Elinchrom currently tops our best studio lighting kits buyers' guide with its superb D-Lite RX 4/4 To Go kit. Combining quality and versatility at a fair price, it's a great choice if you're starting out in the world of portrait photography.
Now Elinchrom has revamped the top end of its studio flash line-up with the introduction of the brand new ELC range, set to replace the D-Lite RX2, BRX250 and BRX 500.
Available in 125Ws and 500Ws power outputs, both heads can be powered down in 0.1-stop increments to 7 Ws if you only need to add a hint of light. Each also features TTL flash metering for ease of use, plus high speed sync for freezing motion, overpowering ambient light or darkening backgrounds. A smart active cooling system has been implemented to extend flash longevity, and you get direct compatibility with Elinchrom’s extensive range of light modifiers.
• Full Elinchrom ELC 125 & ELC 500 review
The ELC heads also have an Auto-On system that keeps each flash head in standby mode with your previously used flash settings stored. The Manual Lock feature enables a quick switch from TTL to Manual mode without losing exposure settings for quick adjustments or to explore creative effects.
When you're investing a serious sum in high-end studio lighting, it's good to know the flash kit you buy has been engineered to last. ELC flash heads pack Elinchrom's Smart Pro-Active cooling which learns your shooting style and adjusts the internal cooling fan accordingly. It all helps balance effective cooling with the lowest possible amount of fan noise.
Each flash head sports a Quick-Lock bayonet attachment system for fitting light modifiers, plus there's also a bright, daylight-balanced LED modeling lamp to help you sample the final light output as you position each flash head.
The ELC heads are wirelessly triggered by Elinchrom's Skyport radio frequency system which is compatible with 7 camera brands. You also get intuitive control of flash settings from your camera or computer. Even non-Elinchrom units and speedlights can be integrated into the wireless setup via the Elinchrom Skyport Receiver Plus.
Specifications
| Header Cell - Column 0 | ELC 125 | ELC 500 |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 131 Ws/J | 522 Ws/J |
| Power range | 7-131 Ws (5 F-stops) | 7-522 Ws (7 F-stops) |
| Color stability over power range | +/- 150K | +/- 200K |
| Recycling time 230V | 0.06 - 0.45 s | 0.06 - 1.1 s |
| Recycling time 120V | 0.1 - 0.8 s | 0.09 - 1.9 s |
| Dimensions | 23 x 16.7 x 26.3 cm | 28 x 16.7 x 26.3 cm |
| Weight | 2.0 kg / 4.4 lbs | 2.5 kg / 5.5 lbs |
| Header Cell - Column 0 | ELC 125 & ELC 500 |
|---|---|
| Flash Modes | Action on: Faster flash durations Action off: Optimized color temperature |
| LED Modelling lamp | Daylight 20W 92 CRI LED / equivalent to 120W |
| Auto power dumping | Adjusts power settings automatically in real time |
| Skyport (built-in) | 20 frequencies, 4 Groups, TTL and Manual |
| Voltage | Multivoltage: AC 100-240V |
| Umbrella fitting | Centred umbrella fitting 7 – 8 mm |
Pricing
Elinchrom ELC 125 TTL and ELC 500 TTL heads will be available individually at £479 / $619.99 and £699 / $899.99 respectively. Several kits including the new monolights are also being introduced:
- ELC 125 / 125 TTL To Go Set: two ELC 125 heads, two 16cm reflectors and a storage bag – retailing for £959 / $1,239.99.
- ELC 125 / 500 TTL To Go Set: one ELC 125 head, one ELC 500 head, two 16cm reflectors and a storage bag – £1,179 / $1,499.99.
- ELC 500/500 To Go Set: two ELC 500 heads, two 16cm reflectors and a storage bag – £1,399 / $1,599.99.
Read more:
The best photography lighting kits in 2020: for studio, location and video
