Bowens Bo lite's... any advice?

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Mike_c

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Hello,

I'm currently looking for another two flash heads to compliment my Esprit 500's. I've always used Bowens lights, and have been offered a pair of Bowens Bo Lite's for a rock bottom price.

I'm just wondering if anyone uses these lights, and what you think of them? Are they reliable and still useable? Also, what is the power output of these 1980's relics?
 
Thanks Garry, I had a feeling you'd know something about this.

I've been offered 2x Bo lites, with brollies, stands, grids and barn doors for £100. They appear in good condition and come boxed as new.

They'd be used in addition to my Esprit lights, mainly as hair and background lights.

My thinking is for £100, I couldn't get even near to all of these bits if I was to go out and buy brand new Bowens. Bowens grids alone are probably nearish to £100.

Have to say I am sceptical, but I wonder if £100 is worth a punt. What do you reckon? Also, have any idea what the output would (or should) be?

Many thanks for you help!
 
I don't know about the output, but I think it was on the low side - not that it really matters all that much.

What does matter is that lighting has moved on about as much in that time as cars have, and buying this model 30 years on is a bit like buying a Ford Escort or an Allegro 30 years on - it wasn't a good model when it was new and it won't have improved much with the passage of time...

I doubt whether it can be repaired if it goes wrong, although 'Flash Ted' is the expert and may know better. And you won't be able to get anything in the way of accessories to fit it. I think the pair of lights is probably worth half of the £100 asking price
 
The Bowens Bolite is around 100 watt seconds output, about the same as an old bowens mono 200. they were made for entry level. down side is no spares at all, only full and half power control, no control over the model lamp, fixed reflector. they worked quite well given the cheap price. upside is £ 100.00 for 2 lights with stands and bits is a good price, may be worth a chance. they have no audio bleeper, slow recycle. super bolite was better, more powerfull. 30 volts sync. if you can find 2 x bowens mono 400D/E for the same price, better deal. regards david
 
Thanks for the words of wisdom chaps. Think I'll continue in my search and splash some more cash on something a little newer.

Your advice is much appreciated.
 
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