The HVL-F32X is nothing special for DSC-F282 Owners
Pros:
Stylish. Neat backlit display. I liked the integrated pulldown diffuser.
Cons:
Does not support TTL as advertised, fires a pre-flash instead. Expensive.
The Bottom Line:
Too expensive for what you get. Compare to the $79 Vivitar 285 or the $69 Sunpak 383, which have the same basic functions.
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Overall Rating:
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Author's Review
I've had my Sony DSC-F828 camera for about 6 months now, and FINALLY the HVL-F32X became available. The HVL-F32X flash is compatible with a number of Sony digicams, but it is advertised as more highly integrated with the upper line DSC-F828, as it communicates through the "advanced" communication hot shoe.
I wanted it for the (supposed) TTL functionality, and to get the flash further away from the lens, since the built-in popup flash on the 828 gives redeye about every time.
The flash arrived from B&H about an hour ago, and already I've decided to return it.
When Sony says TTL, I think it stands for TheyTrulyLie! TTL is supposed to mean Through-The-Lens. That means the CAMERA'S meter should be doing the work. The HVL-F32X does not integrate with the 828 to allow metering through the lens. Instead, it fires a pre-flash to judge how much light it needs. The amount of flash output is being determined by the flash unit, not the camera- just like any other flash you want to look at. Big big disappointment here, this is NOT TTL!!! My little Sunpak 383 does the same thing for less than half the price. If you've ever used a real TTL system before, you'll notice the difference right away.
In Sony's defense, I should say that Auto A mode did give acceptable autoexposure, it's just NOT the same as a TTL system.
The lack of true TTL is what turned me away from this flash, but here's a handful of other complaints:
-The pre-flash on (supposed)TTL Auto A mode induces shutter lag. It pre-flashes, then snaps the shutter, I'd say it takes 1/2 to 3/4 s or so.
-When mounted on the F828, it's STILL not far enough away from the lens to prevent redeye, and the included cable is not even long enough to use on a flash bracket. And the (supposed)TTL "Auto A" mode won't work on this cable anyway. The battery door does not stay closed as well as I'd like.
-The infrared focus overides the matrix system built into the 828.
-the modeling light is really just a burst of quick flashes that only lasts a couple of seconds, it's not a constant light that stays on.
PCNation
