar DF120 and the Metz CS-2 - both very small and, especially the Metz, capable. But I have no way to trigger them with my M-mount bodies and I dont want to throw anything the size of a tradional hot shoe flash - Vivitar 285 et al - on those bodies.

The CS-2 has both slave and active mode, so you should be able to trigger it on the CLE. Also, it comes with a cable that you can adapt via PC connector to M2/M3/M4.

Roland.

 

[mackigator]

My Metz is the 28 CS-2, optical only.

 

[squirrel$$$bandit]

It looks like you'd have to use it (the tla200) manually, if I'm readin' my innernets right. But people seem to say it does fire on other cameras.

 

[Bruin]

Another vote for the Nikon SB-30...I find the standby mode and wide-angle adapter (17mm coverage) very handy. Works beautifully with my ZI.

 

[presspass]

A little bit bigger than the others, but look at a Vivtar 2800. Two auto stops, bounce head, uses 4 AAs. Either hot shoe or synch cord. Durable, will go out to 40 feet.

 

[Ronald_H]

Ok, I found the Nikon on Amazon UK. The Dutch Nikon site does not list it (anymore).

Then I'll need a hotshoe adapter, found some on the web.

And a PC - Leica M adapter. I have seen one on a recent camera show on a forlorn M... does anyone still sell them new?

 

[pachuco]

A little bit bigger than the others, but look at a Vivtar 2800. Two auto stops, bounce head, uses 4 AAs. Either hot shoe or synch cord. Durable, will go out to 40 feet.

I second this. It is a bit larger but a smaller flash is not any less discreet when it goes off. 😀

 

[Rico]

I'm pretty certain the Contax TLA200 is the wrong choice here. I have the TLA140, TLA280 and big TLA360. The latter has everything--classic auto mode, manual mode with 1-stop settings to 1/16, tilt/swivel, zoom, lots of power--but is big. The TLA140 is just right for an M body, but has no classic auto mode and no manual mode (except 1/1). The TLA200 and TLA140 expect TTL control from a Contax G or RTS body.

 

[payasam]

Ronald-not-Ron, I think I saw the adapter on the B&H site.

 

[swoop]

I was going to recommend a flash but just realized it's hotshoe only.

 

[Ronald_H]

Ok guys, I located everything:

Nikon SB-30 flash > Amazon UK. They deliver quickly and cheaply to the Netherlands, I bought some DVDs from them before.

Edit: The flash only will be shipped inside the UK, but I have located one at a German dealer and ordered.

Flash shoe adapter: In stock at my usual dealer for very little $$$.

PC adapter: The (Dutch) collector I bought my M2 from has one.

How much time would I have spent to get all this if the internet did not exist? 😉