Lencarta vs Elemental

[norrisphysio]

Thought I would restart this thread following the one by studioworks comparing Lencarta to Interfit. Original thread is here http://www.talkphotography.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=450764

I am looking at basic kits by both, the Smartflash from Lencarta (currently £299.99) http://www.lencarta.com/lighting-store/flash-heads/flash-heads-1/twin-head-mains-powered-starter-kit and the Nano by Elemental (currently £299.00) http://www.studio-flash.com/nanotwin2.html

The Elemental kit includes 1 brolly and 1 softbox as well as a bag and triggers and is on special offer (normally £379) the Lencarta kit has brollies but no softbox, bag or triggers. Both look very similar except that the Elemental has a 75w modeling lamp the Lencarta 150w. The question is, does the power of the modelling lamp make that much difference? I have never used either, but have used Bowens and Elinchrome and I can't say I have ever really noticed the modeling lamp power. Any views about modeling lamp power?

 

[HoppyUK]

Main difference appears to be no cooling fan on the Elemental Nano. May or may not be an issue. Most of the heat comes from the modelling lamp, especially if it's enclosed in a softbox or snoot etc and the head is pointing down, so turn that off if a problem.

BTW, modelling lamp wattage is not a reliable guide to brightness, though most appear to be perfectly adequate. One small drawback of the Smartflash is the modelling lamp is either full on or off, with nothing inbetween. Modelling lamp control on the Nano is not stated, though it's something you would think they'd mention if it was variable/proportional.