Not a long time ago I got Metz 58. After using it for a while I can say that the menu system is not a bad as some people say. And overall I'm very pleased with this unit.
Here are the pros and cons..
Pros
I hope this is useful if you're thinking about getting this flash. Cheers!
Here are the pros and cons..
Pros
- Great build quality and impressive set of features.
- Secondary reflector adds new possibilities for creating a fill light.
- USB connectivity make the flash future proof with firmware updates made by users, not a service center technicians.
- LCD screen is always illuminated when changing flash setting.
- Features a handy low-battery indicator.
- Has no custom function to remember. Everything in the menu is self-explanatory.
- A nice protective carrying pouch and a light stand are included with the flash.
- Not weather sealed.
- Controls are multi-functional. Buttons are assigned to various functions depending on a display state. This can be a matter of taste.
- Menu system can be tricky to use, but it generally works OK.
- "Cold start" is too long (about 2 seconds). "Warm start" saves the deal, though.
- Flash head does not rotate full 360 degrees (300 degrees only).
- Flash head does not lock when tilted, which can present a problem when using some heavy light modifiers.
- LCD screen contrast is lower than on many competitors.
- It takes an extra button click to control the flash: first click lights up the LCD screen, and the second one changes the flash state.
- Switching between wireless mode cannot be done instantly, like with flashes featuring a dedicated wireless mode switch.
I hope this is useful if you're thinking about getting this flash. Cheers!